Loading ...May 05 2010
Following a prompt from joinfreesat reader James, we have received confirmation from Panasonic that the following schedule is in place for the launch of BBC iPlayer on their Freesat enabled televisions and Blu-ray/DVD receivers:
2010 manufactured Viera televisions: Available already
2009 manufactured Viera televisions: End of July 2010
2008 manufactured Viera televisions: End of September 2010
2010 manufactured Blu-ray/DVD receivers: End of September 2010
2009 manufactured Blu-ray/DVD receivers: October 2010
*the schedule is subject to successful testing and software stability
This will no doubt come as great relief to many Panasonic owners feeling left out by the recent inclusion on so many of the other brands.
May 5th, 2010 at 7:08 pm
I suppose it is better later than never I was going to use my erthenet connection on my xbox I might now decide to reconsider and wait 5 months!!!!!!
John EmersonQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 7:19 pm
Re – LG 42HF7700 iPlayer date
I received the following response from their Customer Service on 22nd April 2010 ;-
“It is highly likely that LG will be doing an update to allow the use of i-player.
Unfortunately, we do not have any exact timings on this as yet, but recommend that you check for updates via our website (www.lge.com) from time to time for this release.
Best regards,
LG Electronics UK Helpdesk
———————————-
LG Customer Services
UK: 0844 847 1400 Ireland: 0818 27 6954
Mon-Fri 9am to 8pm Sat 9am-6pm”
Keith LumsdaineQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
whan will I player and sky player being lauching on freesat bush HD set top boxes please can you let me no i got a bush HD set top box and i will lefter connection it to broadband i am not on broadband will it just come on to my freesat whan it be lauch on to EPG freesat can you reply back thankyou freesat team
kevinQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 8:20 pm
Hi Kevin
Very difficult to answer your recent questions and comments. I wonder whether you know Derek500 – I think he may be able to help you, if he hasn’t already.
If not, please keep plugging away. We are sure to read your posts and respond accordingly.
Regards
Paul S WattsQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
I finally got the same confirmation from Panasonic today after continuing to ask them the question. I was concerned for a while after reading reports that my PZ81 wouldn’t be enabled.
DanQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 8:44 pm
Thank you Panasonic! Its about time!!
PFHQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
Kevin
I notice you can use the shift key to capitalise HD and EPG – well done.
Now try using full stops so your ramblings make sense.
peter piperQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 8:55 pm
@2 Kevin,
BBC iPlayer is already available in Beta. Sky Player will never be available on freesat. You will need broadband to get iPlayer. As you seem to have so many freesat questions i suggest you use a forum such as Digital Spy or AVForums instead of going off-topic on news updates.
@3 Paul S Watts,
LOL, i am sure we all miss derek500′s disprovals of freesat and praise of Sky
C14R4NQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 9:14 pm
Who cares about iPlayer, we want more HD channels! C4 HD, E4 HD, ITV 4 HD(for sports), etc.. freesat HD only has 2 HD channels, and it only had one until about a month ago
AceQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 9:29 pm
@9Ace
Well, actually, if you look at all the numerous and extensive postings, huge numbers of Freesat supporters care about iPlayer and the forthcoming ITV player. Such functionality enhances a great FREE platform. Sure, we would all like additional HD channels and, I believe they will come, in time. Patience is a virtue. But why anyone would want garbage in HD just to add numbers is beyond me.
Hey Ho.
Regards
Paul S WattsQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 9:32 pm
3: are you sure you don’t know Derek500? You make as much sense as he did.
9: very informative and on-topic.
Al CatrazQuote
May 5th, 2010 at 9:35 pm
btw: this is good news for we long suffering and patient panny owners.
Al CatrazQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 12:11 am
11: Al – Maybe we should have added “because I want on demand viewing” to the poll. Then we’d really see how ‘on topic’ (I think you’re joshing there) Ace’s post is.
jasonQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 12:44 am
So Dont buy an LG TV!
Also my friend has now invested in a FreeView HD box for recording, just because of the CH4HD issue, he said to me that there had been so many promises and nod, nod, wink, wink, it may be coming, but if the past is any thing to go by, than it could be many months or even years before it comes to FreeSat!!!
OyodiQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 1:29 am
A date at last. At least I now know when my ’81 will get it. Hopefully, they will fix the midnight/1am bug on the epg too…
jmkQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 6:01 am
Isnt it freesats 2 year since launch today? wonder if they have something planned for today, or will the elections be everything…?
wakQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 8:33 am
Great news, BUT how do i find out when my JUST PURCHASED 42 inch Panasonic Viera, with built in freesat. Is manufactured.
The Iplayer certainly not avalbe on this PC, So have I purchased an OLD PC…. ???? I assume it will appear under the “VIERA CAST BUTTON on the remote. ????
John MQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 9:06 am
I think I’m getting a bit weepy. (sniff). It’s been a long time coming.
Ian HQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 9:55 am
@ John M
iPlayer comes through the red button, not VieraCast. If your new Panny is a 2010 model it should already be iPlayer enabled. You can tell what model year it is by the product number.
Make sure you have a cable from your internet router to the ethernet socket on your tv. Go to a bbc channel (not CBBC) and press red button. I think IPlayer is on 5001, but it should be easy to find.
SpdrntQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 10:45 am
As John Emerson said at the top…I suppose it is better later than never …!!!!!!
However the performance of Panasonic still leaves me unimpressed and although I think they are basically good products this is not enough these days as you need to know there is reliable support, particularly for firmware/software fixes and developments, available in a timely manner.
Would I buy more Panasonics products after this…????
Mike
MikeAQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 11:31 am
I agree with MikeA (@20). Panasonic’s support here is so disappointing, especially for the early adoptors who have to wait another five months. Nice to hear that they with will be introducing iPlayer functionality, but to be honest I’ll believe it if/when it arrives.
DavidQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
Q. Which freesat products can receive BBC iPlayer?
A. BBC iPlayer will roll out across all existing freesat HD receivers over time. So if you already have a freesat HD box, freesat+ box, or freesat HD TV there’s no need to buy new equipment.
taken from http://www.freesat.co.uk/index.php?page=iPlayer.WhatYouNeedProduct
so what does that mean for LG LF7700 owners ?
Looks like mine will be returned for a full refund !
lgb2100Quote
May 6th, 2010 at 2:16 pm
We were initially told by LGE that they had no plans to launch iPlayer, but they have since corrected us following this news article to say it is being developed, so who knows!
adminQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 2:36 pm
A relief yes, but still a disappointment.
I wonder how they can justify such a protracted development time. It’s not like the iPlayer was an unexpected addition to Freesat: Panasonic reps were telling retailers about this when the first Freesat HD TVs were announced.
And considering other manufacturers have managed to develop compatible firmware in much shorter time frames, you have to ask what have Panasonic being doing for the past few years?!
However, better late than never – unless anyone was looking forward to demanding a 2010 model, as a replacement
Brian DamageQuote
May 6th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
As Ace says above Freesat needs more HD content to enable it to keep market share, without this people are going to move to other providers to get this. I did just this as got fed up waiting for Freesat HD Content, not too bothered about IPlayer as got a PS3 for that
SpudQuote
May 7th, 2010 at 9:21 pm
@Spud – it will come, just be patient!
I noticed Food Network HD received an Ofcom licence this week. Ok, maybe not what you are looking for but it’s HD content none the less and is step in the right direction for more HD content.
Great news on the Panny iPlayer update, I’ve been looking forward to this for a while. Presumably if ITV Player launches in the summer, then if before my 2009 model gets it’s update then I’ll have both iPlayer and ITV Player together?
NeilQuote
May 8th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
@Neil.
Of course! That’s why Panasonic have taken SO LONG to catch up with their competitors’ iPlayer support: secretly they’ve been working on ITVPlayer support at the same time!
Hmm… Call me a cynic, but I’d find that hard to believe.
Brian DamageQuote
May 11th, 2010 at 8:27 pm
For what it’s worth, I bought a Viera last week and was dissappointed that bbc iplayer was not on Vieracast. It was not until I looked at this website that I realised it was there all the time on the BBC redbutton! No one seems to tell you this!
