Humax is well known for its set-top boxes for TVs, and its latest model is the first to combine all the smarts of Android TV with Freeview Play, as well as 4K HDR support. The Humax Aura comes with built-in voice control via the Google Assistant, as well as access to Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, BT Sport and more, thanks to its Android TV integration. As a Freeview Play box, you also get access to over 70 channels without a subscription, with the ability to record up to four live TV shows while watching a fifth at the same time. Two hard drive options are available, depending on how much content you want to record: 1TB will cover up to 500 hours of recording, while the 2TB option will give you up to 1000 hours. If you want to watch shows on the go, you can use the Humax Aura app to stream TV shows at home or download to watch later. You can also use the app to schedule recordings and set reminders for your favorite TV shows.
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Humax says that setting up Aura is easy and that "by signing into their Google account, users have instant access to all their downloaded apps, YouTube settings, music downloads, and connectivity to Google Home." As an Android TV device, Google Chromecast is built into the Humax Aura, which means you can cast photos, videos, music, and more to your TV screen using your laptop, tablet, or phone. The accompanying remote comes with several shortcut keys, including a Freeview Play button, Top Picks (which gives you content recommendations), and dedicated buttons for Android Home, Amazon Prime Video, and Humax Kids' Zone. There's also a button for the Google Assistant; you can simply tap it to activate voice command and ask the voice assistant a series of questions, as well as control playback on your TV; You can also ask the Google Assistant to control your other smart home devices, for example, turn on your smart lights or turn on your smart thermostat. Today's Best Set-top Box Deals So how much will all this cost you? For the 1TB model, you can expect to pay €249, while the 2TB will set you back €279, both available from November (although exact times have yet to be confirmed). Humax says you'll be able to buy the Aura from retailers like Currys, Argos, Amazon and Very, all of which are expected to have big Black Friday sales on November 27. While this new PVR is unlikely to get huge discounts, there's always the chance that Aura will be included in site-wide sales events, meaning it may be worth waiting for Black Friday to buy.