News on News - IPTV

New York FiOS TV Subscribers Get Mets and Yankees Games On Demand

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 14:02:57 +0000

Verizon is giving its FiOS TV subscribers in the New York metro area Yankees and Mets games in high definition -- when subscribers want them.

As part of separate agreements with the YES Network and SNY, Verizon FiOS subscribers in the area will be able to access the games on the FiOS1 Local Zone folder in the free Video on Demand category. VOD can be found on the FiOS Main Menu function.

In addition to the games, other popular YES Network and SNY programming also will be provided in HD in the FiOS1 Local Zone folder.

Verizon FiOS is the only TV provider in the New York metro area to offer the Yankees and Mets games and the networks' other content in HD on VOD. Verizon FiOS has provided the baseball games and other YES and SNY shows in SD (standard definition) for four years.

The first HD games available will be the Mets opener against the Atlanta Braves on Thursday (April 5), and the Yankees game the following day at Tampa.

The games and content will be available to FiOS subscribers in New York City, Long Island, the northern suburbs, the mid-Hudson area, and northern and central New Jersey.

"Our subscribers can't get enough of the home-town Yankees and Mets," said Orlando Martinez, Verizon director of FiOS1 sports content. "By giving them the ability to watch our crystal-clear, high-definition broadcasts of their favorite baseball teams on their own time, or as a replay, we're providing more entertainment value and greater choice.

"Sports-related programming – and especially the games themselves – is important to our customers. So we continually look for more ways to get that content in front of our viewers. Our customers have the added convenience of Verizon FiOS putting the games and content on HD in a free area that viewers can access at any time," Martinez said.

BT Vision Signs Multi-year Deal with UKTV

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 22:43:29 +0000

Britain’s leading branded multichannel broadcaster, UKTV, has defined its first ever IPTV deal.

The three-year agreement with BT Vision covers both channel-branded VOD (video-on-demand) content which will be available from today, and the network’s award-winning portfolio of linear, paid-for television channels, beginning with Watch, Gold and Alibi later this year.

UKTV’s VOD offering will be available to BT Vision customers on a subscription and transactional basis, and will include a wealth of great television from Really, Eden, Good Food and Home’s new and exclusive commissioned and acquired programme catalogue, including the deliciously entertaining James Martin’s Mediterranean and Choccywoccydoodah (Good Food), the inspiring Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and Celebrity Fantasy Homes (Home), the compelling Tool Academy and Bridezillas (Really), and the awe-inspiring Amazing Planet and Life on Fire (Eden).

UKTV’s branded linear channels will then be streamed to BT Vision set-top boxes from late 2012. Initial channels on the platform will be Watch, featuring a range of extraordinary hit shows Dynamo: Magician Impossible, Alcatraz and Grimm; Gold featuring comedy’s national treasures including Fawlty Towers, The Royle Family and Blackadder; and Alibi with its slick range of deadly dramas including Body of Proof and Rizzoli & Isles. Further UKTV branded channels including Good Food, Eden and Home are earmarked for future development on the BT Vision service.

Darren Childs, CEO, UKTV comments “I’m delighted that BT Vision subscribers will soon benefit from the launch of our branded channels, meaning great UKTV programming is available anytime and on demand.

UKTV has a unique group of popular and highly impactful brands spanning Entertainment, Lifestyle and Factual and this deal is recognition of the breadth and appeal of that portfolio to British television viewers. As a network, we had our highest performing year on record in 2011, and we are absolutely committed to extending the reach of our network.”

Marc Watson, CEO, BT Vision added “We are delighted to be able to welcome the wealth of programmes that UKTV has to offer on to BT Vision, for both on-demand and in the future, linear TV. This is great news for BT Vision customers. It is the first content deal we are announcing which includes linear TV - watch out for more exciting linear deals that are on the way“.

UKTV – an independent joint venture between BBC Worldwide and Scripps Networks Interactive - claimed its highest rating year in 2011 with an average UK share of 4% throughout 2011.

China's PPTV Online to Air Internet Stream of Super Bowl XLVI

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 15:37:55 +0000

The 46th Super Bowl will take place in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis on Sunday, February 5, 2012. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 PM EST (7:30 AM Beijing time, February 6).

The AFC Champion New England Patriots and NFC Champion New York Giants will battle for the Lombardi Trophy. While 164 million US audiences watched Super Bowl XLV live on NBC last year, watching live broadcasting of the Super Bowl in China is yet a luxury until this year, after NFL entered a partnership with PPTV for online live broadcasting in China. PPTV is set to be the first and the only Chinese online TV media officially invited by the NFL to enter into the media studio of Lucas Oil Stadium. It is also the only online TV on the list of live broadcasters for the Super Bowl. With the coverage Super Bowl XLVI, it is no doubt that the leading position of PPTV in online live sports broadcasting would be reinforced.

As a new comprehensive online TV media that becomes famous for its live sports broadcasting, PPTV Online TV demonstrates its edge in front-line live coverage this time with its rich experience in the field of live broadcasting. PPTV has the most experienced online live broadcasting operation team and technical platform in China.

Mr. Huang Jianxiang, the most renowned Chinese sports commentator, together with Mr. Dong Li, a famous sports TV host, will comment the game live on the spot. PPTV will start broadcasting programs of Super Bowl XLVI from 7 AM Beijing time on February 6th and the review of the competition between the two teams of the final in 2008. Simultaneously, the audiences can watch the commentary Huang Jianxiang and Dong Li from US and feel the enthusiasm of the American fans directly. Coincidentally, both Huang Jianxiang and Dong Li had witnessed Super Bowl XLII in Phoenix in 2008, when the Giants ended New England's bid for a perfect season with a 17-14 upset victory. It is believed that the two commentators would deliver a lot of flavor about the match to PPTV's audience through their comments.

In addition, NBC announced that the Super Bowl will be broadcasted live through online media for the first time throughout the history. Mobile users of Verizon can also watch the live broadcasting on their handsets. Nevertheless, PPTV will carry out the live broadcasting through its entire platforms including its web page, PC client, iMAC client, Android app, iPhone App, iPad App and WP 7 client. PPTV provides the Chinese fans with the opportunity to get in touch with overseas top sports game.

Sky to Launch New Internet TV Service

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:26:12 +0000

Sky has announced plans to launch a new service allowing customers to watch some of its most popular content over the internet.

Taking advantage of the rapid growth in broadband-connected devices, and building on Sky’s experience in multi-platform TV, the new service will be an additional choice for people who don’t currently subscribe to a pay TV service.

Launching in the first half of 2012, the new service will provide instant and simple access to a range of Sky content, including hundreds of films from Sky Movies. Giving consumers even more choice and flexibility, the service will be available to anyone in the UK with a broadband connection.

Key features of the new service will include:

Great content - the new service will offer some of Sky’s most popular programming. Sky Movies will be available from launch and the service will expand to offer sport and entertainment soon afterwards.

Flexible pricing – with no minimum contract, customers will be able to choose from a variety of pricing options. For example, people will be able to pay monthly for unlimited access to Sky Movies or rent a single movie on a simple, pay-as-you-go basis.

Easy access – the new service will be available across a wide range of connected devices, including PCs, Macs, laptops, tablets, mobile phones, games consoles and connected TVs.

Ease of use – with immediate streaming through an intuitive interface, backed up by recommendations and editorial support, customers will quickly and easily find the content they most want to watch.

More details of the new service will be revealed closer to launch.

Sky has offered television over the internet for a number of years and in 2006 became the first UK broadcaster to offer content to download over the internet. The service has since evolved into Sky Go, which is now accessed across millions of internet-connected devices. Alongside the new internet TV service launching this year, Sky Go will continue to develop as a bonus service for existing Sky TV customers, offering access to a wide range of live channels and on demand content. The launch of a new internet TV service will complement Sky’s existing pay TV services and open up a wider opportunity to bring its content to more consumers.