Terry WallisQuote
May 13th, 2010 at 11:42 am
If I had to buy another TV, I would buy one that gives Internet access. That way you would have access to ITV Player, 4OD, you tube, Blink Box etc. If I had some spare cash I would be tempted to build a multimedia PC with a HDMI output on the video card.
It has occurred to me that there could be a market for a Freesat box with Internet browsing capacity. Provided it was compatible with the majority of video standards unlike the Nentendo Wii I would be interested.
Kevin Ver1Quote
May 18th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
Well it still doesn’t impress me that as one of the first buyers of a Panasonic Freesat TV in 2008, I am getting iPlayer last.
I am looking at a 3D TV. But given this track record, I am unlikely to be an early adoptor of Panasonic this time, only to find that inevitable upgrades and fixes required are available next year on new 2011 sets (at half today’s price too), whereas I will still be waiting for them to fix my 2010 set in 2013, on this basis.
Poor show Panasonic. Look after your early adoptors first, who pay you the highest price.
LawrenceQuote
May 19th, 2010 at 12:03 am
Whilst I can understand folks being unhappy with the slow progress that Panasonic have taken with updating the software on their early Freesat TVs, I must say that I am very pleased indeed with my Panasonic TV. My set does not have an integral Freesat receiver but it works very well with my Freesat Box. The picture quality is exceptional and the sound is very good for a TV.
It is easily the best TV I have had and I would not hesitate to consider buying another Panasonic in the future.
Kevin Ver1Quote
May 22nd, 2010 at 10:19 am
How do I find the Mfg date of my Panasonic Freesat TV
DavidQuote
June 18th, 2010 at 4:26 am
Will these versions of iPlayer EVER move from BETA and begin to offer RADIO?
ABC
aybeeseaaQuote
July 25th, 2010 at 10:13 am
Well it’s nearly the end of July – still no news on the DTG website about the latest firmware.
JustinQuote
July 26th, 2010 at 10:23 am
come on panasonic – time is ticking…
Al CatrazQuote
July 28th, 2010 at 1:04 am
Well I just accidentally stumbled over this iPlayer beta facility an hour ago whilst looking for the newspaper review screen under the red button on my brand new Panasonic TV (FreeSat HD/Freeview HD) which had perforce been “temporarily” wired into my router to test out the woeful Viera Cast offerings. [The Panny wifi dongle should arrive shortly.]
It plays perfectly direct to my Panasonic in higher quality and looks just like a regular broadcast programme (in my case Monday’s Newsnight). For some reason tonight’s Newsnight is not yet available.
Very impressed BBC (and Panasonic).
And only a day after I organised the adaptations to mirror my MacBook Pro to the TV via HDMI for amongst other things, you-guessed-it BBC iPlayer.
Simon GardnerQuote
July 28th, 2010 at 8:11 am
Which model have you got Simon? On my G15 it’s still not available and no software update yet according to the DTG or the scan on the TV…
JustinQuote
July 29th, 2010 at 11:28 am
just rang panasonicup and was told in the next few weeks it should be up and running!!! and if it wasnt to ring them back straight away. why i do not know useless b……………..
danoQuote
July 29th, 2010 at 5:43 pm
See we are still playing catch up with other TV’s, come on Panasonic pull your finger out if you can get your 2010 TV’s up and running how hard can it be to sort the software for a 2009 one?.
And Dano you should know by now that when they say a few weeks it means they have no idea when it will be ready
NickQuote
July 30th, 2010 at 9:39 am
Panny may make top quality kit but their customer support is an absolute disgrace.
It can only be a small part of their huge annual budget, and with a little more investment in this area they would vastly improve their sales of new equipment to existing customers.
There is no way I would recommend panasonic to friends and family based on current performance.
Al CatrazQuote
July 30th, 2010 at 1:41 pm
I gave them a call today (last business day of July) to be told that it definitely isnt happening in July and that there is no replacement date. The chap went to lenghts to say that it would happen but he couldnt say when.
What can you say?
Makes me rather annoyed that I’ve bought 3 of their flat screen freesat tellies.
GavQuote
July 30th, 2010 at 2:41 pm
Really disappointing – their website still says ‘end of July’ : http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/Support/Product+FAQs/3580816/index.html#anker_3580818
SarahQuote
July 30th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
Sony got thier update to thier entire range in January. My G10B wasnt cheap. These things run Linux, if Panasonic cant be bothered to support thier own products why dont they open it up to the community?
The manual clearly says “Ethernet Port for future iPlayer support.”. I would never buy a Panasonic again.
JohnQuote
July 30th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
What a con. Panasonic are trading under false pretences.
All this rubbish about countdown to the olympics and 3d.
It’s about time they walked before they try and run after new things.
This is the last time they get my money, and have you seen the price of there latest Blueray/recorder/player/freesat/PVR even the tuners on that won’t get Iplayer.
Looks like I’ll be heading Humax’s way for a Freesat HD PVR.
PeterQuote
July 30th, 2010 at 5:04 pm
I’ve also just spoken to Panasonic customer services re the roll-out to 2009 sets.
The person I spoke to said Panasonic did not want to roll out the beta version of iplayer as they did not want to roll out “trial” software with reported “poor resolution, limited channels and freezing” and then have to do another software update latter on to correct it.
They are therefore waiting for a “release version” of iplayer for Freesat rather than a beta. The 2009 sets will be updated when this is made available to Panasonic.
Don’t know if this is rubbish, but it sounds plausible.
GarethQuote
August 2nd, 2010 at 10:18 am
Her we are in August 2010, Panasonic has tsill not updated the software for 2009 sets to use i-player, someone is pulling the wool over our eyes. Is it the BBC, or Panasonic?
Wouldn’t it be better for Panasonic to release what they had (if they have any software) and release an upgrded version when it is fully regression tested with iplayer?. iplayer works well when using a computer, why shouldn’t it work through a modem to a televison? The TV only has to display the iplayer web page and then activate the hyperlink to stream the programme to the TV for decoding etc. In summary most of the processing is done within the TV, the BBC bit of it works. Come on Panasonic, your reputation is being severely tarnished and yet you are trying to get on the 3D TV bandwaggon. One challenge at a time would be preferbly from a customers point of view. An apology for the continual delays and a frim timetable with updates as to when the update is going to happen is well within the bounds of any TRULY customer focussed organisation.
Mike ArnoldQuote
August 2nd, 2010 at 11:16 pm
Yawn, hurry up Panasonic!!!
MarkdjQuote
August 3rd, 2010 at 12:40 am
Well I suppose it comes down to the good ole incentive MONEY
You have already paid for a nice new market leading (at the time) Panasonic “Freesat” TV. So where is the motivation for Panasonic to update, upgrade, or err, “up” something else for older equipment when they have already received the dosh? This is apparent from the (LOL) “Rollout schedule”. The newer models, they are still trying to shift, are being updated first, then follows the older ones. Of course this is all subject to “successful testing and software stability”.
What is the betting my software version is not stable or upgradable and I will have to hand over more cash and buy a new TV, so I can watch a streaming web site of TV repeats
Come on Panasonic…. Did I mention market leader somewhere!!!
JohnQuote
August 3rd, 2010 at 4:33 pm
Panasonic’s PR have told me the following:
adminQuote
August 4th, 2010 at 12:19 pm
panny site (42:Sarah) has been updated:
“Unfortunately the planned update for the BBC iplayer service for Panasonic Freesat televisions and Diga Blu-ray recorders has been delayed. We sincerely apologise for this delay but stress that this is due to further testing being required to ensure that it meets Panasonic’s high production standards. We thank you for your patience in this matter”
Al CatrazQuote
August 4th, 2010 at 12:45 pm
I bought my Panny (42V10) last Spring, in part based on the promise that I could use iPlayer.
Still nothing.
Hurry up! Nobody cares about 3D – do they?! Maybe 1 in 100 might, compared to probably 99 in 100 who would use iPlayer.
It may be time to trade in for a Sony…..
SteveWQuote
August 5th, 2010 at 5:18 pm
Why not release the Beta version and let us chip in comments? At least that would keep us all quiet. I suppose they reckon that most people with the 2009 models won’t realise the update is in the pipeline, so won’t complain (but would complain if a jumpy version came out now).
