Interesting update at

http://www.stuff.co.nz/technology/gadgets/3626024/Three-years-of-Freeview-TV-so-what-next

Some excerpts:

"Freeview also has finalised internet protocol specs for the next generation of MyFreeviewHDs that broadcasters - if they build the applications (software) - could use to deliver similar over-the-top content, anything from catch-up television to movie downloads to pay-TV services - as TiVo already does with its CASPA service."

"Due within the next month or two is Panasonic's new DMR- BW850 Blu-ray disc recorder, complete with a 500-gigabyte hard drive, internet functionality and the ability to burn high-definition content to Blu-ray disc."

"Panasonic also will be first to market higher-end plasma and LCD TVs that can record, in HD, content directly from the TV, using the Freeview EPG and a USB connection, to any hard drive, which will be a cheaper alternative to buying a DTR."

"Freeview is urging the Government and broadcasters to extend the platform's terrestrial reach, so provincial towns can receive the high-definition signals that so far have been limited to the nine biggest centres."