Japan-based weather content provider Weathernews Inc. this week plans to launch a Java-based video application for users with Sprint Nextel Corp. multimedia phones.
The Weathernews Network will deliver personal video feeds of local weather news and conditions from local TV stations. The offering includes both traditional streaming content from TV feeds as well as weathercasts produced exclusively for wireless handsets.
The service will be available initially for users in Oklahoma with content from Griffin Communications’ local CBS affiliates before being deployed nationally. Weathernews said the offering is the first Java application to incorporate MPEG 4 video technology for mobile TV broadcasts.
Weathernews Network also delivers detailed weather information for more than 60,000 locations worldwide, color radar, extended forecasts, National Weather Service advisories and a vacation planner. The company is among a handful of content and messaging providers that are using local networks to target wireless users. U-Turn Media Group, a Czech Republic-based company, is hoping to team with U.S. TV stations to bring local newscasts to mobile handsets.
