20 US cities to get transmissions in 2011, including local content.
The US Mobile Content Venture (MCV) group of broadcasters has announced plans for its rollout of a mobile TV service in 20 US markets next year.
The venture, which was announced earlier this year, includes 12 broadcasters, including Fox, ION Television, NBC and the Pearl Mobile group.
It claims that the 20 initial markets account for more than 40% of the US population, with plans to offer at least two ad-supported free channels in each market, with more to come over time.
"Our commitment to launch in 20 markets, including 13 of the top 15 DMAs, is a significant and necessary step in building a viable commercial mobile TV business that delivers a comprehensive product to viewers," says co-GM Erik Moreno.
"We welcome the opportunity to work with Fox and NBC affiliates, as well as additional broadcasters, in rolling out many more markets."
Article continues belowAdvertisement
MCV says it's working with various handset and device makers to ensure there are devices capable of receiving the broadcasts in the second half of 2011.
The 20 markets getting the service next year are: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Dallas, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Houston, Detroit, Tampa, Phoenix, Minneapolis, Orlando, Portland, Cincinnati, Greenville, West Palm Beach, Birmingham, and Knoxville.