Jeremy Darroch, Sky’s Chief Executive, said: "This exciting new service will offer some of Sky's most popular content through a wide range of broadband connected devices. Alongside the continued growth of our satellite platform, this will be a new way for us to reach out to consumers who love great content, but may not want the full Sky service. Bringing a distinctive, new choice to the marketplace will help us meet the needs and demands of an ever wider range of consumers.

"This new product launch will build on our early leadership in multi-platform distribution. It will allow us to make our expertise and investment in content and technology work even harder, extending our options for continued growth."

Verizon FiOS and Longhorn Network Launch New Online Service

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:00:12 +0000

Verizon has launched a live online simulcast of the Longhorn Network - the 24/7 channel devoted to athletic programming and related activities at the University of Texas - and is making it available to Verizon FiOS TV customers across the country.

Verizon FiOS is the first provider to launch the online broadband companion of the Longhorn Network.

FiOS TV customers who receive Longhorn Network as part of their video subscription service will be able to enjoy the network's exclusive live events and content on their laptops or personal computers, at home or away, using any broadband connection. With their Verizon Online user names and passwords, FiOS customers can access a live stream of the network online at either www.verizon.com/fiostvonline or LonghornNetwork.com.

"No question, Texas Longhorn fans are some of the most enthusiastic in college sports, and we're providing another option to catch the latest developments on the field - anywhere, anytime," said Terry Denson, vice president, global strategy for Verizon. "This enhancement builds on Verizon's commitment to bring the best in sports and entertainment and overall video content to our customers."

David Preschlack, executive vice president, Disney and ESPN Media Networks, added, "With this launch, Verizon FiOS customers will be able to watch UT content from the convenience of their PC. It's a great new way for students, alumni and UT fans everywhere to access Longhorn Network round-the-clock."

Upcoming programming highlights include a robust slate of men's and women's basketball games; the nationally ranked women's volleyball program; and content-rich studio and original programming such as "Longhorn Extra," "Game Plan with Mack Brown," "Texas All-Access," as well as "Texas GameDay" and "Texas GameDay Final." Verizon FiOS and Longhorn Network expect to extend online streaming to tablets and smartphones sometime next year.

This new content joins Verizon's high-quality, online video entertainment, which the company has been delivering since 2005. FiOS also offers a broad collection of programming on TV, with more than 540 all-digital channels including more than 130 HD channels and 30,000 monthly video-on-demand titles. FiOS also provides next-generation interactive services based on a long series of innovations, including Flex View and FiOS TV Online, which extend FiOS TV beyond the home to the Internet and a range of mobile devices; an advanced interactive media guide; free interactive applications like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and others; Media Manager, which allows customers to access on their TVs personal photos, music and videos from their computers; and more.

Live Verizon FiOS TV Coming Soon to Xbox

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 18:37:12 +0000

Verizon continues to expand the borderless lifestyle for consumers, with the announcement of a new offer that makes a selection of live, FiOS TV channels available over the Xbox 360 Entertainment System.

Through a collaboration between Verizon and Microsoft, customers who are Xbox LIVE Gold members and who subscribe to both FiOS TV and Internet service will be able to view select live channels through their Xbox consoles. No extra hardware is required. And for the first time, these customers will be able to integrate their TV experience with voice and gesture commands through Kinect for Xbox 360.

New customers who sign up online for FiOS TV service can take advantage of a special offer that includes triple-play service with FiOS TV, FiOS 35/35 Mbps Internet service and Verizon voice service, starting at $89.99 a month.

In addition, the offer includes a 12-month Xbox LIVE Gold Membership and the "Xbox Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary" game. The discounted offer is available through Jan. 21.

"Joining forces with Microsoft and Xbox, we are breaking the boundaries between TV and gaming, and furthering the borderless lifestyle Verizon customers enjoy with our new offers and services," said Eric Bruno, vice president of consumer and mass business product management for Verizon. "We are putting the controls in our customers' hands, and giving them the ability to watch TV on another dynamic device that they can control with voice and gesture commands.

"Whether it's your Xbox, your mobile device, your PC or your traditional television, Verizon will continue to deliver the programming consumers want, where, where and how they want it," Bruno said.

FiOS TV customers will have access to an app on their Xbox consoles, which will become available for download next month. Once customers download the Verizon FiOS TV app on their console, they can begin watching live streaming FiOS TV channels – without the need to pay for another set-top box. Customers must subscribe to both FiOS TV and Internet services. Initially, 26 FiOS TV channels will be available, depending on the customer's TV package. Customers who order FiOS TV and Internet service will receive the "Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary" game and Xbox LIVE Gold Membership token within 30 days.

As part of the offer, Verizon has partnered with leading gaming network Machinima to sponsor the Gamers' Choice Award. The award is given out during Machinima's Inside Gaming Awards, an annual event honoring the top game titles, which will be streamed live through Machinima's YouTube channel on Dec. 9.

Consumers can vote for their favorite game of the year through Facebook or on Twitter by using the #FiOSGamers hashtag, which also qualifies as entry into a sweepstakes that includes a grand prize of two years of Verizon FiOS triple-play service, a multi-room DVR, a Microsoft Kinect and 40,000 Microsoft points. Daily prizes of 4,000 Microsoft gaming points will be awarded to five winners per day, from Nov. 29 - Dec. 8.

Verizon continues to break boundaries with a variety of pioneering innovations. The company provides next-generation interactive services, including Flex View and FiOS TV Online, which extend FiOS TV beyond the home to the Internet and a range of mobile devices; an advanced interactive media guide; free interactive applications like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and others; Media Manager, which allows customers to access on their TVs personal photos, music and videos from their computers; and In-Home Agent, which assists customers in diagnosing and resolving a range of service issues.

In addition, the company recently introduced the MY FiOS app, an easy-to-use mobile application that gives customers access to everything from movies, TV shows and personal content; to remote DVR access and control; to home and energy monitoring; to billing, account management and customer service tools.

Netflix to Launch Streaming Movie and TV Service in UK and Ireland

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 14:28:48 +0000

Netflix, Inc. (Nasdaq: NFLX) has announced that it will expand to the United Kingdom and Ireland in early 2012, offering unlimited TV shows and movies streaming instantly over the Internet to TVs and computers for one low monthly subscription price.

Upon launch, Netflix members from the UK and Ireland will be able to instantly watch a wide array of TV shows and movies right on their TVs via a range of consumer electronics devices capable of streaming from Netflix, as well as on PCs, Macs and mobile tablets and phones. Further details about the service, including pricing, content and supported devices, will be announced closer to launch.

Netflix has been streaming to U.S. members since 2007, adding Canada in 2010 and 43 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean in September 2011. Netflix has revolutionized entertainment across the Americas by giving its members a huge selection of movies and TV shows to enjoy when and where they want.

People interested in becoming members of Netflix in the UK or Ireland can go to www.netflix.com to sign up to receive an email alert letting them know when Netflix has launched in their country.

Semiannual IPTV Global Forecast Shows Robust Growth to 2015 Using Multi-Screen Services

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:57:19 +0000

MRG, Inc., reports that the global IPTV market will grow to US$49 billion in service revenues and 113 million subscribers in 2015—as multi-screen video usage drives wireless services to new highs.

Systems revenue for the 7 key CapEx IPTV products analyzed will grow to US$4.8 billion in 2015, with STBs (set-top boxes) representing about 60%.

As consumers add Wi-Fi for using smart devices within their homes, market growth continues largely due to trends toward mobile lifestyle habits of 18-55-year-olds.

