James Delahunty
1 Mar 2007 19:33
Verizon Wireless has introduced the first commercial mobile television service in 20 states in the U.S., which includes full length programs and quality that is similar to regular television. A Verizon / Vodafone venture will charge customers a $15/month subscription fee for the service which includes 8 channels, broadcasting content 24 hours a day. It was developed by Qualcomm's MediaFlo.
Verizon has been experimenting with video content in an effort to make up for revenue lost as mobile phone calls become cheaper. Verizon Wireless is the second largest mobile phone provider in the United States, and so far its video services have not received much attention from customers, due to its low quality and high prices.
The first phone to support MediaFlo is the U620 from Samsung. It is being sold for $199, or $149.99 for customers who sign a two-year contract. Verizon plans to add another phone, from LG Electronics Inc. in a matter of weeks. Available channels include a feeds from MTV and programming from CBS, NBC, ESPN, Fox, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central.
Source:
Reuters