Apparently AT&T is due to launch it’s own MediaFLO-based broadcast Mobile TV in the USA in the next few weeks, after Verizon’s launch last year. Now we’ve mentioned this story before (here and here), but this most recent update states the launch is immiment – exciting times indeed!
There will be 8 linear 24hr channels, and 2 exclusive channels – giving what I think is a nice spread to a starting line-up. Here’s the list of the 8 core channels:
- CBS Mobile
- Comedy Central
- ESPN Mobile TV
- Fox Mobile
- MTV
- NBC News 2Go
- NBC 2Go
- Nickelodeon
It will also be possible to invoke complimentary datacasting, meaning in plain(er) English that personalised, real-time data can be pushed to users and their devices. We could envisage perhaps this might be programme information, or links to websites (for premium download purposes, perchance?). The first handset to support the service will apparently be the LG Vu, or CU920 as it’s otherwise known (similar to LG’s Viewty).
It’s all sounding good to me – as you may know, I’m quite an advocate of Mobile TV, because I think it has real potential to leverage significant increases in ARPU for the Operators (which keeps them happy), but also enables other revenue streams for the broadcasters and content providers. As always, it’s gonna be about the quality of content delivered, but I’m upbeat and can’t wait to see the initial reviews of the service!