Malaysian Operator Tests Qualcomm's MediaFLO Platform

Malaysia's Maxis Communications is to start trials of Qualcomm MediaFLO technology, in association with content provider ASTRO All Asia Networks. The MediaFLO trial is expected to begin this autumn and will feature 25 live content channels provided by ASTRO delivered in an 8 MHz UHF channel. The trial also will include Clipcasting media -- short-format video content that can be stored on the mobile device and viewed at a later time.

Maxis and ASTRO will have the opportunity to closely evaluate the performance capabilities of the MediaFLO System -- an open, mobile broadcasting technology standard -- in the lead up to a potential commercial deployment of mobile broadcasting services on the Maxis cellular network in 2008.

"Maxis is an innovative leader at the forefront of delivering new products and services to our customers," said Jon Eddy Abdullah, chief operating officer, Maxis Communications. "Already, we offer more than 20 TV channels on 3G, and we see great mass market potential for a high-quality mobile TV broadcast technology such as MediaFLO. As such, we are committed to offering mobile TV to the Malaysian market. Through this trial, we will assess the business and technical performance of MediaFLO and the promise of a compelling user experience with easy access and fast channel switching."

The trial, which takes place in Kuala Lumpur, will be conducted using transmitters supplied by Rohde & Schwarz and will feature a smaller number of transmitters than is normally expected for urban areas.

Posted to the site on 30th August 2007