Matthew WillsQuote
August 5th, 2010 at 7:26 pm
I have a Panny G10B and very Upset about lack of BBC i Player. maybe we should have a Facebook campaign or a come on panny web site. shame them into action …
Dorian MQuote
August 5th, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Quote panny site:
“Unfortunately the planned update for the BBC iplayer service for Panasonic Freesat televisions ….. has been delayed. We sincerely apologise for this delay but stress that this is due to further testing being required to ensure that it meets Panasonic’s high production standards …..”
Interesting! but “high production standards” haven’t stopped them shipping their current models with iplayer fully up and running and, without which, potential sales would no doubt drain away to the competition and that would never do, would it?
Ed SQuote
August 6th, 2010 at 3:57 pm
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Panasonic-Suckz/140396505994061
Let the flaming begin….
Cmon Panasonic, hear our prayer !
John GQuote
August 8th, 2010 at 11:17 am
@ # Justin Says:- July 28th, 2010 at 8:11 am
“Which model have you got Simon?”
It’s a hard-to get Panasonic TXL32D28BS – Freesat HD/Freeview HD. If that helps. I have noticed the iPlayer option disappears every now and again but I’m assuming that’s the “beta” aspect…
[So in such cases I revert to mirroring iPlayer to the screen from my MacBook Pro which works fine.]
I’ve stopped using the direct Ethernet cable to the TV which was hugely inconvenient and am using the Panasonic wi-fi dongle which works just fine – even with my ancient router (which Panasonic tech support were dubious about). Can’t think why on a £1000 32 inch telly the wi-fi wasn’t built in. Humph.
Simon GardnerQuote
August 8th, 2010 at 5:12 pm
Ah, that makes sense Simon, it’s a 2010 model
The 2010 firmware for iPlayer has been around for a while now.
JustinQuote
August 9th, 2010 at 9:02 pm
Further use of the iPlayer beta throws up a problem which wasn’t at first apparent. If you pause/restart or use the forward arrow, the voice and picture go out of synch. Repeated use of pause/play can usually force it back into synch.
Simon GardnerQuote
August 9th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
I’m guessing that’s down to it still being in Beta?!?
JustinQuote
August 12th, 2010 at 7:40 pm
Anynews on the iplayer chaps?
DanoQuote
August 13th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
Dano: Re your query of 12 August.
See thread at: http://www.avforums.com/forums/plasma-tvs/1288763-iplayer-via-panasonic-g10-lan-port-possible.html
“kungfool
New Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Brighton
Just called Panasonic customer support to ask when iPlayer would be coming for my 42″ G10.
They acknowledged that there had been a ‘few delays’, but said that they have a new confirmed date of 7th September, with some test accounts rolling out on 26th August. He seemed very definite about the 7th… But who knows for sure? Seems to me that there’s a very short gap between the testing starting and the final update being released. If any problems come up, they’re going to need longer than a few working days to sort it out”.
We can but hope!
Ed
Ed S.Quote
August 14th, 2010 at 3:48 pm
Based on that – best to keep our fingers crossed then – although probably best not to hold your breath either
JustinQuote
August 23rd, 2010 at 3:12 pm
This may sound like a silly question but how are these software updates actually rolled out?
JDTQuote
August 24th, 2010 at 1:49 am
Updates sent via “Over-air downloads”:
http://www.dtg.org.uk/industry/download_schedule.php
Sent via satellite DVB-S (in the case of Freesat) or terrestrial DVB-T / T2 in the case of Freeview.
Basically you’ll get a message popup on screen telling you that an update is available and asking if you’d like to download it.
Some manufacturers also provid direct downloads from their web-sites. Whilst this is useful if you miss the window in which the update was broadcast, the installation method might involve using a serial port or USB pen drive to copy the software to your TV.
Brian DamageQuote
August 24th, 2010 at 7:18 am
Only 2days to go for the supposed update!!!! Do you think holding my breath is a good idea?
DanoQuote
August 24th, 2010 at 3:43 pm
Dano:
Not for that long. You could do yourself a mischief.
Ed S.Quote
August 26th, 2010 at 9:18 am
Well its the 26th and still no i player, tried updating pana software nothing tru to form getting bored now my love for all things panny is waining.
Dorian MQuote
August 26th, 2010 at 11:31 am
Still the same message on the Panasonic site:
“2009 and 2008 Models
Unfortunately the planned update for the BBC iplayer service for Panasonic Freesat televisions and Diga Blu-ray recorders has been delayed.”
http://panasonicuk.epticahosting.com/selfpanasonicuk/template.do?id=650
Brian DamageQuote
August 31st, 2010 at 3:10 pm
Good news – started up Viera Cast on my G15 today and I was prompted to update the software to version 2.103.
I now have BBC iPlayer (Beta) on my TV (via the red button on BBC1 Freesat).
I’ve only had time to play 2 minutes of content so far – (“Who Do You Think You Are, HD version). Worked ok.
Hurrah!
GarethQuote
August 31st, 2010 at 4:05 pm
Slight correction to my previous post – watched SD content, not HD – but pq quite acceptable on my 46 inch screen.
GarethQuote
August 31st, 2010 at 9:24 pm
I can also confirm this also works on my G15 as Gareth points out the update is through viera cast. All seems to be working and looking ok!
PaulosQuote
August 31st, 2010 at 10:40 pm
Yup, my V10 has also received the update through me clicking on viera cast tonight. The update took abaut 5 mins in all. Only watched the beginning of a couple of progs. and all seems fine so far. Picture quality is very acceptable, especially using high quality mode. The interface is good but the pause, rewind/fast forward function is ok at best. About time Panasonic!!
Strange how you have to go to BBC1 and press the red button etc. rather than get access through Viera cast. I wonder if that will change in the final release?
DaveQuote
August 31st, 2010 at 10:43 pm
@Dave
It is likely that it will remain available via the red button on BBC. Suspect that if Panasonic want it available via VieraCast, they will need to set up an agreement direct.
adminQuote
August 31st, 2010 at 11:53 pm
My G10 does not have Viera cast and when I try a normal software update I am told the software is up to date!
bobQuote
September 1st, 2010 at 12:10 pm
@bob
Like you, I have the G10 without VieraCast.
I fully expect the update to become available via the red button from 7 until 13 September. See posting No 127 here:-
http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=1230456&page=6
Ed SQuote
September 2nd, 2010 at 8:43 am
Got the update via Viera Cast and is now up and running on my G15! It took about 10 mins to update, and then had to reboot the tv. It works well – not quite as good quality as HD, but definitely good enough for the occasional catch-up of missed programmes.
Unfortunately doesn’t work via Viera Cast, only via the red button, so now I have to decide whether it’s worth getting a new satellite cable to have freesat setup permanently (currently have only 2 which go to the Sky+ HD box – bit fiddly to change each time) and sorting out internet for the TV (maybe via powerlines)…
SarahQuote
September 2nd, 2010 at 10:37 pm
@Sarah
Yes, I have 3 cables in total coming from my sat dish (2 to the recorder with 2 tuners and, and the other direct to the TV). In my opinion, it is worth doing this because you can watch one channel whilst recording 2 others. Plus, you’ll get the red button iplayer think working permenantly
By the way, if I were you I’d run a hard wired ethernet cable from your Router to your TV if at all possible. It’s cheaper and more reliable.
DaveQuote
September 3rd, 2010 at 1:12 pm
@Dave
Thanks for the advice! Good point – I hadn’t thought that by having 3 cables, as well as having iPlayer working permanently, it would also mean I could watch freesat whilst recording 2 other programmes on Sky.
Hmmm… maybe I’m expecting too much from powerlines… Unfortunately, I don’t think I’ll be able to setup a permanent ethernet cable to the tv without a lot of hassle (laminate flooring etc) – I tested the iPlayer out by running a cable across the living room
)
SarahQuote
September 3rd, 2010 at 11:05 pm
@Sarah
I had the same problem – new laminate floor and all that. All down to the fact that I didn’t plan properly
So I wired my ethernet cable outside in some small plastic ducting from B&Q. I can hardly notice it while sitting in watching my iplayer whilst sipping a quality red wine 
But if you can’t get a direct cable then I’m sure a couple of powwerlines will do you just fine.
I’m waiting for ITV player now !!! Come on ITVr, Freesat & Panny!!!
