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Spanish telecom giant Abertis is aiming to bring broadcast television to cell phone users. As the largest network of radio and television signal broadcasting and distribution sites in Spain, the company has been developing a Digital Video Broadcasting Handheld network (DVB-H). This network would enable phones with DVB-H receivers to read regular broadcast television signals. Users would be able to watch digital TV from their cell phones with no downloads, no streaming, and no internet connection. This breakthrough has the potential to change the way mobile users watch television and the way service companies bill for video services.

According to a February press release, Abertis “has also carried out six pilot programmes throughout Spain with the country’s leading radio broadcasters and mobile operators.” They also reportedly tested the mobile TV network during the Mobile World Congress, which was held in Barcelona in mid-February. Other companies have also started testing the new technology throughout Europe. Japan, perhaps the most advanced country in terms of mobile technology, has already deployed a similar network which is available for free. According to the Wall Street Journal, this service has already attracted 17 million users in the 18 months since it was introduced. If Abertis’s network is made available on a similar model, this could mean a huge jump in the number of users who access television through their mobile phones, particularly if service providers are willing to drop prices for data packages.

One promising development is Nokia’s announcement that the will put DVB-H technology in their new N96 phone model, as well as in current phones which already have TV capabilities. The N96 is getting great reviews from industry experts, due to its optimization for web video, TV, and multimedia files. It even features a “kick stand” so one could watch videos hands free. Nokia revealed the new phone at the Mobile World Congress, and it is expected to reach store shelves in Europe in late 2008, with U.S. distribution to follow.

The DVB-H network has been tested on very small scales in the U.S., and the success of mobile TV services largely depend on the willingness of mobile networks to provide free access to programming, since users are accustomed to watching TV free-of-charge. This debate is ongoing in Spain, where top television networks support advertising-based revenue through DVB-H, but mobile networks are hesitant to give up their large data fees. A spokesperson for Spain’s popular Antena 3 network told the Wall Street Journal, “The key for mobile TV is to offer free programming that is attractive and familiar in order to build a critical mass of viewers.”

If TV networks and mobile providers can come to terms about where their profits will be made, lucky commuters will be able to catch the morning weather report, or see highlights from last night’s game. Here’s hoping this innovative technology jumps the Atlantic sometime soon.

Friday, March 14th, 2008 You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.

By Haley January Eckels