Foxtel IQ3
YOU’RE BUYING MUCH MORE THAN A BOX.
THE FOXTEL IQ3 is a unique beast, as it’s not possible to buy this as a standalone product. It comes as standard with all Foxtel subscriptions, so you’re going to need to buy into the relatively expensive Foxtel ecosystem to get one. While originally released in 2015, continual updates to the software has resulted in a product that doesn’t feel three years old, with a snappy and clean interface that gives Apple a good run for its money.
Despite this box relying on Foxtel’s cable- or satellite-delivered shows, it also includes Wi-Fi to access additional Foxtel IP-based content. This is used for certain new shows, as well as certain past broadcasts, so you can watch the show you missed yesterday. Movie prices are a little steep, at $6.95 for a HD version that you can watch for up to 48 hours; fail to hit play for seven days and it’ll be wiped, with your money refunded.
Most Foxtel live broadcasts are in 1080i, which definitely isn’t as sharp as the 1080p offerings of most channels these days. It can do 1080p, though, provided the source program is at that resolution. It’s one of the easiest boxes to use, with a clean and intuitive interface, a must given the wealth of content available on Foxtel.
However, there’s the issue of overall cost. You’re going to need to subscribe to one of Foxtel’s packages to get this box, and for the most variety and quality, you’re looking at around $60 per month, minimum. Whether that is worth paying depends just how much you love Game of Thrones or Foxtel’s huge range of exclusive sports coverage.