Based on semiannual updates of major global Operators and their differentiating services and updated subscriber counts, Europe remains ahead of Asia in 2015 in IPTV subscribers, partially due to continued regulatory confusion in Asia. By 2015 worldwide, at least 25 IPTV Operators will have over 1 million subscribers, with 9 having over 3 million, the U.S. having 2 Operators with over 7.5 million each and Europe having 12 IPTV Operators with over 1 million each. In a country-by-country analysis, Eastern Europe shows noteworthy resilience and innovation as illustrated by Romania's 141% subscriber growth over one year ago.

Smart TVs are still not impacting overall STB penetration, due to the difficulty of TV makers in getting enough content-rights and due to the slow replacement cycle of TVs in most parts of the world (making Smart TVs obsolete for new services). Generally IPTV Operators are using integrated hybrid services (merging Satellite, DTT [Digital Terrestrial], IPTV and OTT [Streaming Video]) both defensively and offensively, often using a combination of these to supplement their IPTV services in an integrated EPG. By offering integrated hybrid services, IPTV Operators are able to offer additional integrated services not available on Smart TVs. Vodafone Germany, for example, is offering IPTV and Satellite, while using Broadband to offer VOD. In Australia, Telstra is using DTT for linear TV and the customers' Broadband service to deliver (streaming) movies from its BigPond service.

More details are available at www.mrgco.com/iptv/gf0811.html.

US Cellular Launches Mobile TV Service Powered By MobiTV

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 22:40:09 +0000

Delivering on the increasing demand for mobile media services, U.S. Cellular has launched U.S. Cellular Mobile TV, powered by MobiTV.

U.S. Cellular Mobile TV, a downloadable application, features live TV, video-on-demand programming and the option to download content for offline viewing. Subscribers will have access to top programming from ABC, CBS, NBC, ESPN, The Disney Channel, MTV, Comedy Central and more. In addition to the core entertainment package consisting of news, sports and other select entertainment, genre-specific content packages are also available, including a Spanish-speaking package featuring content from Univision and other providers, and a children's programming package featuring premium content from Nickelodeon, PBS Kids and more.

"Our partnership with MobiTV represents another opportunity for us to delight customers with quality TV entertainment whenever and wherever they want," said Joe Settimi, Senior Director of Data Strategy and Services for U.S. Cellular. "Additionally, U.S. Cellular Mobile TV will operate on our high-speed nationwide network so users can access information quickly and enjoy everything their cell phone has to offer."

U.S. Cellular Mobile TV provides subscribers with access to compelling features powered by the latest version of MobiTV, Inc.'s converged media platform. These include an enhanced user interface for simple discovery, providing subscribers with tools to create a more personalized experience, and the ability to download and store content for offline viewing.

"Being selected by one of America's top carriers not only showcases the strength of the MobiTV technology platform, but also the demand for a reliable and flexible platform on which a service can grow upon," said Charlie Nooney, CEO, MobiTV, Inc

AT&T U-verse TV & Verizon FiOS TV First to Launch Starz Entertainment's Newest Premium Channel, Encore Espanol

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 20:59:48 +0000

Starz Entertainment's newest premium movie channel, ENCORE ESPANOL, launched today as part of the ENCORE family of services on AT&T U-verse® TV and Verizon's FiOS TV.

ENCORE ESPANOL offers the same great schedule of Hollywood hits and favorite movie programming found on ENCORE, the nation's most popular premium channel with more than 33 million subscribers. ENCORE ESPANOL broadcasts its movie programming in Spanish 24/7, uncut and commercial-free.

"AT&T and Verizon will benefit greatly with the launch of ENCORE ESPANOL and enjoy a distinct competitive advantage in the markets in which they serve communities with Spanish-language households," said Ed Huguez, executive vice president, sales and affiliate marketing. "U-verse TV & FiOS TV are the first to offer this great addition to the Encore suite of channels and are well positioned to grow their respective premium businesses. "We look forward to working with our other affiliates to secure additional launches of the new channel in the future. The ultimate winners, of course, are the Spanish-language households that get to enjoy a great new service with a wide range of premium movie – and now also original - content that will appeal across the family."

"We are proud to be one of the first TV providers to offer ENCORE ESPANOL to our U-verse TV Spanish-language customers," said Franz Kurath, associate vice president, AT&T Content. "We know that Spanish-language programming is important to our subscribers, and with compelling movies and original content, ENCORE ESPANOL is a great addition to the U-verse TV lineup."

"Verizon is very pleased that we are now able to carry ENCORE ESPANOL with its movies and original programming for our FiOS TV Spanish-speaking households. This adds an important dimension to our overall Spanish language programming. We look forward to our continued partnership with Starz Entertainment and ENCORE to bring the best in viewing to our customers," said Verizon director of multicultural marketing Oscar Madrid.

Top movies on ENCORE ESPANOL include a wide -range of recent hit Hollywood movies including Alice in Wonderland, Up, 2012, The Bounty Hunter, and The Princess and the Frog, and other popular films including The Fast and the Furious, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Nothing Like the Holidays, The Bourne Identity, Gangs of New York, City Island, Brooklyn's Finest, and The Scorpion King.

The first ENCORE Original, the "Moby Dick" mini-series, premieres exclusively on ENCORE and ENCORE ESPANOL on August 1 at 8pm ET/PT. "Moby Dick" is an on-screen adaption of Herman Melville's novel and features cast members including Academy Award® Winner William Hurt, Academy Award® Nominee Ethan Hawke, and Gillian Anderson.

AT&T U-verse Customers Get More HD and International Channels

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:06:40 +0000

AT&T* U-verse® TV customers now have access to 10 new channels in their channel lineup, including international programming, movie channels and five High Definition (HD) channels.

The new channels include:

FOX Soccer HD, FOX Sports Arizona HD, fuse HD, GolTV HD, and Nat Geo WILD HD with qualifying HD packages. With more than 170 HD channels, U-verse TV has more HD channels than anyone.**
Spanish-language channel Nat Geo Mundo and Utilisima, available for U200 Latino and Paquete Espanol subscribers.
ENCORE ESPANOL, available in the U300 package and above.
Aapka Colors, India's general entertainment channel, bringing viewers a combination of fiction, non-fiction and Bollywood programming. Add to any U-verse TV package for $15 a month.
MTV Arabia, available soon for U-verse TV customers, blends pop music from the Middle East and North Africa with classic and new MTV programs, with Arabic subtitles. Add to any U-verse TV package for $5 a month.
MOVIEPLEX, part of the Starz Movie Package offering, available in the U300 package and above.

U-verse TV customers can choose from seven TV packages featuring up to 400 channels. You can watch content across screens and devices with U-verse Online, AT&T U-verse TV on Xbox 360, and U-verse Mobile, an app that lets you manage your DVR, and for qualifying TV customers, watch hit TV shows on more than 20 devices.

AT&T U-verse TV is the fastest growing TV service in the country and the only 100 percent Internet Protocol-based television (IPTV) service offered by a national service provider. Now AT&T U-verse TV ranks "Highest in Customer Satisfaction in the North Central, South and West Regions," according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Residential Television Service Provider Satisfaction Studies(SM).

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

**Claim based on number of 24/7 non pay-per-view HD channels.

Vision IPTV Extends Reach to Roku Internet Set Top Box Platform

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 14:30:00 +0000

Vision IPTV supports fastest growing internet set top box in the market
Broadcasting directly to around 2 million homes in the US
Subscription, pay-per-view or free to air live TV or video

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Vision IPTV today unveiled the latest addition to its suite of services for broadcasters: the addition of Roku capability to Vision IPTV’s platform for delivery of internet TV and video. This enables broadcasters and video content owners to extend the reach of their broadcast services to a rapidly expanding North American audience who own a Roku set top box.

Delivering an unrivalled user experience, the Roku streaming player is an easy to use and cost effective way for anyone to enjoy internet TV and video on their TV set, as well as popular on demand services like NetFlix and Hulu. Roku is proving a huge success in the US, where it recently served its one billionth stream, and expects to have sold some 3 million units by the end of the year.

