Nokia, Motorola join hands to achieve DVB-H interoperability

World's top two cell phone makers Nokia and Motorola Inc. have joined hands together to achieve interoperability among their DVB-H (Digital Video Broadcast - Handheld) enabled mobile devices and network services.

Both telecommunication industries will work together to support systems based on open DVB-IPDC (IP datacast) standards available for operator partners interested in deploying multi-vendor mobile TV services and trials in 2006 and onward.

The main objective behind the deal is to let the companies' customers watch television programmes broadcast through each other's networks.

DVB-H is a technical specification for bringing broadcast services to handheld receivers. This technology offers a superior end-user experience in the mobile environment with excellent picture and reduced battery consumption. At the same time, nearly 50 TV channels can be delivered with low cost, over one network. DVB-H competes with two other mobile TV format rivals called DMB and MediaFlo.

Emphasizing on the role of interoperability in the field of broadcast mobile TV, Rob Bero, Director of Broadcast Technologies, Motorola said in a statement, "Operators around the world are evaluating broadcast mobile TV as a compelling new service to offer their subscribers - and interoperability will play a key role in bringing these services to market faster."

And, on their association with Nokia, he further added that "As a vocal leader in open standards, including DVB-H, we're pleased to be working with Nokia to deliver interoperable handset and network solutions that will help enable operators to offer the ultimate mobile TV experience for consumers."

Nokia and Motorola, the world's top two phone makers intend to use DVB-H technology in their devices and expect such devices to be sold worldwide by 2010.

Currently, both the companies together sell more than 55% of all the mobile phones in the world and they are also large manufacturers of the networks for mobile communications such as wireless, broadband and automotive communications technologies.

“We need interoperable mobile devices and systems which deliver the best experience for consumers and enable enjoyable, live broadcast TV when and where it suits them,” Harri Mannisto, Director, Multimedia Experiences, Nokia said.

DVB-H is an approved standard for mobile television, but the way content is protected against piracy can differ between DVB-H networks.

Mobile operators expect that more income from the deployment of mobile TV services, which may generate another 5 to 10 euros of revenues a month, will compensate for sinking revenues from voice telephony due to fierce competition and new regulation.

These mobile TV services will provide new business opportunities for companies across the value chain, including content and broadcast firms, mobile service providers, infrastructure and handset makers and technology providers, and the availability of interoperable DVB-H enabled devices and services is a major factor in further opening up the market.