Qualcomm's MediaFLO subsidiary scored another big carrier win. In late 2007 AT&T (formerly Cingular) will begin delivering broadcast TV content to its subscribers via MediaFLO's network. AT&T joins Verizon Wireless, which was the first U.S. operator to ink a deal with MediaFLO. Verizon's VCAST Mobile TV is expected to launch sometime this quarter.
Similar to Verizon, AT&T will have a dedicated user interface. In addition, it will use some new MediaFLO services such as a multicast video clip distribution service; a datacasting application for real-time information and entertainment; and audio services.
The deal is a big win for MediaFLO and makes the fate of DVB-H players--Modeo and Hiwire--increasingly questionable. Neither DVB-H firm has secured an operator partner at this time. Sprint is testing several different technologies including MediaFLO, and T-Mobile is testing Hiwire's services, however neither carrier has committed to a broadcast mobile TV system.
For more on AT&T's FLO:
- see this press release