Vision IPTV has extended the capability of its online video platform for broadcasters and content owners to include broadcast to Roku users, as well as the upcoming Roku 2 player. This allows for a short turnaround in enabling channels or video on demand to be set up and added to the Roku app store as subscription, pay-per-view or free to air.

John Mills, CEO of Vision IPTV, said: “Roku has proved a huge success in the US, offering simple and cost effective access to TV and on demand services over the internet. International broadcasters can now extend their reach to Roku users, streaming live TV or delivering video libraries through Vision IPTV’s platform for broadcast quality internet TV and video delivery.”

Broadcasters can use Vision IPTV’s platform to customise programme schedules, geographical delivery, billing and advertising. Vision IPTV’s traditional broadcast monitoring facilities serve to actively monitor content streaming, ensuring broadcasts are of the highest possible quality and reliability.

Vision IPTV’s platform supports all of the most popular IP and hybrid set top boxes and devices in the market, enabling broadcasters to deliver compelling TV services to new markets and audiences.

Contacts

XL communications
Chris Bignell
Tel. +44(0)7834-020-460
Email:

Source: Vision IPTV

View this news release online at:
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20110721005772/en

New AT&T U-verse TV App Puts Quick and Convenient Support at Customers' Fingertips

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 09:44:56 +0000

AT&T has announced a new TV app that gives AT&T U-verse customers convenient access to self-support information and tools for their AT&T U-verse TV service directly from their TV screen — another way AT&T is delivering a better experience to U-verse customers.

AT&T is rolling out the AT&T Troubleshoot & Resolve app under "Help" in the U-verse TV menu. The on-screen TV app is rolling out on a market-by-market basis over the next few weeks and:

• Provides you with an up-to-date status of your U-verse TV service with a U-verse Service Check.
• Offers simple step-by-step guides, including images and tips, to address common questions.
• And allows you to request a call from a customer service agent if you have any questions, with the click of your remote control.

"In multiple studies on customer service, our AT&T U-verse customers consistently rank us at the top, and we wanted to take that even further by giving them fast, convenient support and service information with an easy-to-use app where they need it, on their TV screen," said Jeff Weber, vice president of video services for AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets.
"This latest app is an innovative way we're communicating directly with U-verse customers about their services, with just a click of the remote. It shows how we're putting the U-verse customer first and using the unique benefits of our all-IP technology to integrate your TV and customer service experiences."

The app is available to all U-verse customers at no extra charge.

In addition to making U-verse support accessible through an interactive TV app, AT&T makes it easy for U-verse customers to make changes to their subscription from their TV screen. With U-verse TV Account Manager application, launched in August 2010, U-verse customers can quickly and easily make U-verse TV package upgrades, compare TV packages, view channel lineups, view their account summary, view product overviews and ordering information on U-verse High Speed Internet and U-verse Voice, and more with a click of their remote. U-verse TV customers can set parental controls to manage what their family orders through the Account Manager app.

AT&T Expands Multi-Screen Content from Turner Networks

Mon, 23 May 2011 15:11:28 +0000

AT&T today announced the addition of new Turner content on U-verse Online, an entertainment website available at att.net/uverseonline, and on Turner websites.

U-verse TV customers that log-in to these various sites can now access hit TV shows from Turner networks, including TBS, TNT, truTV, Cartoon Network and Adult Swim. Programs from these popular networks will be available to AT&T U-verse subscribers within 24 hours after an episode airs.

Nearly a year after its launch, U-verse Online has grown its content lineup by more than 50 percent and offers more than 25,000 full-length TV episodes. Just last month, more than 1 million videos were streamed from the site.

"Our content lineup continues to expand on every screen, and the compelling content from Turner is a great addition to U-verse Online," said Dan York, president of content, AT&T. "This is another example of how we continue to secure rights from leading content providers to make TV shows available to U-verse TV customers on TV, online and on mobile devices. And we continue to work with additional content providers to bring more cross-platform content to customers."

"We are excited to provide viewers of our popular networks one more avenue to watch all of their favorite TV content when and where they want with AT&T U-verse," said Jeremy Legg, senior vice president of Business Development and Multi-Platform Distribution for Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. (TBS, Inc.). "Given the rapid deployment of tablets and the ability of mobile devices to display long-form video directly from websites, TV Everywhere is more important than ever."

AT&T U-verse TV subscribers can access Turner's online programming through AT&T U-verse (att.net/uverseonline) and directly on the TBS (tbs.com/tveverywhere), TNT (tnt.tv/tveverywhere), truTV trutv.com/tveverywhere), Cartoon Network (cartoonnetwork.com/tveverywhere) and Adult Swim (adultswim.com/tveverywhere) sites. Turner provides AT&T U-verse subscribers with next-day online access to significant HD/SD content that is C3 enabled. Popular content includes such shows as The Closer, Southland, Meet the Browns, Robot Chicken, Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Ben 10: Ultimate Alien, Generator Rex, Hot Pursuit and Operation Repo.

U-verse Online lets any online user watch more than 160,000 titles of TV shows, movies and video clips on your PC, and gives U-verse TV customers access to additional features that enhance their entertainment experience. For example, you can:

• Instantly schedule recordings for your U-verse DVR at home.
• Easily see which of your DVR recordings are also available to view on U-verse Online.
• Check your installation or service appointment status with the "Where's my tech" tool.
• Set parental controls for the site.
• Personalize their weather, sports, traffic and stock preferences for their U-verse TV AT&T U-bar feature.
• Pay your U-verse bill.

AT&T continues to expand the ways for U-verse TV customers to enjoy and control their U-verse services, from wherever they are, with hit TV shows and integrated features available on U-verse TV, U-verse Mobile, U-verse Online and U-verse TV on Xbox 360. In March, AT&T was awarded an IP&TV World Award for Best Multiscreen TV Service.

AT&T U-verse TV is the only 100 percent Internet Protocol-based television (IPTV) service offered by a national service provider, making AT&T U-verse one of the most dynamic and feature-rich services available today.

AT&T U-verse TV Premieres French Open Multiview

Mon, 23 May 2011 14:27:01 +0000

For true tennis fans, there's only one way to enjoy all the action at the French Open this year — and that's watching multiple matches on up to four courts at once and choosing which to follow with the French Open Multiview on U-verse® TV.

AT&T today announced the launch of AT&T U-verse TV's French Open Multiview, an interactive TV app that lets U-verse customers view up to four different courts of French Open matches at one time, choosing from the Tennis Channel's main broadcast and five courts.

"AT&T U-verse Multiview is changing how customers watch TV and watch their favorite sports," said Chris Lauricella, assistant vice president of content, AT&T. "The French Open is a great event to feature in our U-verse Multiview app so, together with the Tennis Channel, we can bring customers the exciting matches from every court. With U-verse TV's flexible IP platform, the possibilities are endless, and we continue to find new and innovative ways to put customers in the director's seat for their favorite events and content."

French Open Multiview gives you the ability to choose which of the six channels is the main picture, and easily select and record any French Open channel from within the Multiview. The app is available throughout the tournament on channel 661 at no extra charge to U-verse customers, and the additional courts are on channels 662-666.

To bring the French Open to even more tennis fans, U-verse TV is also giving customers a free preview of the Tennis Channel on channel 660 from May 22-31. French Open Multiview and the Tennis Channel free preview will both be available to U-verse TV customers with a U-family package or higher.

AT&T U-verse TV customers can also watch the French Open tournament for the first time in 3D. The Tennis Channel will broadcast all matches from center court in 3D during Memorial Day Weekend, May 28-30, for 21 hours of live 3D match coverage. The Tennis Channel's French Open 3D coverage is available on channel 1667 for U-verse customers who subscribe to HD service and the 3D package.