DaveQuote
September 5th, 2010 at 9:57 am
Prompted to update my 42V10B to software version 2.103 last night via viera cast. all went as it is supposed to but now I have a red button that, when pressed gives an error message ‘due to a technical problem, we are unable to carry out your request at this time’. No hint of iPlayer for me and no other red button services either! anyone else had this?
ianQuote
September 6th, 2010 at 9:16 pm
from admin: please don’t swear on the site, this is a family show!
John GQuote
September 6th, 2010 at 9:32 pm
just about to check update have panny geeks been doing the deed or playing games instead of working !!
Dorian MQuote
September 7th, 2010 at 8:21 am
Wasn’t there bout half an hour ago !!!
DanoQuote
September 7th, 2010 at 9:25 am
Panasonic G10B Owners…
According to DTG we should be good-to-go at 10am today.
http://www.dtg.org.uk/industry/download_schedule.php
John GQuote
September 7th, 2010 at 10:39 am
Nope….
John GQuote
September 7th, 2010 at 12:02 pm
Yeah ! My G10B is iPlayer-tastic !
Update took around 15 minutes. TV resets itself a couple of times.
Lovely !
John GQuote
September 7th, 2010 at 12:08 pm
My 37g10B has just had the software update, took about 15 minutes in total. Picture quality very good, better increase our download limit.
David MQuote
September 7th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
So what’s the updated software version now that iplayer is working?
DanoQuote
September 7th, 2010 at 4:37 pm
The software version is v1.617, the DTG “over the air ” download schedule is here http://www.dtg.org.uk/industry/download_schedule.php
David MQuote
September 8th, 2010 at 7:47 am
OMG it downloaded and it is working…well done. gold star
Dorian MQuote
September 8th, 2010 at 11:16 am
Brilliant!
PeterQuote
September 9th, 2010 at 9:20 pm
Excellent, my 37G10 (2009) updated today to v1.617, it was available over the air, but I did it via the LAN connection and the internet. Maybe a 12 minute download and a 5 minute install and initialisation period.
Graham LQuote
September 13th, 2010 at 8:14 pm
We have the Panasonic freesat recorder blu-ray player when is that going to get the BBC I player. All these responses but nothing concrete.
TedQuote
September 18th, 2010 at 1:30 am
From http://www.freesat.co.uk:
“Panasonic G15 2009 models will receive the software update from 20th September
Panasonic 2009 freesat+ Blu-Ray players/recorders tbc
Panasonic 2008 TVs tbc
Sagem HD: tbc”
Brian DamageQuote
September 29th, 2010 at 8:33 am
Not holding my breath !! I’ve got the first Panny freesat TV (TX32LZD81) bought late 2008.
DaveQuote
September 29th, 2010 at 9:35 am
Update. Just spoken with Panasonic helpdesk. Once beta testing is completed on the current freesat models then the older 2008 LCD’s will receive their software updates (OTA). Expected within next 4 weeks.
DaveQuote
October 1st, 2010 at 4:19 pm
My DMR-BS850 Twin Tuner & Blu Ray recorder is, as of 1st October still wihtout iPlayer, as is my TH-42PZ81B.
Knew I should have waited for Sony to being out Freesat equipment. Yet again I’ve been stung by being an early adopter.
Not so sure I’ll be so Panasonic based in my next round of AV upgrades
TomQuote
October 12th, 2010 at 9:36 am
so annoyed with Panasonic, I feel like I live in a Pani house from phones to microwaves to several TVs, camcorders etc. and its so annoying that many of the other manufacturers have iplayer and pani is still messing about. Just release it for the 2009 and 2008 TVs even if its not perfect better to have it or have we just been forgotten about.
About to buy another TV am looking at LG or Samsung this time around.
DavidQuote
October 13th, 2010 at 10:23 pm
I don’t understand why theres so much fuss. This is still shown as beta on the freesat site. That means we are all early adopters of technology that will come into the mainstream in due course.
I’m waiting, I know I could go and buy a Humax and get the service now, but I do have iPlayer on my PC so I use that until it’s available.
Alternatively buy an XBox or a media PC and plug that in if you are really desperate to see it working.
I think the bigger question is when everyone has this, does the network have enough bandwidth to give us all HD quality streamed catch up TV????
Also once everyones got BBC’s player, then the moaning will start as to where the ITV player is, oh and then channel 4 etc etc. There will always be something new just over the horizon that some of us don’t have yet.
For my part as a last thought, I have absolutely no intention of going 3D, I’ve seen it and it’s just a gimmick. Keep the HD channels coming first, catchup TV second, and when we’ve all got those, then perhaps some quality programmes might be in order!!!
NeilQuote
October 13th, 2010 at 10:46 pm
@ Neil.
If you’re not bothered, why are you lurking in this thread?! Do you work for Panasonic by any chance?
Panasonic have clearly messed up on this one: they used to be a provider of high quality “early adopter” hardware. I wouldn’t like to say what I think of them now…
This is nothing to do with with the number of HD channels of Freesat, ITV player or 4oD. This is all about having functionality which was promised a long time ago, and which Panasonic’s competitors have already delivered. I suspect the only reason the iPlayer is officially still a Beta is because of these ongoing delays.
Brian DamageQuote
October 14th, 2010 at 8:44 pm
@Neil
It may be still a “beta test” service – but what is a reasonable length of time for something to be in “beta” testing and what is a “beta” test?
As the Freesat iPlayer beta test started in December 2009, it is rapidly approaching a whole year and I believe the title of “beta test” is, at best, misleading!
Most beta tests last for a few weeks to a few months for really complex software (such as a new version of Windows – Vista beta test ran between July 2005 {Beta 1} and October 2006 {final release}) and they involve specific beta testers who would be informed in advance of the duration of the beta testing period and be expected to provide appropriate feedback on the product.
This “beta test” appears to be a phased roll-out of a promised capability that should have been built in to Freesat platforms from the outset!
Freesat need to declare a date when the “beta test” will end and if suppliers cannot meet this date for delivery of a promised capability / service, should accept responsibility for refund / replacement / alternative hardware supply (as has already been done by LG).
AndyQuote
October 15th, 2010 at 10:04 pm
I notice that Panasonic have updated their Customer (Dis)Service page with the following:
”
2010 Models – Iplayer Supported
2009 and 2008 Models
I am pleased to confirm the following planned schedule for the update of the BBC iPlayer service on 2009 Panasonic Freesat televisions.
G15 and V10 plasma: 13-20th October
V10 LCD: 20-27th October
Z1: 27th October – 3rd November
G10: 3rd November
A message will appear on the screen ‘A new software version has been found’. You will then need to follow the on-screen prompts.
To clarify, to receive this service you will require a Freesat satellite and broadband connection to the TV.
Please be aware this is subject to change without prior notice.”
Brian DamageQuote
October 16th, 2010 at 6:45 pm
From which we can safely assume that there won’t be an upgrade for 2008 models until Nov 10 2010 at the very earliest… I must admit, if they’d told me this when I bought my Panny, I probably wouldn’t have bought it at all. I was expecting an update in 2009. Not hoping that we might get an update some time before 2011.
Brian DamageQuote
October 18th, 2010 at 7:14 pm
I note the Panasonic information referenced by @102 (see: http://www.panasonic.co.uk/html/en_GB/Support/Product+FAQs/3580816/index.html#anker_3580818) states “2009 and 2008 Models” but makes no other mention for 2008 models – so am still left totally in the dark as to when they will resolve this long-standing problem?
I feel that to call the i-Player s “Beta” service since last Christmas is also totally wrong of Freesat as most Beta tests only last for a few months at most and this one is rapidly heading for it’s first birthday!
Come on Freesat and Panasonic – it cant be that difficult to deliver what was planned for when the service was first developed?
AndyQuote
October 29th, 2010 at 12:56 pm
So, how do us disgruntled 2008 model owners take further action on this?
It looks increasingly likely we might never get iPlayer support, or that Panasonic will drag it out with constant “soon” messages until all our 5 year warranties have expired!
Perhaps some joint action on our parts might get them to resolve it, one way or the other.
LawrenceQuote
October 30th, 2010 at 5:45 pm
As a 2008 model owner I am really disappointed at Panasonic dragging their heels over the software update of Freesat TVs for the iplayer. I suggest that the best form of protest is to avoid any purchase of a Panasonic product in the future. I for one will be looking at other manufactures when the inevitable upgrade to 3D comes along.
