Alcatel and Path 1 Partner for Mobile TV

Yet another mobile TV deal, this one between Alcatel and video over internet protocols provider Path 1. The agreement will enable “the delivery of live broadcast TV programs to mobile devices over existing wireless operator networks”. The system takes a different tack to technologies such as DVB-H and MediaFLO by broadcasting over the mobile network. While DVB-H and MediaFLO argue that they can reduce the traffic on mobile (primarily 3G) networks by removing bandwidth-intensive TV to a different network, Alcatel and Path 1 are taking the position that carriers don’t need another network, they can use the one they have. “A key feature is the ability to output multiple bit rates and screen sizes from the digital input, allowing subscribers on different networks to view the same content simultaneously, using optimum encoding parameters for their network and device.” The companies appear to be offering a mobile TV service, rather than a way for carriers to host their own system. They’re working with the University of Washington to broadcast “original live programming”, including ResearchChannel, which broadcasts information on research.

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