GTPL launches hybrid Android set-top box ‘GTPL Genie’

Multi-Service Operator (MSO) GTPL Hathway has silently launched its first-ever hybrid Android set-top box called GTPL Genie in six states across the country. 

GTPL operates in 15 states, however, currently, the GTPL Genie Smart STB will be available only to customers residing in Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Telangana. In upcoming months, the company will expand the availability of these new boxes based on customers’ demand. 

New users in eligible states can book GTPL Genie connections from GTPL’s official website. At the time of booking, users have to select OTT + Royal HD or OTT + Power Plus or OTT + FTA for the next 6 months or 12 months duration. 

The GTPL Genie connection starts at a price of Rs 1,999. Customers must keep their GTPL account active paying a minimum Rs 153 NCF monthly. Basic monthly subscription including OTT apps and FTA channels starts at Rs 459 per month (18% tax additional). 

OTT Subscriptions 

Subscription to 13 OTT apps is included with this box namely Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, YouTube, SonyLIV, Zee5, Voot Select, MX Player, Eros Now, Hungama Play, Epic On, Gaana, Alt Balaji, and Shemaroo Me. 

GTPL Genie Specifications

GTPL Genie is an Android-powered set-top box based on Android TV version 9 manufactured by SEI Robotics. It has Widevine L1 support, VP9, H.264, H.265 (HEVC) video codecs, built-in Chromecast, and Google Assistant. Netflix is not supported on this STB. 

According to Android-TV Guide, it comes with an Amlogic S805X Quad-core 1.2 GHz (ARM Cortex-A53) processor with ARM Mali-450 MP3 GPU paired with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of onboard storage. Bluetooth connectivity is also available and additional supported apps can be downloaded from Google Play Store. 

The remote of this STB supports voice commands powered by Google Assistant and features dedicated buttons to quickly open popular apps like YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and easily switch to Live TV.