Brian MQuote
October 31st, 2010 at 12:01 am
Right with you there Brain M I will probably not buy a Pani again especially when it was mentioned years ago that this was going to be an option hence part of my reason for purchase. I now have a 50″ PZ81 and a 42″ G10 neither of which have iPlayer.
David HQuote
November 1st, 2010 at 5:15 pm
I also have a PZ81 and, like so many other Panny owners, am totally pee-ed off with Panasonic’s handling of the iPlayer software update. I can’t remember the last time I bought any other make in TV / VCR/ Blu Ray etc. I now cannot imagine ever buying Panasonic again, after this iPlayer fiasco. Maybe the same people who originally gave our various products 5 star ratings could do an after sales rating now. How many stars would other Panny owners in our position give, taking into account the customer service we have all received? A definite date for an update is long overdue!
1 star from me.
Jim PQuote
November 4th, 2010 at 7:20 pm
It is my belief that the BBC need to remove the “beta” tag from the Freesat version of iPlayer – and hopefully shame Panasonic (and others) into taking this abysmally poor level of customer service seriously. I have just received an e-mail from Freesat – see below – informing me that this is a BBC issue and I would urge every one who is affected by this issue to raise a complaint with the BBC!
—————
“This would be an question for the BBC as it is a service provided by them. The BBC can be contacted on 03700 100 222 or through their website at http://www.bbc.co.uk”
andyQuote
November 6th, 2010 at 6:49 am
Many thanks to all of you on this thread, as an ’08 Panasonic TV owner this continues to be the only source of any reliable information on this matter.
As with everything customer loyalty counts for nothing now, it is clear all of Panasonic’s development resource is looking forward not back and I fear that my ’08 TV, which of course I, like everyone else here paid a premium for as it was new to market at the time may never see iplayer & ITV’s equivalent.
That I nearly jumped in and purchased the bluray recorder but didn’t as I mused at the time that the price needed to come down (& it has by 30%!) is my only positive in this affair, it too awaits the iplayer upgrade. I’d be hopping if I had!!
I have tried to contact Panasonic but get no response, freesat seem to be listing our TV’s solely as a marketing exercise to justify themselves, so I guess I’m out of options and like many here will desert the Panasonic brand when making future purchasing decisions.
EdQuote
November 7th, 2010 at 9:58 am
I am going to move to Sony on my next purchase
JohnQuote
November 10th, 2010 at 8:14 pm
So much for my bluray recorder getting it’s upgrade by the end of October. Cheers guys at Panasonic, after spending shed loads of cash on my freeway bluray recorder it appears that we early uptakers are not worth as much to you as those that buy the cheaper product years later.
Richard DavisQuote
November 10th, 2010 at 8:16 pm
I hate predictive text. * Freesat *
Richard DavisQuote
November 11th, 2010 at 11:18 am
I would like to echo the comments here in that I too am an early adopter of the 1st Panasonic Freesat TV in 2008 and have been waiting, I think patiently for the software upgrade to enable iPlayer. The upgraded date of “October 2010″ seemed at the time a very long way off and now it has come and passed by with no action visible by Panasonic and no information forthcoming I feel very let down.
I upgraded my AV kit from Sony to Panasonic at that time but unless there is some action soon I will trash the lot and happily find another manufacturer. Probably Sony again as that kit was great. Come on Panasonic.
Matthew ClaytonQuote
November 11th, 2010 at 9:06 pm
Another early adopter (2008) here – surely we should have been at the front of the queue when it came to enabling iplayer? I too have tried all known means of contacting Panasonic with zero confirmation/response. Over the years i have become quite loyal to Panasonic for household products (dvd player, camera, DECT phone) as i find them reliable and decent value for money. With this freesat debacle on my TV i certainly wont be giving them anymore of my money. I might only be one customer but clearly there are others who are thouroughly demoralised and their reputation has nose-dived in my opinion.Well done Panasonic.
ScottQuote
November 15th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
I would urge all 2008 Panasonic owners to put pressure on Panasonic, Freesat and the BBC to provide the service that was promised when Freesat was launched!
the latest e-mail I’ve had back from BBC iPlayer (who are saying that the delay is Panasonic’s fault) is below. looking at all the system providers, it appears that Panasonic (and LG – although they have provided an alternative) are well behind the rest:
Thank you for contacting the BBC iPlayer support team.
I understand that you’re waiting to access BBC iPlayer content via your 2008 Panasonic TV.
We appreciate your feedback and we’ve only tested iPlayer on the PANASONIC Freesat TVs: 2009 and 2010 models and are unable to give support for untested products. I’ve included a link below which may be of some interest:
http://iplayerhelp.external.bbc.co.uk/help/where_to_get_iplayer/television/
Nevertheless, I have fully registered your comments on this issue. They have been made available to those responsible for maintaining the BBC iPlayer service.
Thanks again for contacting the BBC iPlayer support team.
AndyQuote
November 16th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
response from Panasonic dated 1st Nov – i can only suggest we bombard them with requests for the provision of this overdue service via e-mail & phone.
ISSUE RESOLUTION: Dear Mr. Thomas,
Thank you for your e-mail enquiry.
In response, the update for the BBC iplayer for the 2008 Freesat televisions should be available soon. Unfortunately Panasonic do not have the definite dates for this at present, but your TV should automatically detect the update when it is released.
To clarify, to receive this service you will require a Freesat satellite and broadband connection to the TV.
We thank you for your patience in this matter. If you should have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0844 844 3852 or email us using the following email address:
customer.care@panasonic.co.uk
Kind Regards,
Chris Swatridge
Customer Communications Advisor
Panasonic UK Ltd
PUK (Registered Number 01069148 England) Registered Office: Panasonic UK Ltd, Willoughby Road, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 8FP
pete thomasQuote
November 16th, 2010 at 11:12 pm
An update from the Panasonic site (not much use) but maybe they’re trying:
“Unfortunately, the planned update for the BBC iplayer service for Panasonic Freesat G10 Viera televisions has been slightly delayed. This is due to the fact that further software has been required in order to cater for an additional service implemented by the BBC. This service is known as copyright protection system (CPS) on BBC iplayer material. The addition of this software is required to ensure on-going full functionality of the BBC iPlayer.
Panasonic sincerely apologises for the delay, but it is anticipated that the update will be available from the 11th November. However, again, this is subject to change.
We thank you for your patience in this matter.
The BBC iPlayer service (Beta version) for 2009 Panasonic Freesat televisions has been released on Viera Cast. The 2009 televisions with the Viera Cast feature can access the Viera Cast service to prompt for the download. After successfully updating, the service should be available via the BBC red button service on Freesat.
The update for the BBC iplayer for the 2008 Freesat televisions should be available soon. Unfortunately, Panasonic does not have the definite dates for this at present, however your television should automatically detect the update when it is released.”
Brian DamageQuote
November 20th, 2010 at 8:23 am
My G10 series 42″ has started downloading some new software this morning just waiting to see if its iplayer or not but the PZ81 still saying 1.616 is most up to date. Come on panasonic get this sorted out.
David HQuote
November 30th, 2010 at 11:29 am
Its now 30th November 2010 and my Pany TH-50PZ81B is still awaiting the software update. The whole thing is now turning into a farce. Ringing Panasonic’s customer support line 0844 844 3852 is also a no goer as the sub menu for the correct department is not taking calls. Is there anyone out there who feels as aggrieved as I do over this mater? Are there any legal roads that we could take to force the companies hand over what was promised when we purchased the TV? A shame on panasonic!
Brian MQuote
November 30th, 2010 at 5:02 pm
Brian – as i said @116, I would urge all 2008 Panasonic owners to put pressure on Panasonic, Freesat and the BBC to provide the service that was promised when Freesat was launched – and I have been doing that – but with limited results / poor responses. I’ve also e-mailed Which and Watchdog (no reply so far) and will continue to query Panasonic but I do feel that there is limited scope for further action – other than pursue the retailer (John Lewis in my case) and I have seen a claim from one poster that he received an 80% refund or try the advertising standards authority – for misrepresentation? Any one got any other ideas?