"Tennis Channel has always put a priority on delivering as much tennis as possible to television audiences, and AT&T U-verse Multiview furthers that mission," said Patrick Wilson, senior vice president, distribution, Tennis Channel. "We're really excited that tennis fans who subscribe to AT&T U-verse will have so many options during this year's French Open. It is one of the most exciting championship events in all of sports, and the more we can allow fans to watch the matches they prefer, the better."

AT&T U-verse TV uses 100-percent Internet Protocol (IP) technology, which allows AT&T to deliver advanced interactive apps such as Multiviews. AT&T introduced the award-winning Multiview app in fall 2009, and launched the My Multiview app in June, which lets customers choose and watch up to four of their favorite channels at once on their TV screen. Customers also enjoy Sports Multiview, Kids Multiview and News Multiview at no extra cost as part of every package.

AT&T U-verse TV includes many features that improve the TV watching experience for any sports fan, including Total Home DVR, which lets you watch and manage recordings from a single DVR on any connected TV in the house; access to an extensive High Definition (HD) channel lineup with more than 160 HD channels and growing; fast channel change, which lets you channel surf without the delay experienced on other digital TV services; picture-in-picture browse capability that lets you preview games on other channels; and the ability to follow your favorite sports teams through the AT&T U-bar.

UTStarcom Launches End-to-End Internet TV Solution

Sun, 22 May 2011 12:24:15 +0000

UTStarcom, Inc. (Nasdaq: UTSI), a leading provider of interactive, IP-based network solutions in iDTV, IPTV, Internet TV and Broadband for cable and telecom operators, has announced that it has launched its end-to-end Internet TV solution, and also won its first commercial contract to build up an Internet TV platform in Northern China.

The new end-to-end Internet TV solution is derived from UTStarcom's core RollingStream® technology system. The Company's Internet TV solution, based on cloud computing technology, has an open system structure, reliable service and flexibility to expand for large scale deployments in the future. The innovative technology of the solution can enable the customer to easily operate, manage and control the system and subscriber information. "We believe this is the best time for us to launch our Internet TV solution which will hopefully help us capture the great growth opportunity of the Internet TV market," said Jack Lu, President and CEO of UTStarcom.

The Company also won its first commercial contract to build a new Internet TV platform for a local cable operator in Northern China.

Pursuant to the contract, UTStarcom will help to build a comprehensive Internet TV operational system which includes a broadcasting control platform, content distribution network and terminal. The Internet TV platform UTStarcom is building will provide a service where subscribers can access Internet, multimedia and telecommunications, as well as interactive digital TV, video-on-demand, and many other services under one subscription. This platform will help UTStarcom's cable operator clients to further increase their revenue opportunities through an enhanced subscriber experience. Users will be able to receive rich and clear voice and data information, as well as experience high-quality video services simultaneously. This new solution could also be applied to the Internet TV platform, which is targeted to launch later this year through UTStarcom's majority-owned subsidiary, iTV Media Inc.

"We are also delighted to win our first commercial contract in the Internet TV market. This proves that our corporate strategy is in line with the development of the industry," said Mr. Lu. "This victory demonstrates the competitive advantage of our Rolling Stream system, supporting our position in China as a leading provider of interactive, IP-based network solutions in iDTV, IPTV, and Internet TV."

AT&T Upgrades U-verse Total Home DVR to Control Live TV on any TV in the Home

Tue, 17 May 2011 14:26:11 +0000

AT&T continues to expand the ways U-verse TV customers can control and watch their TV shows. AT&T today announced the launch of new AT&T U-verse TV Total Home DVR features which give U-verse customers the ability to pause and rewind live TV on any U-verse receiver in the home.

Most DVRs today control only the TV they're connected to, and other multi-room DVRs only allow you to record and play back shows on other TVs. However, with AT&T U-verse Total Home DVR's latest enhancements, customers can control, record and play back shows on non-DVR TVs and pause or rewind live TV shows from any room in their home, even when the DVR is connected to a different TV. The new features are currently available in Mobile, Ala., and Grand Rapids, Mich., and are rolling out on a market-by-market basis to all U-verse TV customers over the next few months.

"We're taking our award-winning Total Home DVR service one step further to bring customers an even better DVR experience," said Jeff Weber, vice president of video services, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "Whether it's the number of shows you can record at once, how you program your DVR, or the ability to watch your favorite shows on any TV, online or away from home — we're delivering a better DVR experience, and these new Total Home DVR features are just the latest example."

AT&T was the first provider to introduce the ability to watch recorded shows from a single DVR on any connected TV in the home when it launched AT&T U-verse Total Home DVR in 2008. U-verse Total Home DVR lets you record up to four shows at once on a single DVR, record and play back your shows in any room, schedule and manage recordings from any room in your home, and more.

These latest enhancements are examples of how AT&T U-verse is mobilizing the DVR experience. Customers can manage recordings on any connected TV in the home and across devices with U-verse Mobile and U-verse Online. With U-verse Mobile, customers can schedule and manage DVR recordings, browse the U-verse TV program guide, view program descriptions, and, on qualifying smartphones, download and watch many hit TV shows, and even stream some shows.

U-verse Online is AT&T's entertainment website which lets you watch more than 100,000 titles of TV shows, movies and video clips on your PC, and gives U-verse TV customers the flexibility to schedule and manage DVR recordings. If you're away from home and want to see which of your recordings are also available to watch on U-verse Online, you can select "My U-verse DVR" to see the episodes and movies that are available to watch instantly on the site.

MLB.TV Serves One Billion Video Streams

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 16:39:28 +0000

As one of the largest subscription video offerings on the Internet, MLB.TV has served one billion live video streams since its inception, 25% of which were delivered in 2010 alone.

The 2011 season packages for MLB.TV are on sale now at MLB.com, the official Web site of Major League Baseball.

"Fans have continued to demonstrate, in record numbers, their desire to consume live baseball in the most convenient ways possible," said Noah Garden, Executive Vice President, Revenue, MLB.com. "We remain committed to expanding MLB.TV for our subscribers by leveraging emerging technological platforms and partnerships that deliver a rich experience."

In 2011, fans will be able to follow every game wherever they are with MLB.TV support across a variety of mobile and connected platforms, including iPhone, iPod touch, iPad and Android devices through the top-selling MLB.com At Bat apps for each and Sony PS3 and other connected devices. Additional platform offerings for MLB.TV live streaming will be announced as they become available.

Along with portability, this year's product offers subscribers a host of cutting-edge features in the award-winning MLB.TV media player, delivering a dynamic live viewing experience for every out-of-market regular season game. Those include:

• HD Quality Picture – Speed detection technology delivers live high definition video at the industry standard of 720p on any size monitor.
• Home and Away Feeds – Watch either the home or away teams' broadcasts.
• Alternate Audio Options – Overlay the home or away teams' radio broadcasts over the live video or use the "Park" option to include the ballpark's natural sounds.
• Live Game DVR Functionality – Pause and rewind or fast-forward live games.
• Clickable Linescores – Go directly to any at-bat or half-inning of a game.
• Multi-Game Viewing Options – Watch up to four games simultaneously.
• Picture-in-Picture – Choose one game and track another or watch in-game highlights simultaneously in a secondary window.
• Live Game Highlights – Real-time highlights and player stats automatically load into the media player. With one click, the clip instantly launches in a picture-in-picture window.
• Player Tracker – Customize a list to feature entire fantasy rosters and receive on-deck notifications to watch live at-bat look-ins for each player.
• Spring Training – Watch about 150 live games from Florida and Arizona.

Global 2010 IPTV Subscribers ans Revenue Surpass Expectations for Third Year

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 22:45:59 +0000

The new IPTV Global Forecast (December 2010) reveals that the number of global IPTV subscribers will grow from 44 million at the end of 2010 to 111.5 million in 2014, a compound annual growth rate of 26%.

