3View unveils connected-TV Freeview box

3View has unveiled what is claimed to be the UK's first set top box offering access to free-to-air television channels and internet content.

On April 7, the electronics manufacturer will start taking advance orders for its new hybrid Freeview HD receiver, which is priced at £299.

Along with offering all standard definition and high definition channels available on Freeview, the IP-enabled box will also allow users to browse web services, such as Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

According to 3View, all internet content will be accessed in an "easy to use and familiar manner via an interactive on-screen programme guide".

The box also comes pre-loaded with widgets for Facebook and Twitter for users to access the social networks while watching television. More widgets will become available "over time".

Built with half a terabyte of storage, the 3View receiver also works with all common media file formats for sharing pictures, music and video over a home network.

"We tried to keep the user in mind throughout the whole design process by building a product that we would really want to buy and use ourselves," said 3View managing director John Donavan.

"This means we have ended up with a product packed full of TV, internet, video and other media services, and when compared with standalone home media server and storage devices, we think 3View represents excellent value for money."

The new receiver will also support access to the Sky Player web-TV service, following a partnership deal announced last week.