AndyQuote
December 2nd, 2010 at 4:33 pm
According to Matt on the tx-32lzd81 page, Panasonic will not be releasing the update this year! I’m writting my email of complaint to Panasonic right now.
http://www.joinfreesat.co.uk/index.php/televisions/discontinued-tvs/panasonic-tx-32lzd81
Matt: “I spoke to Panasonic a couple of weeks ago. Originally they said it was going to be the end of September 2010 before iPlayer was available on this model, now they are saying early next year”
RichardQuote
December 8th, 2010 at 7:52 pm
as the ASA will only look at adverts under 3 months old, I have now lodged a complaint with Panasonic and John Lewis under the Sale of Goods Act.
I would appreciate it if people would look at my related post regarding access to the teletext Jobsite pages that also rely on web connectivity – See:
http://www.joinfreesat.co.uk/index.php/panasonic-iplayer-update-available-on-2009-freesat-tvs?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+joinfreesat+%28Join+Freesat%29
Many thanks for any replies.
AndyQuote
December 11th, 2010 at 5:59 pm
Have recently purchased a Panasonic with Viera Cast 2010 TV, also purchased the wi-fi dongle but BBCiplayer still does not appear to be available-is this the case?
YvetteQuote
December 12th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
Reply to Yvette @124
As far as I know (but being a 2008 set owner, I can’t be sure), the 2009 and 2010 Panasonic TVs with Viera Cast feature can access the Viera Cast service to prompt for the software download (Viera Cast button on the remote). After successfully updating, the iPlayer service should be available via the BBC red button service on Freesat (not the childrens channels, I think).
Hope this helps?
AndyQuote
December 13th, 2010 at 10:53 pm
Looks like no update until 5th Jan 2011, at the very earliest:
http://www.dtg.org.uk/industry/download_schedule.php
Brian DamageQuote
December 18th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
so iPlayer is now an “official” release – Channel 901 and ITV Player is due for release soon – Channel 903 but Panasonic are still failing to deliver – I await their provision of an “update on this shortly” – after all I’ve only been waiting a year so far and I now know that as the DTG up-date downloads are closed until Jan 5th 2011 – so definitely no Christmas present from Panasonic!
AndyQuote
January 3rd, 2011 at 2:25 pm
I wonder if 903 will work up in Scotland considering the last mess of STV HD not being available etc. and having to add it as ‘other satallite channel’ etc. Any ideas? Where is this iplayer update for the 81′s? Finally got my G10 working though after getting the ethernet cable run from 1 end of the house to the other.
David HQuote
January 3rd, 2011 at 9:24 pm
I have a Panasonic G20B (2010 model) with Viera cast, but watch Freeview HD as I have no dish to receive Freesat. Can anyone tell me whether I should be able to get BBC IPlayer (either via Viera cast, or the red button) on Freeview please? If not now, will it be available sometime soon?? Many thanks.
Graham HQuote
January 5th, 2011 at 12:52 am
@ 129 As I understand it, iPlayer support (or at least stream media support) was part of the Freesat HD spec, and is delivered by means of the Freesat EPG – which you can only get from a satellite feed.
There have been stories about the iPlayer being added to Freeview HD, but I don’t think any definite dates have been announced – and you will almost certainly find yourself in the same position as those of us still waiting for Panasonic to sort out the iPlayer support on Freesat – i.e. you’ll have to wait patiently for it- or as in my case, impatiently!
Brian_DamageQuote
January 5th, 2011 at 12:58 am
Despite various Freeview HD updates being listed for Jan 2011, there’s been no update on the DTG schedule for Freesat
Brian_DamageQuote
January 5th, 2011 at 9:30 pm
Thanks Brian – appreciate the info; now I too am a reluctant member of the disgruntled collective!
Graham HQuote
January 7th, 2011 at 11:11 am
Just phoned Panasonic Telephone support. I have a Panasonic DMR-BS850EB Freesat Blu-ray recorder. They told me that it was unlikely that they would provide Iplayer support as ” it was never designed for it”. They were very dismissive and suggested theiur promised update was only for 2009 TVs. I think this is disgraceful.
JohnQuote
January 8th, 2011 at 6:29 pm
The response John recieved (133) seems to contradict this email from panasonic support, but I too will join the disgrunteled and miss sold gang
From panasonic >>>>>>
ISSUE RESOLUTION: Dear Customer
Thank you for your e-mail enquiry. Firstly, please accept my sincere apologies for the uncharacteristic delay in our response. Due to system failure, we have been unable to provide a response.
In response, I am pleased to announce that the BBC iplayer should be available on Panasonic Freesat televisions and Diga Blu-ray recorders from the following dates (software stability and successful testing permitting):
2009 Viera televisions: end of July 2010
2008 Viera televisions: end of September 2010
2010 Diga models: end of Sept 2010
2009 Diga models: Oct 2010
We thank you for your patience while we have made the software available for these additional features on Panasonic units.
Mike PQuote
January 12th, 2011 at 1:28 pm
Bought my Panasonic from Comet as salesman assured me I could watch I Player through my broadband connection – obviously not, now planning to dump my panasonic and buy a Sony!
StevenQuote
January 24th, 2011 at 4:11 pm
For those like me who have been waiting for over a year for i-player on 850, 750 & 350 DVD recorders I have been advised by Panasonic that they hope to make it available from 14 Feb.2011. Via Global website for download,Network download or OAD via satellite, all on 14 Feb. Here’s hoping!
Colin RyeQuote
January 25th, 2011 at 10:40 pm
Fingers crossed Colin!
Brian_DamageQuote
January 31st, 2011 at 12:13 pm
response below received today – my enquiry was for a 2008 Viera.
i will advise when the promised email advice is received – if I live that long.
ISSUE RESOLUTION: Dear Mr Thomas,
Thank you for your e-mail enquiry.
In response, unfortunately Panasonic are not in a position to fully update you regarding the anticipated time line for the update. However, I can say is that it is still our intention to update these models to support BBC iPlayer.
As the first generation of freesat models introduced in the UK and with the significant added complexity of the integration to an IDTV platform, preparing an upgrade that achieves the correct operational stability has proved extremely difficult. When the product was launched there was no detailed specification in place for this IP based service and it would be fair to say that the completion of the specification has taken far longer than originally envisaged. Only being finalised very recently. Functionality not originally requested by the broadcaster is now mandatory within the specification and has presented enormous challenges to back engineer onto this platform.
I must still state that until we have a fully stable software available it will not be possible to guarantee a download date but please be assured that we are doing everything possible to do so as soon as we can.
I have logged your details and you should be sent an email when a date has been confirmed.
To clarify, to receive this service you will require a Freesat satellite and broadband connection to the TV.
We thank you for your patience in this matter. If you should have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0844 844 3852 or email us using the following email address:
customer.care@panasonic.co.uk
Kind Regards,
Chris Swatridge
Customer Communications Advisor
Panasonic UK Ltd
PUK (Registered Number 01069148 England) Registered Office: Panasonic UK Ltd, Willoughby Road, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 8FP
pete thomasQuote
February 11th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
The latest reply I have had from Panasonic is virtually the same – saying that they “must still state that until we have a fully stable software available it will not be possible to guarantee a download date but please be assured that we are doing everything possible to do so as soon as we can”. I have now notified them that, following advice from Consumer Direct, if the matter is not resolved within 14 days, I will be seeking a full refund or replacement under the sale of Goods Act!
AndyQuote
February 17th, 2011 at 9:42 am
From Panasonic re. 2008 TV
Thank you for your recent correspondence regarding your LZD81 LCD panel / PZ81 plasma panel.
I note that you have specific interest in obtaining an update to the above product to facilitate watching BBC iPlayer.
I appreciate your disappointment that we have so far been unable to provide this upgrade and note your concerns.
However, I would stress that the above product was supplied to the market to satisfy a demand for HD content availability via Freesat and has successfully provided this. It was also always intended, albeit not promised, that Panasonic would make best endeavours to provide additional features and functions if possible.
It is important to note that such additional features did not form part of any contractual obligation with third parties such as Freesat, or indeed the defined specification of the product. In addition, as I am certain you can appreciate, it is impossible to design any product to be future proof. Technology is evolving at a rapid rate and new features are being introduced all the time. Many that are in the market now were not conceived at the time that your product was launched. In addition, specification for the content providers systems have changed a number of times since the product was initially released, resulting in difficulties for our development teams. Accordingly our marketing of the LCD / Plasma panels did not include a commitment to provide these new functions.
