Global System for Mobile communications giant, MTN and Direct-To-Home Satellite television operator, MultiChoice are partnering to provide mobile television in the country.
Mr. Bola Akingbade, chief marketing officer, MTN said at the launch of the service in Lagos last week that the service currently exist via the 3G enabled TV streaming services and other composite technology services that can ride on the 2G / GSM platform.
He explained that the one that offers the best broadcast quality rides on the Digital Video Broadcasting – Handheld (DVB-H) technology, which is officially effective from March, 2008 and endorsed by the European Union as the preferred technology for terrestrial mobile broadcasting. MTN he said has struck a partnership with MultiChoice to deliver this technology across its operations in Africa and the Middle East.
He added that DStv Mobile from MTN is a unique offering, which offers the pleasures of Satellite TV with full broadcast quality everywhere you go. "This means, you can enjoy all your favourite DStv programmes on your mobile phone with the same clarity that characterizes your viewing pleasure when streamed on your normal TV at home. This innovative service is available only on the MTN Network," he said.
Access to this service requires the procurement of a special handset and a special SIM. However, the new handset/SIM can double as a mobile TV streaming device as well as a source of the normal voice/data services from the MTN 2G/3G Networks.
The service has a bouquet of 10programme channels that includes, NTA 2, CNN for local and international News. Other are Super Sports update; Super Sports 3, Super Sports 9 for Sports, and Channel 0 for Music. Magic World and Africa Magic for hilarious entertainment, Cartoon Network for cartoon programmes series, TBN for Christian Religious programme. Subscribers to this service are expected to a monthly subscription fee of N1, 500.
Mr. Collins Khumalo, managing director, MultiChoice Nigeria, said Nigeria is a key market for any serious player in Africa which drives the company in introducing innovations. He added that the service which is live in Lagos and Abuja will be extended to Ibadan and Port Harcourt soon.
