Philips launches TV-on mobile solution for the U.S. market

Philips announced its first TV-on-mobile solution for the U.S. market, just three months after launching its European solution. Through its early technology development and involvement in global trials, Philips is leading this new trend in mobile multimedia entertainment, which is reported to grow to at least 10 million wireless customers in the U.S. by 2010 (ABI Research). TV-on-mobile technology will provide consumers with live access to news, sports highlights, music videos, interactive programming and more on mobile phones, personal media players (PMP) and other small portable TV devices.

Philips new Digital Video Broadcast - Handheld (DVB-H) front-end solution, BGT211, delivers low-power consumption, enabling manufacturers to offer consumers the ability to watch TV for hours before needing to recharge. The size makes it easy to integrate the module into mobile phones, enabling extensive product differentiation for smaller, more elegant phone designs with greater consumer appeal. Philips unique offering is a complete solution which addresses both the tuner and channel demodulation functions.

The BGT211 solution for TV-on-mobile contains all of the functionality of a complete digital TV front-end receiver and does not require any external components. In addition, Philips customer development kit ensures smooth, easy development and reduces time-to-market for TV-enabled cellular handsets. The BGT211 includes programmable options that support evolving standards and the introduction of upgrades, even after systems have been deployed in the field. Philips can also offer customers expertise in integrating an antennae solution which can simplify the development process.

Philips also recognizes that industry collaboration will be critical to TV-on-mobile adoption in the U.S. and is working with leaders in this market, including Crown Castle Mobile Media, to bring this technology to consumers in 2006.

"We believe Crown Castle Mobile Media's ownership of unencumbered nationwide spectrum will make our planned deployment of a high quality, reliable DVB-H network possible in the United States. We also have unique expertise across wireless network, broadcast and content platform operation that is necessary to bring this innovative rich media service to market," commented Michael Schueppert, president, Crown Castle Mobile Media. "What does this mean for U.S. mobile subscribers? Working with companies like Philips, Crown Castle Mobile Media anticipates delivering a superior and affordable live video and audio programming experience comparable to what's available with digital television and satellite radio -- anytime, anywhere -- to consumers' handsets, laptops and portable media players in major U.S. markets."

The BGT211 complete solutions are currently sampling to top cellular phone and small portable TV devices manufacturers worldwide.