Having stated this, we do recognise that our customers are keen to receive the enhanced feature of BBC iPlayer and we remain strongly committed to realisation of this request. The integrity of our product and the ability to ensure continued and consistent functionality remains paramount. We would not release software that might in any way compromise the intended specification of our product. This has presented a number of technical difficulties for our development team and has meant that we have not been able to provide an update as quickly as we would have wished.
We are not complacent however and are strenuously pursuing the matter on behalf of our customers with our research and development teams. Currently, we anticipate the provision of an upgrade for BBC iPlayer in September 2011. However, as always, this is subject to the testing required to ensure that it will not be detrimental to the product specification.
We will of course continue to provide you with updates regarding this as and when we receive the applicable information. The latest information will always be provided via the FAQ section of our website.
It will not be possible to provide software upgrades to further enhance the platform used in this range of TVs in the future. Therefore any future additional services cannot be guaranteed.
I do appreciate your frustration and disappointment at the delays in providing BBC iPlayer functionality and offer my sincere apologies. However, I trust that the above will help to offer some clarification of the situation.
I thank you for your patience in this matter. If you should have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0844 844 3852 or email us using the following email address:
customer.care@panasonic.co.uk
Kind Regards,
Customer Communications Centre
Panasonic UK Ltd
Bill CardwellQuote
February 19th, 2011 at 5:23 pm
Nicely being told to bugger off as those older tellies don’t work with iplayer due to hardware issues & you can’t pull us up on it as we never said it would in our 2008 spec, is the impression I get from that response.
I do have a pz81 so would be nice.
PanfanQuote
February 21st, 2011 at 8:29 pm
actually i still have the advert about the pz81b with the bloke from dog soldiers announcing the tv and showing us what it can do. on the advert which by the way was broadcast on uk television states that the ethernet rj45 slot on the back was open for bbc i player in the future ISNT THAT FALSE ADVERTISING !! if you want to watch it go on you tube and type in pz81b features.
i will be seeking legal advice or a swap for a tv which cost me 1400.00 which can provide what was clearly advertised.
going back on the last post saying……However, I would stress that the above product was supplied to the market to satisfy a demand for HD content availability via Freesat and has successfully provided this. thats like saying oh the car you bought does drive you from a to b and we provided this but we wont sort out your air con or sat nav or electric windows COMPLETE CRAP !!!!
Philip HumberstoneQuote
February 21st, 2011 at 9:17 pm
@Philip Humberstone
Can you point us to the specific advert which states this, as the only one we can find is this one which says “possibly of adding iplayer”.
adminQuote
February 23rd, 2011 at 8:16 pm
nice one Philip it does say possibly but alluding to it is almost as good as saying it as before they have always said they never mentioned it.
Anyone tried putting this to Panasonic and saying now I want a refund/ money towards a set that does work etc.?
DavidQuote
February 23rd, 2011 at 10:00 pm
I believe that the Panasonic Viera PZ81 advertisement is the one you linked – and a transcript of the relevant part is:
“… Later in the year interactive services will be available via the internet, using LAN connection, with the possibility of additional services like BBC iPlayer in the future. With Viera, you’ll soon be able to watch whatever you want, whenever you want, for free …”
But it must be noted that the use of a LAN port, for interactive services, was mandated in the original Freesat specification for branded receiving equipment so that it wouldn’t become obsolete when the planned services were introduced and that Panasonic did state that ” interactive services will be available via the internet” although they have failed to enable any internet connectivity!
AndyQuote
February 23rd, 2011 at 10:02 pm
@Andy
Agreed that Panasonic promoted the use of the Internet connection for services, which they haven’t met, but iPlayer is a little bit of a grey area, as they only said “possibility”. Hopefully they will get there in the end, suspect they would have told us if they were giving up by now.
adminQuote
March 6th, 2011 at 11:56 am
Hi again ive been on another message board and someone has posted a letter saying that the pz81b software will be available in august or september this year as they need to test it
this fob off has gone on now since christmas 2008 lol!!!
so we could wait basically for the update only to be told we found glitchs bla bla bla and we wont release it
i wonder if we pushed it could we get the beta software just to test for them is it really that hard to find a work around for the pz81b tv you can do just about anything when coding i think its all down to lazyness and money!!
i do want to like panasonic but ive gone right off them with all this waiting and letters not knowing if were coming and going
Philip HumberstoneQuote
April 14th, 2011 at 1:12 pm
I have a Panasonic LZD81 LCD panel (TV) one of the Panasonic 2008 Freesat HD TV’s + Blu-ray / DVD recorders that currently can’t access BBC IPlayer.
I bought the TX37LZD81 above others knowing Panasonics reputation of staying ahead of the game with its technical nous.
After installing two Devolo dLAN 200 Avsmart and Starter Kit at a cost of £129.99.
I was shocked to find that I couldn’t access the IPlayer because it said that they are waiting to update the service for Panasonic 2008 Freesat HD TV’s + Blu-ray / DVD recorders.
I may be missing something here but iPlayer was launched on Christmas Day 2007 that’s about 3 years and 4 months ago, a year before Panasonic 2008 Freesat HD TV’s + Blu-ray / DVD recorders came off the production line.
I did get in touch with CustomerCare.Advisor@eu.panasonic.com who gave me a 517 word explanation of why I couldn’t receive IPlayer part of which stated “WE ANTICIPATE the provision of an upgrade for BBC iPlayer in September 2011” note WE ANTICIPATE not will .
This after reading prompted me to email them back with a few questions.
CustomerCare.Advisor@eu.panasonic.com did not return my email, so I emailed them again, they still haven’t replied, very suspicious.
This begs the question, are the Panasonic 2008 Freesat HD TV’s + Blu-ray / DVD recorders “FIT FOR PURPOSE” if not will Panasonic recall theses TV’s and Recorders for an upgrade to rectify this long needed design problem.
Neville CurzonQuote
May 20th, 2011 at 11:44 pm
I’m another TX37LZD81 owner who has written to Panasonic ..more in hope than expectation.
Steve rowlandsQuote
May 25th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
Yet again I have emailed Panasonic about the situation regarding 2008 models of the interactive equipment, that is still as yet non interactive. The fact that they promised interactivity on this equipment is irrespective of which platform ie. BBCiPlayer, that they choose but that fact that any form of interactivity is not actually forthcoming. The approximate time frame of around 3 years, and still no further along would not be accepted by any other manufacturing industry, so why should we bend over and accept our lot. Not likely panasonic!!!! We will have our day and we will be vindicated from your lack of support.
Will post again when I get some news.
Kit BadgerQuote
May 29th, 2011 at 9:37 am
I too have a pz81b. I have not read all the posts but has anyone tried to contact BBC Watchdog? Maybe Annie could put some pressure on Panasonic and get some definative answers
John KingQuote
June 9th, 2011 at 12:22 pm
I e-mailed Watchdog at the end of their last series – but it may be worth trying again, and the more people that contact them, the more likely it is that they will cover the issue. You could also try your local MP – to raise as a question in Parliament, which was going to be my next avenue but, from my own personal position, I have (finally) managed to get a replacement “good will jesture” from the retailer and now have full i-player services – works very well, and I’m amazed at how often I use it; but I’m now wondering when (if ever) Panasonic will enable the ITV Player that is in Beta (from page 999) but doesn’t work yet on my TV.
AndyQuote
June 26th, 2011 at 3:39 pm
@Andy
I too have finally abandoned my PZ81B. Panasonic have clearly down their best to cover their tracks on this one: the broken promises, the removal of the Sean Pertwee publicity video from the official site, and the purging of their previous statements from their customer support Q&A.
This all led me to conclude that they will never make good on their promise to provide iPlayer access on this model. This, in conjunction with the unacceptable length of time which has passed, were the arguments I presented to ther retailer. They, in turn, argued that I had taken a very long time in reporting this issue to them!
However, we were able to come to an agreement and I no longer need to worry about this issue.
I would urge you to do the same.
Brian DamageQuote
July 22nd, 2011 at 9:14 pm
Just as a record of what Panasonic are now showing on their web-site:
2008 Freesat television models: Currently, we anticipate the provision of an upgrade for BBC iPlayer in September 2011. However, as always, this is subject to the testing required to ensure that it will not be detrimental to the product specification.
Panasonic would stress that the above product was supplied to the market to satisfy a demand for HD content availability via Freesat and has successfully provided this. It was also always intended, albeit not promised, that Panasonic would make best endeavours to provide additional features and functions if possible.