The forecast shows that Europe will be the regional leader, with 42% of the worldwide IPTV subscribers total in 2014, maintaining its lead mostly because of the sheer number of large Tier-1 Service Providers, and because of continued strong IPTV growth in some countries.

"Faster growth is mostly driven by proliferation of Triple-Play, improved DSL/Fiber Broadband capacity, accelerated install time, continued improvement in QoS/QoE, and additional premium HD content," said Jose Alvear, MRG IPTV Analyst. "The Telco TV upgrades, all based on the globally standardized IP protocol technology, are continually improving while costs are dropping or remaining stable, allowing further investments by the Operators at an advanced rate."

Overall, the service revenue forecast for the global IPTV market is US$17.8 billion in 2010 and is forecasted to grow to US$47.9 billion in 2014, a compound annual growth rate of 28%, a 1% CAGR increase since the last report. By 2014, Europe and North America will generate a larger share of the global revenue, due to very low ARPUs in Asia.

The global forecast for all six IPTV system segments (plus System Integration) required to support IPTV services grows from US$3.4 billion in 2010 to US$5.7 billion in 2014, yielding a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%, which is a 0.7% CAGR increase since the last report. The market for IPTV services and equipment will have ample opportunities as new IPTV services are rolled out, and as Service Providers grow and need additional software and systems.

More details are available at www.mrgco.com/iptv/gf1210.html.

AT&T Connects Families With Santa via U-verse TV

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 14:28:25 +0000

Put the postage stamps and pencils away this year, tech-savvy Santa is here (again)! According to sources from the North Pole, AT&T's holiday texting campaign and AT&T U-verse® TV Santa Tracker app were such a success for Santa last year that he decided to once again use these digital tools to keep in touch and spread good cheer.

Between now and Dec. 24, AT&T's wireless customers can text "SANTA" to 1224 and receive a season's greeting from Santa Claus himself, asking them to please respond back with their holiday wish-lists. In return, Santa will send another special holiday message. And, in keeping with the spirit of giving, the entire text conversation with Santa is free.

Adding to the season's festivities, U-verse TV families can once again visit the North Pole and follow Santa around the globe on Christmas Eve with the return of Santa Tracker on channel 98. U-verse TV customers can interact with Santa and the North Pole in a number of ways, including:

Vote in the "Naughty or Nice" poll
Play sing-a-longs and read-a-longs for popular holiday music and stories
Listen to holiday songs on "Rudolph Radio"
Play holiday games presented by discovery.com/toys
Watch real-time reports from the Santa News Network to see if Santa has left the North Pole and track his sleigh as he travels around the globe

The Santa Tracker app is available at no extra cost to all AT&T U-verse TV customers with an AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet account.

"Santa is recognized for keeping many traditions – like enjoying milk and cookies – but last year, he quickly saw the benefits of texting and loved the added excitement of sharing a sneak peak of North Pole activity with good little boys and girls," said Susan Bean, chief communications officer for Santa. "When AT&T approached Santa again this year with these easy and fun ways to reach his adoring public, Santa immediately agreed it was a perfect way to connect with today's tech-savvy believers."

Pyramid Launches IPTV Market Sizing Service

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 13:58:39 +0000

Pyramid Research is proud to introduce the first product in its Research in Focus series - an in-depth analysis of the IPTV market.

Research in Focus: IPTV helps leaders in the communications industry identify emerging opportunities in IPTV markets around the world. It offers analysis of IPTV subscription trends, as well as ARPS and revenue trends for the 2006-2015 period. Market sizing estimates and forecasts are provided at the global, regional, and country level, with more than 50 countries covered in our study. We also identify the top global IPTV service providers. The Research in Focus Report is delivered in PowerPoint format and accompanied by an Excel file that contains all the data underlying the report.

"IPTV has evolved in recent years from a niche technology into a major disruptive force in the larger pay-TV sector, particularly in developed markets," says Leslie Arathoon, Director of Product Development for Pyramid Research. "In France, where IPTV has been most successful, the technology currently accounts for 42 percent of total pay-TV accounts. Further, although IPTV services have gained momentum from developed markets, the largest opportunities for IPTV over the long term are in emerging markets, where the penetration of households by pay-TV services remains low," she explains. "In 2011, for example, we expect China to replace France as the world's largest IPTV market, a position it will maintain throughout the forecast period. Relying on our industry-renowned forecasts that provide the most comprehensive demand, growth, and market share tracking services available for 100 markets, Pyramid is in a perfect position to offer such analysis to its clients."

Key elements of this new offering include:

Major highlights per quarter
Subscription trends: Global and regional overview
Subscription trends: Regional penetrations
Subscription trends: Largest markets globally
IPTV as a share of pay-TV
Top 15 IPTV service providers worldwide
ARPS trends
ARPS trends: Comparisons with DTH/cable
Revenue trends: Global and regional overview

A blend of primary research, market indicators, and qualitative analysis, the Research in Focus series stays true to Pyramid's corporate objectives by offering comprehensive unparalleled coverage on emerging technologies, markets, and business models, focusing on the topics that matter most to the key players in the global communications industry.

Frost & Sullivan Recognizes ZTE with the Best Practice Award - 2010 IPTV Equipment Vendor of the Year

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 11:16:57 +0000

Frost & Sullivan Best Practice Award - 2010 IPTV Equipment Vendor of the Year was presented to ZTE Corporation (ZTE) in the Internet protocol television (IPTV) equipment market in recognition of the company's remarkable efforts toward the development of the IPTV equipment market.

With the development of the global broadband market, IPTV content and application have become more important. As one of the latest broadband applications, IPTV has gained considerable attention around the industry. As Europe, Asia, and North America have started to experiment and telecast TV programs through the IP transmission network, the IPTV equipment market is likely to witness rapid growth.

In H1 2010, the global IPTV penetration rate was 7.8 percent. Revenues for the world IPTV equipment market increased from $0.45 billion in 2005 to $12.1 billion in 2009, with an average annual growth rate of 127.7 percent.

In terms of subscriber base, the world IPTV equipment market is expected to maintain a high growth rate in the next four years. Global IPTV subscribers are likely to increase to 62.0 million by the end of 2010 and 268.0 million in 2014, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 44.1 percent. Apart from the markets in Europe and the United States, the IPTV equipment market in Asia also has witnessed a gradual large-scale growth, especially in the south and East Asia. With the rapid growth in the number of IPTV subscribers, Asia has become the world's most important emerging IPTV equipment market.

ZTE has strong presence in certain regional markets such as Asia, South America, and the Middle East. Although competition in the IPTV equipment market is intense, ZTE ranked No.3 in the global IPTV middleware market due to its excellent technology, complete end-to-end solutions, and good relationships with broadband carriers. Meanwhile, with great progress in the emerging markets, ZTE ranked No.1 in the Asian and Chinese IPTV middleware markets in H1 2010.

Due to the advantages of complete end-to-end solutions, triple-play applications, and low operating cost, ZTE is likely to witness increase in its share in the European and North American markets. The company is also likely to meet carriers' demand for low operating cost during the economic crisis.

In conclusion, ZTE's continuous focus on R&D, significant dominance in the Asian IPTV equipment market, extensive resources of carrier clients, and customized invention can help meet clients' demands. In recognition of its remarkable efforts in the IPTV middleware market, Frost & Sullivan is honored to present ZTE with the Best Practice Award - 2010 IPTV Equipment Vendor of the Year.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has carried out new research, which has resulted in innovations that have or are expected to bring significant contributions to the industry in terms of adoption, change, and competitive posture. This award recognizes the quality and depth of a company's R&D program as well as the vision and risk-taking tendency that enabled it to undertake such an endeavor.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practice Award recognizes companies in a variety of regional and world markets for their outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

AT&T U-verse TV Customers Get Full Access to HBO GO and MAX GO

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 18:05:13 +0000

In another move to make TV content available in more places, AT&T today announced that AT&T U-verse TV customers now have full access to HBOGO.com and MAXGO.com, HBO and Cinemax's online video destinations featuring more than 1,200 hours of streamed programming.

