MobiTV Expands Reach to Windows Mobile Devices

By Keith Regan TechNewsWorld 06/30/06 1:25 PM PT

Costs will likely need to come down before video on mobile handheld devices can go mainstream, Kagan said, predicting that would happen in short order as competitors vie for market share in the device space. Also needed are more fast wireless networks, with high-speed broadband wireless still being rolled out in the U.S.

In a move that could further accelerate the adoption of mobile video, MobiTV said Thursday it would make available a version of its software designed for smartphones and handheld devices running Windows Mobile 5.0.

Windows Mobile devices join the list of gadgets that can be loaded with MobiTV software, which is being offered at US$9.99 per month, a cost that comes on top of monthly data and voice charges. The service lets cell phone users view video, including downloaded clips and live television feeds, in full-screen format. It can also be used to access other content, including digital radio.

Windows Mobile is "particularly well-suited for multimedia," said Ben Feinman, director of product management for Emeryville, Calif.-based MobiTV. "The experience is amazing," he added. "We think everyone needs to see it to believe it." Read more...