It is important to note that such additional features did not form part of any contractual obligation with third parties such as Freesat, or indeed the defined specification of the product. In addition, it is impossible to design any product to be future proof. Technology is evolving at a rapid rate and new features are being introduced all the time. Many that are in the market now were not conceived at the time that your product was launched. In addition, specification for the content providers systems have changed a number of times since the product was initially released, resulting in difficulties for our development teams. Accordingly our marketing of the LCD / Plasma panels did not include a commitment to provide these new functions.
Having stated this, we do recognise that our customers are keen to receive the enhanced feature of BBC iPlayer and we remain strongly committed to realisation of this request. The integrity of our product and the ability to ensure continued and consistent functionality remains paramount. We would not release software that might in any way compromise the intended specification of our product. This has presented a number of technical difficulties for our development team and has meant that we have not been able to provide an update as quickly as we would have wished.
It will not be possible to provide software upgrades to further enhance the platform used in this range of TVs in the future. Therefore any future additional services cannot be guaranteed.
Accessing iPlayer: To receive this service you will require a Freesat satellite TV connected to a 1MB or faster Broadband internet connection. You can test the connection by accessing the Viera Cast service. To access the iPlayer service you can select iPlayer from the ‘On Demand’ section of the Guide, or go directly to channel 901.
Brian DamageQuote
July 25th, 2011 at 1:52 pm
@Brian
Although it isn’t a direct issue for me anymore, after managing to persuade the retailer I bought from to provide a (free) replacement that works properly, the bit that worries me is the statement that “It will not be possible to provide software upgrades to further enhance the platform used in this range of TVs in the future. Therefore any future additional services cannot be guaranteed”.
I can receive BBC IPlayer but not the ITV Player (in beta testing – from Channel 999) – so I assume that the software for BBC IPlayer and ITVPlayer will be different (unless any one knows different)? If this is the case, it may be that you could eventually (2 years late) get BBC IPlayer but will be left without ITV Player – and I’m not sure if my new (2010 model) TV will ever provide ITV Player?!?
AndyQuote
July 25th, 2011 at 8:56 pm
@Andy
Yes – IT IS a worry. And makes a mockery of Freesat as a brand and as a standard.
You’d think that Freesat would have imposed some control, or at least imposed a requirement, to provide a specific level of service – and indeed it was my understanding that this was the case, and applied to the iPlayer, which is why other manufacturers were legally, as well as morally, obliged to make good on their promises to deliver this service.
However Panasonic’s behaviour suggests that this is not the case – and that manufacturers can choose whether to provide support for services which are otherwise a Freesat standard. Today that really only applies to the iPlayer and the interactive job-search. ITVPlayer is still technically a beta, and 4OD and other services may never be offered. However it would be much more satisfactory if someone buying a Freesat badged product knew that they were buying a product of a given standard, which would support whatever services were enabled yesterday (iPlayer), whatever services will be enabled tomorrow (ITVPlayer) and whatever services are still to come.
Brian DamageQuote
August 11th, 2011 at 9:51 am
@Andy
This suggests the 2010 models will not get the ITVplayer: http://www.freesat.co.uk/what-you-get/on-demand-tv/check-your-box-or-tv-for-on-demand
ChrisQuote
September 27th, 2011 at 11:18 pm
Talk about at the 11th hour – any 2008 owners still reading this thread?
“2010 Freesat television models: The BBC iPlayer feature is available via the red button interactive service on the BBC channels on Freesat if you have your TV connected to an internet connection. Regrettably there are no current plans to add this service to Viera Cast.
2009 Freesat television models: The 2009 televisions with the Viera Cast feature can access the Viera Cast service to prompt for the download, please note that this is a method of updating the television and Viera Cast will not carry the iPlayer service. After successfully updating, the service should be available via the BBC red button service on Freesat.
For owners of the G10 (which does not have the Viera Cast feature), the update for iPlayer is currently being transmitted via an over the air download on Freesat.
You can ensure that your television is set to auto update in standby by doing the following:-
Go to freesat, and select BBC 1 (Channel 101)
Press the menu button on the remote control
Access the Setup Menu
Access System Menu
Access System Update
Select Auto Update Search in Standby and set to ON.
2008 Freesat television models: An update via Freesat is scheduled for Wednesday the 27th of September. The set will update automaticaly overnight on this date. Please ensure that the ‘Auto Update Search in Standby’ is set to on in the system update menu, which is found in the setup menu.
Once updated you will be able to use the iPlayer service from freesat.
It will not be possible to provide software upgrades to further enhance the platform used in this range of TVs in the future. Therefore any future additional services cannot be guaranteed. ”
Accessing iPlayer: To receive this service you will require a Freesat satellite TV connected to a 1MB or faster Broadband internet connection. You can test the connection by accessing the Viera Cast service. To access the iPlayer service you can select iPlayer from the ‘On Demand’ section of the Guide, or go directly to channel 901.
Brian DamageQuote
September 28th, 2011 at 8:50 pm
What software state should I expect to see on a 2008 model?
Chris PalmerQuote
September 29th, 2011 at 8:14 pm
Hurrah….it works!
Chris PalmerQuote
September 30th, 2011 at 10:15 am
Great to read that iPlayer is finally enabled – but does the up-date provide access to ITV Player on 903?
For me, after receiving a replacement TV (Panasonic TX-L32D28BS) from John lewis for my 2008 (TX-32-ZD81) Panasonic TV because it couldn’t receive the promised BBC iPlayer and other interactive services, I asked panasonic when ITV Player will be enabled and have now been told by a Panasonic Customer Care Adviser that: “Unfortunately, it will not be possible to provide software upgrades to further enhance the platform used in this range of TVs in the future. Therefore any future additional services cannot be guaranteed. ”
So why oh why did I accept another panasonic TV as a replacement???
AndyQuote
September 30th, 2011 at 6:27 pm
Well after virtually giving up hope of ever getting I Player on my 2008 TH-42PZ81B
I switched on yesterday to find that I had received the software upgrade and it works!
Of course I’m still miffed with Panasonic for this appalling delay and the news that other upgrades are unlikely.
They don’t deserve the customer base they have with performance like this.
Unfortunately I cant afford to ditch a working TV that is becoming a white elephant even though I thought I was buy a reasonable amount of future proofing.
PeterQuote
October 3rd, 2011 at 7:03 pm
A download # 1.619 has been applied to my TH-42PZ81B
Despite running a cable to the set from my Router, the set claims that
there is no connection. Ditto with a Pass through 200M Plug set.
What am I missing I wonder ?
All clues gratefully considered.
Tony RogersQuote
October 4th, 2011 at 9:00 pm
I have Software version #1.619 which it says is up to date and I still cannot receive BBC iPlayer through my Ethernet Home Plug connection on my 2008 Panasonic TV.
KeithQuote
October 6th, 2011 at 10:38 pm
It works and it’s great.
RodQuote
October 8th, 2011 at 7:59 am
Yes, 2008 model, updated last night – iPlayer works, I chose the “High” option (can’t remember the exact wording) it wasn’t 1080p, but still good quality – better than my PVR (which is only SD freeview).
Tony MuddQuote
October 8th, 2011 at 11:03 am
@Tony Rogers, @Keith, did you try turning everything off? Fwiw, I was getting the no connection message although the home plug was on and connected. I turned off the TV, waited a few seconds and turned back on and was able to connect.
RichardQuote
November 4th, 2011 at 3:26 pm
John Lewis understood the problem at once.
Arranged for a replacement with a healthy refund allowance.
Now using a TX-P46GT30B with all functions…I think !
The balance of using a local supplier versus a large national seems
to have been a stumbling block for many forum users.
Living on “The Lizard , Cornwall”, there are no easy ways other than
the internet to obtain the firms that have “Clout” with suppliers.
My thanks to this and other dedicated forums for the dispersal of
information which I feel sure is going a long way to keeping manufacturers aware of their shortcomings and liabilities.
Keep the Aspidistra Flying folks
Tony RogersQuote
November 6th, 2011 at 1:36 am
Hi Tony,
I have a pz81b with software 1.619 and no iPlayer, could you please give me some information on what the problem is and how you got JL to replace the set?
Thanks in advance,
Sunny
SunnyQuote