Beginning today, U-verse TV residential customers who subscribe to HBO and/or Cinemax will automatically receive free, unlimited online access to HBO and Cinemax programming, respectively, at any time, from any U.S. location. You can access HBO GO and MAX GO with your U-verse TV log-in ID and password at HBO GO, MAX GO, and soon, U-verse Online.

"We're proud to deliver more value to U-verse TV subscribers by offering compelling content from HBO and Cinemax online," said Dan York, president of content, AT&T. "This latest U-verse enhancement is just one more way we're giving U-verse TV customers access to hit TV shows in more places — whether that's on their big screen HDTV, downloaded to their smartphone with U-verse Mobile, or one of the more than 130,000 titles at U-verse Online."

HBO GO and MAX GO will offer U-verse TV customers new titles immediately after premiering on HBO and Cinemax. HBO GO and MAX GO also give subscribers the ability to create a Watchlist that keeps track of bookmarked content for later viewing, extra content including interviews, recaps, and behind-the-scenes pieces; customizable views showing titles in slideshow, grid or list format; and Browse by Tags, a feature allowing users to find titles via keywords.

HBO GO and MAX GO complement HBO On Demand and Cinemax On Demand with four times more viewing choices. HBO GO offers HBO's acclaimed original series, HBO Films, miniseries, documentaries, HBO Sports and blockbuster movies. MAX GO allows AT&T U-verse TV customers to instantly watch the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, indies, cult favorites and MAX After Dark series. On both services, all programming is in HD.

HBO GO and MAX GO are the latest additions to the wide selection of programming available across multiple screens for AT&T U-verse TV customers. AT&T is making TV watching available across devices, with hit TV shows available on U-verse TV, U-verse Online, U-verse TV on Xbox 360, and more than 10 qualifying smartphones with U-verse Mobile.

AT&T U-verse Online features more than 130,000 titles of TV shows, movies and video clips available for any online user on your PC. U-verse TV customers can also schedule DVR recordings directly from U-verse Online and see which of their recorded shows are available to watch online.

With U-verse Mobile, you can schedule and manage DVR recordings and, with certain U-verse TV packages, download hit TV shows on your smartphone and watch them anywhere you want.

Mobile Content Venture Announces Commitment to Roll Out Mobile TV Service in 20 Markets by the end of 2011

Sat, 20 Nov 2010 13:27:06 +0000

Mobile Content Venture (MCV), a joint venture of 12 major broadcasters, today announced a commitment to upgrade TV stations in 20 DMAs in order to deliver live video to portable devices.

By late 2011, the venture will deliver mobile video service in markets representing more than 40% of the US population. The service will initially consist of at least two ad-supported free-to-consumer channels in each market. Additional channels and markets are expected to be added over time.

In 2011, MCV expects to offer the mobile video service in the following markets: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Dallas, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Houston, Detroit, Tampa, Phoenix, Minneapolis, Orlando, Portland, Cincinnati, Greenville, West Palm Beach, Birmingham, and Knoxville.

"Live, local video will ultimately be a key part of mobile services," said Salil Dalvi, co-GM of MCV. "Upgrading our stations for mobile is an important first step in making this a reality."

"Our commitment to launch in 20 markets, including 13 of the top 15 DMAs, is a significant and necessary step in building a viable commercial mobile TV business that delivers a comprehensive product to viewers," added Erik Moreno, co-GM of MCV. "We welcome the opportunity to work with Fox and NBC affiliates, as well as additional broadcasters, in rolling out many more markets."

In order to receive the mobile video service, consumers will need a device capable of receiving a specific type of mobile video broadcast, encrypted with conditional access. MCV is working with various OEMs and device manufacturers to ensure these devices are available in the second half of 2011.

According to the market research firm In-Stat, the U.S. mobile DTV sector will experience solid growth over the next few years, with more than 30 million ATSC Mobile DTV devices expected to be deployed by 2014.

MCV's mobile video service complements the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) National Broadband Initiative. MCV offers consumers access to mobile video content by utilizing existing broadcast spectrum from its launch partners to offer a breadth of mobile video, including sports and entertainment content. The technology being deployed by MCV will permit all broadcasters, in a scalable manner, to deliver popular video content in a spectrally efficient manner as compared to wireless 3G and 4G technology. Additional markets, content and device partners are expected to be announced in the upcoming months.

AT&T U-verse Mobile App Launches on Windows Phone 7 Devices

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 16:44:31 +0000

AT&T has launched AT&T U-verse® Mobile for Windows Phone 7 devices, including the HTC Surround, Samsung Focus™, and soon, the LG Quantum™.

The popular U-verse Mobile app is preloaded so that any AT&T wireless customer with a Windows Phone can download and watch hit TV shows on their device, marking the first time an AT&T U-verse service is available nationwide.

AT&T is making mobile viewing even easier for the holidays with two special offers. Any AT&T Windows Phone user can log-in to U-verse Mobile by Dec. 31 and download and watch free for 30days. Once the trial is complete, customers taking advantage of this offer will automatically be subscribed to U-verse Mobile for $9.99 per month. Separately U-verse TV customers who subscribe to the U100, U200 and U200 Latino packages can take advantage of a limited time preview to download and watch with U-verse Mobile at no extra cost through Feb. 1, 2011. The preview offer is available to Uverse TV customers on all U-verse Mobile qualifying smartphones.

"There's no better way to stay entertained during the holiday travel season than to watch hit TV shows on the go for free with U-verse Mobile," said Jeff Weber, vice president of video services, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "We're excited for more AT&T customers to see what the U-verse experience is all about, and we'll continue to expand this app to even more customers and devices."

AT&T continues to expand TV watching to the devices that matter most to you, with hit TV shows available on U-verse TV, U-verse Online, U-verse TV on Xbox 360, and U-verse Mobile. U-verse Mobile is now available on more than 10 qualifying smartphone models and on four major mobile operating systems.

With U-verse Mobile, you can browse or search a library of downloadable shows, and select which specific episode you want to download. The selected content is downloaded to your mobile phone over any Wi-Fi connection, and you can then watch it on your device anywhere you want. All AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet customers have home Wi-Fi installed as part of their service and get access to AT&T's entire national Wi-Fi network at no additional cost.

For all AT&T U-verse TV customers, U-verse Mobile also lets you schedule and manage your DVR recordings at no extra cost. The ability to download and watch TV shows is available at no extra charge for customers that subscribe to the U300 package or higher.

U-verse TV customers can also watch TV shows, schedule DVR recordings and see which of their recorded shows are also available to watch online with U-verse Online. Any online user can watch more than 130,000 titles of TV shows, movies and video clips on your PC from the entertainment website.

U-verse Mobile is one of the latest ways that AT&T is mobilizing everything that's important to customers — their favorite content, apps, entertainment and social networks. AT&T today delivers the nation's fastest mobile broadband network as well as the nation's largest Wi-Fi network.

AT&T and Scripps Networks Reach Fair Programming Agreement

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 01:58:49 +0000

AT&T is pleased to have reached an agreement with Scripps Networks. HGTV, Food Network, DIY Network, Cooking Channel and GAC are now back on AT&T U-verse® TV.

We’re very satisfied that this is a fair deal that benefits our U-verse customers. The terms and costs of the deal recognize our growing subscriber base and give us the tools and content rights to compete with all other providers. We are very grateful to our customers for their support.

