MobileMonday Global

^{Two handsets available} AT&T plans mobile TV launch in May

AT&T plans to launch broadcast mobile TV services in May over Qualcomm’s MediaFLO network.

The initial line-up includes the same package of channels that Verizon Wireless features on its V Cast Mobile TV service, but AT&T also promised to unveil two exclusive channels.

AT&T will show off its new service at the CTIA fair next week. The service will be supported by two handsets, the LG Vu and the Samsung Access.

MediaFLO uses 700 MHz spectrum to multicast high-power digital TV signals to handheld devices. While MediaFLO has a regular line-up of channels, which all of its customers will receive, Qualcomm owns enough spectrum to allow operators to strike their own deals with content providers and reserve specific channels on the network.

AT&T will be 16 months behind Verizon Wireless in bringing its mobile TV service to market. Mobile TV’s take-up in the U.S. has been slow, and Qualcomm hasn’t been able to launch service in all of its markets due broadcasters still occupying the spectrum.

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