Friday, May 2, 2008

Television shows to mobile phones
US telecom giant AT&T announced Thursday it is launching a mobile telephone television service in a partnership with MediaFLO USA.

Beginning Sunday, AT&T Mobile TV will provide around-the-clock availability of shows from networks including CBS, FOX, NBC, CNN, and MTV.

"AT&T Mobile TV is more than a new entertainment service, it is an experience that will significantly change and enhance our customers' mobile lifestyles," said AT&T wireless unit vice president Mark Collins.

AT&T said it will charge subscribers 15 dollars monthly for the television service, which will be operated by Qualcomm-owned MediaFLO.

The service will only be available on two mobile telephones by electronics makers LG and Samsung that will go on sale on the AT&T Mobile TV launch date.

AT&T Mobile TV will compete with a V Cast Mobile TV service that Qualcomm operates for AT&T rival Verizon Wireless.

"Television on your cellphone is one of the exciting areas we have been watching grow," said telecom industry analyst Jeff Kagan.

"This technology has been around for the last few years, but there has only been a limited number of channels and programming to watch. As the number of channels and programs and movies increase, the more marketable the service is."