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates – AT&T operating companies – are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world.

With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries.

It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T │DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world.

In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE® magazine.

AT&T U-verse TV Customers Denied Fair Deal By Scripps Networks

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 13:41:32 +0000

AT&T U-verse® TV customers have been denied a fair deal for HGTV, Food Network, DIY Network, Cooking Channel and GAC programming by Scripps Networks, leaving AT&T without the rights to deliver these channels as of 1:00 a.m. EDT.

AT&T issued the following statement to update its customers:

We're extremely disappointed that Scripps Networks won't provide a fair deal for AT&T customers. Our team has been working for weeks to reach a fair agreement, but Scripps Networks ultimately refused to put in writing key terms that had been agreed upon verbally, leaving our customers without a fair deal as our extended contract expired.

Unfortunately, this is yet another example of a network punishing its own viewers for leverage in programming negotiations. Scripps Networks is demanding that AT&T pay double what other competitors pay — including smaller-sized affiliates — and has yet to provide a proposal that gives AT&T a choice in the channels we carry and pay for, despite repeated requests.

Scripps Networks also wants this premium price for inferior access to their content for our customers on other platforms, even though other competitors get this at much lower prices. With such an uneven playing field, they are harming AT&T's ability to provide customers with a new video choice.

We will continue to fight for a fair deal to bring these channels back to our lineup because our customers deserve the programming they want, at a fair price.

In the place of HGTV, Food Network, DIY Network, Cooking Channel and GAC during this time, AT&T U-verse customers can enjoy a free preview of the popular programming from TLC on channels 450/1450, Bravo on channels 452/1452, Planet Green on channels 454/1454, ION Life on channel 456/1456 and CMT Pure Country on channel 529.

AT&T U-verse Arrives in Decatur

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 02:26:13 +0000

Decatur residents now have a new choice for their television and communications services powered by advanced technology.

AT&T has announced the launch of AT&T U-verse® services in parts of Decatur, including AT&T U-verse TV, AT&T U-verse High Speed Internet and AT&T U-verse Voice. The services will be available for order beginning Monday, Nov. 1.

AT&T U-verse services, which are all delivered over AT&T's advanced Internet Protocol (IP) network, offer a new alternative to cable with a better DVR, better features and apps, and a better TV experience. AT&T U-verse brings together your TV, broadband, home phone and AT&T wireless services - all on one bill - with unique features that provide a new level of integration, convenience and control. And now, AT&T U-verse TV ranks "Highest in Residential Television Service Satisfaction in the South, Three Years in a Row," according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2008-2010 Residential Television Service Satisfaction Studies(SM).

"Today's expansion of AT&T U-verse reflects our commitment to make the investments necessary to bring consumers in Decatur a new era of true video competition," said Fred McCallum, AT&T Alabama president. "We are thrilled to offer this innovative video choice to Alabama customers. Local residents have asked for more choices in television service and today we're delivering."

"Cable has been the only game in town for too long, and we're excited to change that today in Alabama," said Joe Larussa, vice president and general manager, Consumer & Mobility Markets, Gulf States. "We know Decatur customers want a better choice to break free from cable, and AT&T U-verse is the answer. And we'll continue to make U-verse TV even better for customers with regular upgrades and new cool applications that enhance your TV experience."

NBA TV Launches on AT&T U-verse TV

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 02:23:45 +0000

AT&T and NBA Digital have announced the launch of NBA TV on AT&T U-verse® TV, giving customers access to the NBA season through live games and original programming.

NBA TV is available at no additional charge as part of the U-verse TV U300 package on channel 632 and part of the HD Technology fee on channel 1632.

NBA TV, the NBA's 24-hour television network, offers up to 275 live games throughout the year, more than any other professional sports league television network, and signature studio shows featuring an Emmy Award-winning roster of announcers. The network is a fan's all-access channel for everything basketball, delivering breaking news, scores, and original programming — in both standard definition and HD. As NBA TV tips off its 12th season, the network is now in approximately 55 million U.S. homes.

"We're proud to bring NBA TV to U-verse TV customers. It's a great addition to the U-verse TV channel lineup," said Dan York, president of content, AT&T. "This deal helps us with important strategic content initiatives and gives our U-verse TV customers access to even more exciting sports content, and in stunning HD."

"We're excited that NBA TV has been added to the U-verse TV channel lineup and U-verse customers will now have access to hundreds of live games, original programming, and a marquee lineup of on-air talent to satisfy their desire for basketball action throughout the year," said Bryan Perez, senior vice president and general manager, NBA Digital.

AT&T U-verse TV includes many features that enhance the game-watching experience for basketball fans. AT&T U-verse TV is the only 100 percent Internet Protocol-based television (IPTV) service offered by a national service provider, making AT&T U-verse one of the most dynamic and feature-rich services available today. Now AT&T U-verse TV ranks "Highest in Residential Television Service Satisfaction in the North Central, South and West Regions," according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Residential Television Service Provider Satisfaction Study(SM).

New Survey from Radius Global Market Research Identifies What's Driving the Continued Growth of Internet TV

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 13:17:53 +0000

As new Internet TV devices like the Logitech Revue and Sony Internet TV begin to arrive in stores just in time for the holiday shopping season, a new study by leading research firm Radius Global Market Research yields insights into consumer attitudes and usage behind the growing Internet TV segment.

"Internet TV represents one of the largest opportunities for marketers," says Chip Lister, Managing Director of Radius. "Our survey results show that a sizable number of consumers will increase the amount of time they spend accessing television content over the Internet."

While survey results revealed relatively high consumer interest in and intent to use devices and software that enable Internet TV viewing, the data also revealed two important issues that may be slowing the rate of consumer adoption.

Unique benefits of Internet TV are not obvious to all consumers

Consumers who currently watch Internet TV say that the flexibility it offers is its key advantage. Most respondents identified the ability to watch programming whenever they wanted as its most valued benefit. Being able to stop, pause, and replay shows also ranked high. A slightly smaller group enjoyed access to content not readily available on regular television.

While advantages may be evident to existing viewers, benefits are not so clear to those not currently watching Internet TV. Nearly two-thirds of these consumers say they do not see a clear benefit to accessing TV content via the Internet.

"Internet TV watchers are responding very favorably to the wide range of unique time- and function-based advantages offered by the devices and software," says Lister. "From our survey results, however, it's clear that the industry needs to step up communications about these benefits to consumers who've yet to give Internet TV a try."

Quality of Internet TV experience needs to improve

Half of Radius' survey audience indicated frustration with the lack of smoothness in streaming or buffering of content. More than 40-percent indicated that their lack of access to higher speed Internet connections kept them from spending more time accessing TV content. Another roughly two-fifths said that the cost of content kept them from downloading more.

"The majority of regular Internet TV watchers are still early adopters who will work to overcome some of the existing technology limitations," says Lister. "Manufacturers will have to work to eliminate current access hurdles in order for the general population to begin viewing on a regular basis."

Radius's Know More™ study was conducted in the third quarter of 2010 and surveyed U.S. consumers about usage and habits related to television viewing over the Internet. Radius's proprietary Know More™ panel represents over 3.4 million households, with over 6 million consumers in the U.S. and over 1.5 million consumers in Canada, the U.K. and Europe, Australia and Scandinavia.

About Radius Global Market Research

Radius Global Market Research (formerly Data Development Worldwide) is one of the largest independent market research companies in the U.S. The company's proprietary tools provide unique insights, effective processes and unmatched experience resulting in proven return on investment for leading global marketers in categories including: consumer products, financial services, pharmaceutical, communications, and traditional/new media.

The firm is No. 31 on the Honomichl listing of the top 50 U.S. market research organizations. Headquartered in New York, Radius employs more than 100 people in key markets throughout the U.S. and Europe. More information can be found at www.radius-global.com.