Mobile TV Trial in Qatar

Qatar's Qtel has launched a mobile TV pilot trial, based on the DVB-H network. One of these channels is the new Al Jazeera English that was launched recently. Qtel, who built the brand new broadcasting network, ensured that the service would be ready in time for the 15th Asian Games.

Qtel CEO, Dr Nasser Marafih commented, "This is a fantastic leap-forward in 'on-the-go' entertainment and a glimpse of the future for what can be achieved on mobile phones. Qtel is really excited to be able to make this service available to Qatar as a next leap into the digital era of mobile TV. With DAGOC's support, we are keen to give the people of Qatar and visitors to the Games the chance to see for themselves the exceptionally high quality of images that can be received on a high-tech; DVB-H enabled Samsung handset. People will be able to watch live athletics events on Al Jazeera Sports channel from Khalifa stadium whilst watching bicycle racing on the Corniche!"

Qtel announced that a new broadcasting network, specially built for this service, was already operational for the Games and would continue to be tested afterwards. Anyone with a suitable DVB-H handset can enjoy the service free of charge until full commercial launch, which is planned for 2007.

Qtel will provide up to 13 TV channels for the pilot during and after the Asian Games 2006 including sport, entertainment and TV news channels from reputable domestic and international broadcasters such as Al Jazeera, CNN, CNBC and others. The service will be accessible in the greater Doha area (capital city of Qatar).

Qtel pointed out that although there were no commercially available handsets in the country at present - other than the pilot sets - it hoped that handset suppliers would recognize demand for DVB-H and that compatible handsets would be available in time for full commercial launch in 2007. For the pilot, Qtel and DAGOC have ordered 1,380 special Samsung handsets.

Qtel said that it had not yet completed pricing plans for the full commercial launch or confirm final details on which channels would be initially offered to customers, although a wide selection of channels will be available."

Posted to the site on 20th November 2006