Norway launches mobile TV via DMB

Norway’s Mobile TV Corporation (NMTV), a joint-venture between broadcasters NRK, TV2 and Modern Times Group (MTG), has launched a mobile TV via DMB service.

The service, MiniTV, comprises six free-to-air channels, and can be received via DMB-equipped receivers in the Greater Oslo area. The service currently offers NRK1, NRK2, NRK3, TV 2, TV 2 News 24 and Viasat TV 3, in addition to 15 DAB digital radio services.
Additional services providing interactivity, traffic information and on-demand programmes will be offered later in 2009.  

The launch follows a trial of the technology, which is based on the DAB digital radio standard, by public broadcaster NRK in the Trondheim area. NMTV’s DMB licence is valid until July 2011 and may be lengthened if the initial period proves a success. NRK’s channels will remain free-to-air throughout the period, while commercial broadcasters TV2 and MTG are planning to introduce pay-TV channels.

DMB receivers currently on sale are expected to be supplement by other brands over the summer. DMB services are currently available in South Korea, China, Italy and Ghana, while the Netherlands and France are also expected to launch this year. 

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