14 DAY TRIAL // ZTE and BT Movio have made public their intentions to jointly develop handsets for Mobile TV and DAB (digital audio broadcasting) digital radio services. The new devices will operate in dual mode 3G / DAB-IP and will allow operators to cut down costs for mobile TV and DAB services.
Mobile TV popularity is continuously increasing and is expected to reach 210 million subscribers by 2011. The main advantage DAB holds over other mobile TV standards such as DVB-H and MediaFlo is its immediate availability and the extensive support of media companies who are already delivering DAB services. Thus, operators using the technology will be able to quickly secure a large customer base.
"Handset choice is a key ingredient for the success of our wholesale mobile entertainment service proposition," said Emma Lloyd, managing director of BT Movio. "We are delighted to be working with ZTE, who are already establishing themselves as a 3G supplier in Europe, to bring additional handsets to the BT Movio device roadmap."
Recently, Virgin Mobile and BT Movio announced that the launch of their service is scheduled for October, 1st. The service will be available on the Lobster 700 phone, which is the first device to include mobile TV, DAB Digital Radio, program guide and a dedicated 'red button' for quick access.