Many months ago, if not a year or so, Sky launched a much under publicised service which allowed you to buy a satellite box from them and a card which gave you free, unsubscribed access to all the free to air/view satellite services. It’s called Freesat.

Today, I learn that the BBC and ITV are to launch a free-to-view satellite TV service to cater for viewers unable to receive Freeview digital coverage, carrying all the BBC and ITV digital TV, interactive and radio services, plus ‘other channels’. The BBC’s Director General said the announcement ‘paved the way’ for nationwide free digital television. They’re calling it Freesat.

The BBC have always owned the Freesat name, but until now have done nothing with it. Personally, I can’t see the point, unless it makes Sky publicise their version. In which case – spot the difference.