Soon after FLO TV goes dark, a joint venture of a dozen broadcasters plans to launch mobile TV services that will reach about 40% of the U.S. population. Mobile Content Venture announced plans to initially launch two ad-supported channels in 20 markets by late 2011.
The broadcasters will first have to upgrade their stations to deliver ATSC Mobile DTV signals to portable devices, a process that’s been years in the coming after various technology standard battles and trials.
“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.”
The group is hopeful is can convince device manufacturers to release compatible equipment by the second half of 2011. MCV expects to announce more markets, content and device partners in the coming months.
The first cities slated for the launch includes: 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.
Broadcasters plan mobile TV launch in late 2011
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