Telly, a US-based startup, has made waves in the TV market with its announcement of a revolutionary 55-inch TV featuring a second screen, integrated soundbar, and camera. What sets this TV apart is that users can obtain it for free. Yes, you read that right. But what’s the catch? Well, in exchange for the TV, users must be willing to watch a continuous stream of ads.
The Brainchild of an Ad-Supported Streaming Pioneer
Telly was founded by Ilya Pozin, the co-founder of Pluto TV, a highly popular ad-supported streaming service. Inspired by the success of Pluto TV, Pozin decided to take it a step further with Telly by offering free TVs in exchange for viewers watching ads. Pozin explains, “When I co-founded Pluto TV, we created an entirely new model that offered amazing TV content to viewers for free. Now, with Telly, we are providing the actual television for free as well.”
Two Screens: One for You, One for Ads
Don’t worry about being bombarded with incessant ads on your 55″ screen. Telly cleverly utilizes the second display for ads, occupying only a quarter of the screen. Users can easily train their eyes to ignore this portion. While some may find it slightly distracting, remember that it’s a free TV!
The remaining space on the second screen can be used to display useful widgets, such as sports scores, news tickers, weather updates, and stock prices. Additionally, Telly’s chief strategy officer, Dallas Lawrence, reveals that ads might utilize both displays when the TV is not in use, creating an engaging ad experience. Telly is also developing a rewards program where users can earn gift cards by engaging with on-screen polls and content.
Partnering for Success
Telly has partnered with MNTN, a TV ad company, to sell ads for the Telly system. Additionally, the company plans to enable users to shop, order takeout, or get food delivered through the TV, earning a percentage from each transaction.
Impressive Specifications and Features
The TV boasts a 55-inch 4K HDR panel with a secondary display and a built-in five-driver soundbar. It runs on TellyOS, the company’s proprietary operating system. While it currently lacks support for third-party streaming apps like Netflix, the TV comes bundled with a free 4K Android TV dongle, allowing users to access any streaming service they desire. It is also compatible with popular streaming devices such as Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV.
Furthermore, the TV includes its own voice assistant, “Hey Telly,” a camera with Zoom integration for videoconferencing, and motion-tracking fitness programs. Users can enjoy playing 40 different games and listening to songs from popular music services, although specific details about these partnerships have not been disclosed.
How to Get Your Free Telly TV
If you’re intrigued by this enticing offer, you can register for the free TV on Telly’s website. However, keep in mind that there is a waitlist, and only the first 500,000 users will be eligible. The shipping of these TVs is set to begin in the upcoming summer. Don’t miss out on this opportunity and share the news with friends who could benefit from this remarkable offer.
