Warning over incompatible set top boxes

15 October 2010

For Immediate Release

Warning for Consumers over incompatible set top boxes

The Consumer Electronics Association of New Zealand issued a warning today to consumers purchasing set top boxes from the New Zealand herald online shopping web site.

The Association spotted at least one set top box, the NeoniQ being sold to New Zealand consumers when the small print for the product clearly says it is compatible for Australian networks only.

Other products on the New Zealand Herald website such as the Akai set top boxes bundled with televisions claim to be able to receive Freeview NZ channels however the product specifics that it works on MPEG 2 which is suitable for Australia but not New Zealand which works on MPEG4.

“We are deeply concerned that Consumers are being misled and will end up out of pocket for set top boxes that just will not deliver the experience that converting to a digital television signal can deliver” said Executive Officer Garth Wyllie

We believe it is important that consumers understand that when they purchase televisions or television equipment, they must be compatible to New Zealand signals.

Buying reputable brands who have put the time into ensuring their equipment will work in New Zealand through established retailers is one way of ensuring that consumers will get the experience they deserve.

The Consumer Electronics Association is calling for the New Zealand Herald to ensure that products sold via its web site are suitable for New Zealand, withdraw those that are not and ensure refunds are made to consumers who may have purchased these set top boxes that are not suitable.

ENDS

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