MobiTV Expands to Europe with Orange UK Launch

MobiTV, the world’s first global television network and technology platform providing live television on mobile phones, announced that the much anticipated launch of Orange TV powered by MobiTV is available to customers across the United Kingdom beginning today.  This is the first launch of MobiTV in Europe and represents Mobi TV’s commitment to expand internationally to meet the global demand for television on-the-go. Orange TV, offered on Orange UK’s high speed 3G network, is the first multi-channel mobile television network in the UK, combining both live broadcast and made-for-mobile television stations. 

“We are very pleased to be working with Orange UK as a foundation partner in Europe," said Ray DeRenzo, vice president of business development, EMEA of MobiTV.  “Orange’s launch of MobiTV is more than a compelling 3G proposition; it is a validation that mobile television service offers value to consumers on a world-wide basis.  MobiTV has created a virtual media network in the UK, linking broadcasters and video producers with wireless operators, and ultimately with consumers."

 “In order to provide our customers with an excellent TV experience, we needed great content, a reliable platform and an easy user interface, and MobiTV were instrumental in bringing that together for us," said Deborah Tonroe, Head of Commercial Development for Orange UK. “Mobile television is a great example of the exciting services we’re able to offer with our high-speed 3G network."

To appeal to the UK viewing audience, MobiTV has extended its content acquisition efforts to Europe, providing an exciting channel lineup that will include a variety of news, entertainment, music and sports content.  The initial channel line up includes: ITN News, CNN International, Cartoon Network, Toon World, Extreme Sports Mobile, Comedy Time, Fashion TV and exclusive 24x7 access to the summers hottest reality shows.  Orange and MobiTV expect to announce additional channels in the coming weeks.

Nicholas Wheeler, Managing Director of ITN Multimedia, said: “As news suppliers we always strive to get information out there first and fastest.  So, the idea of live broadcasting to the mobile through MobiTV is a fantastic proposition, delivering news wherever and whenever people want it."

"This launch signals a significant advancement in wireless content distribution in Europe and further highlights the rapid expansion of mobile television in the international marketplace," said Mitch Lazar, Vice President Wireless & Emerging Technology for TBS International, Inc.  "We are excited to extend Turner's channels to MobiTV's subscribers and give our viewers a simple and intuitive way to watch CNN and Cartoon Network on the go, anytime, anyplace."

Orange TV powered by MobiTV is initially offered on the Nokia 6680 phone with additional handsets to be announced shortly.  To get the service, customers can simply download the MobiTV application free from the Orange World portal and subscribe to the service, which will cost £10 per month.  The price includes data usage up to one gigabyte (approximately 20 hours of viewing). After that, standard data charges will apply. www.mobitv.com.