ITV

Category: News Broadcasting

  • Samsung India launches slim mobile phones

    Samsung India launches slim mobile phones

    MUMBAI: Samsung India has unveiled a new line of the World’s slimmest mobile phones with the launch of The Ultra Edition Series in India. The company claims this Ultra Edition transcends the current market offering by presenting consumers with unparalleled breakthroughs in technology while retaining simplicity of use.

    The first model to be launched within the series is ‘The Ultra Edition 6.9’. Made with fiberglass re-infused plastic, the phone is a marvel in just 6.9mm thickness, packing along with it a 2 megapixel camera, MP3 Player, Direct TV Out function, 80 MB memory apart from a host of other features.

    Ultra Edition 12.9 (D900) – The slimmest slider phone and the Ultra Edition 9.9 (D830) – The slimmest clamshell phone will be launched in the subsequent month.

    Samsung says that the Ultra Edition series illustrates its sensitivity to consumer needs by delivering mobile phones with deceptively discreet but stylish exteriors while embedding world leading technology features inside. This path breaking slimness coupled with rich multimedia capabilities in The Ultra Edition phones is a result of Smart Surface Mounting Technology (SSMT) pioneered by Samsung worldwide.

    The Ultra Edition phones have been constructed using Titanium, Magnesium and Fibreglass re-infused plastic to impart the solid strength to these Ultra Thin breakthroughs, basis which these are made to pass strict proprietary tests to certify each product’s durability.

    Samsung India senior VP Ihn-Chul Chung said, “Samsung’s foray into Ultra Slim phones is part of the company’s aggressive global strategy to take on the leadership position in the mobile phone market. Understanding that each consumer has different needs Samsung has facilitated convergence in mobile communication with a rapid pace of technological advancement and aesthetic design”

    Samsung india MD HCRyu said, “India is a very critical market for Samsung and the launch of The Ultra Slim Series in India is a testimony to our commitment to meet the growing aspirations of consumers for sleek phones that accentuate their personality without compromising on premium multimedia capabilities”

    Samsung says that the Ultra Edition 6.9 (X820) is its commitment to create the slimmest and lightest product in the market today. Weighing a mere 66 grams and measuring a slim 6.9mm depth, the lightweight Ultra Edition 6.9 is today’s definitive tool to help users stay connected, take pictures with the 2 megapixel camera, or enjoy their favourite tunes with the music player. The Ultra Edition 6.9 balances slim elegance with a functional keypad and tops off its supreme design with a beautifully beveled cut surface for a natural grip.

    Fiberglass-infused plastic is also used to increase durability to protect the features that are compressed into the 6.9mm frame using the Smart Surface Mounting Technology (SSMT).

    Samsung claims that the Ultra Edition 9.9 (D830) raises the bar in slimness and design of clamshell handsets. The company says that the 9.9 mm ultra slim clamshell is the result of Samsung’s constant efforts to go above and beyond the boundaries of form and function. This lightweight mobile comes outfitted with a 2 megapixel camera to capture those special moments wherever the customer goes.

    The Ultra Edition 12.9 offers the latest in multimedia technology with premium slide-up design for business professionals. The 12.9mm slide-up is the thinnest slider ever designed to come equipped with a powerful 3.13 megapixel camera — leading the 3 megapixel camera phone trend in the global market this year. Unique and dynamic user interfaces enhance user’s mobile experience.

    The main screen will reflect networks and call status by displaying animated graphics to alert users of missed calls or unread messages, and imported documents can be viewed on the vivid 262K color screen. Users can also enhance the multimedia experience with the Bluetooth stereo headset. Whatever your desires may be, the Ultra Edition 12.9 will “slide up” next to the customer for his/her’s next command.

  • Carter appointed as president of FremantleMedia Creative Networks

    Carter appointed as president of FremantleMedia Creative Networks

    MUMBAI: FremantleMedia has appointed Gary Carter to the newly created position of president, FremantleMedia Creative Networks. It is a new division combining the currently separate departments of Worldwide Drama and Worldwide Entertainment.

    He joins the FremantleMedia operating board with immediate effect and will report to FremantleMedia CEO Tony Cohen.

    In his new role, Carter will build on FremantleMedia’s creative success in drama and entertainment programming. He will also be responsible for driving the company’s increasing emphasis on in-house programme development, working with its global network of more than 20 production companies, as well as coordinating with FremantleMedia Enterprises, which comprises its ancillary exploitation businesses, Fremantle International Distribution and FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide.

    Carter will also continue in his role as chief creative officer, FMX (formerly known as New Platforms), part of FremantleMedia Creative Networks, working with producers to create new brands and concepts specifically for mobile, broadband, game consoles and IPTV (Internet Protocol Television).

    Carter joined Worldwide Entertainment in January 2005, having been a consultant for the company since August 2003. He worked closely with the division to set the overall strategic and creative direction and the operational agenda. He also provided central support to the development, acquisition and exploitation of entertainment formats which have international potential, and drove entertainment development activities across the company globally.

    Prior to setting up his own consulting business, he was executive director, programme affairs, at Endemol Entertainment International for five years and was responsible for the roll out of its key programme brands. Before joining Endemol, he was international business manager for Planet 24 Productions and a literary agent for Roger Hancock for almost 10 years.

    Alan Boyd, currently president of Worldwide Entertainment, will be changing his role in the company. He will take on a new role as a special advisor to Tony Cohen, where he will have particular responsibility for consulting on the Idols and The X Factor franchises, as well as consulting on creative and company issues and producer training. He will also act as a special advisor to RTL Group CEO Gerhard Zeiler, consulting on programming matters and entertainment output across the RTL Group of channels as well as creative training for group executives.

    Mike Murphy, currently President of Worldwide Drama, will also change his role. He will remain a key part of the Worldwide Drama team working on FremantleMedia serial dramas around the world, as well as focussing on building FremantleMedia’s scripted business in the US, a priority growth area for the company. He is currently executive producer on Bianca, a 20-part primetime telenovela that FremantleMedia first made in Germany and that FremantleMedia North America is now producing for US network Lifetime Television. Murphy will oversee production of the US version of Bianca in Australia.

    Cohen said, “Gary is a very talented executive and will play a crucial role in future working with our producers to build on our tremendous success in scripted and unscripted programming around the world and to drive forward our in-house programme development. Mike has made a fantastic contribution to growing our international drama business over the past few years and I am delighted that he will now focus on the vital task of building on our scripted business in the US. I am also delighted that Alan has agreed to become a special advisor to FremantleMedia and RTL Group. He has done a tremendous job of overseeing the roll-out of the Idols brand and his years of production and commissioning experience will continue to prove a great asset to the company.”

    Carter added, “I’m thrilled to have been given the opportunity to drive FremantleMedia’s creative output into the global market with our exceptional team of producers and executives in both drama and entertainment. I look forward to building on the fantastic legacy that Mike and Alan have achieved and I’m excited about the challenge of creating new hits for television as well as for new platforms and working with FremantleMedia Enterprises to ensure the company develops programmes with significant off-air, interactive and international distribution potential.”

  • Sky launches a free broadband service for customers

    Sky launches a free broadband service for customers

    MUMBAI: UK pay TV service provider BSkyB has launched free broadband for Sky customers. The company says that the launch sets new standards in quality, ease and savings.

    Unveiling its new broadband internet access service, Sky Broadband, at an event for analysts and investors the Company disclosed some information:

    Operating and Financial outlook
    • Pay-TV business on track to achieve 2010 targets
    • Clear strategy to build a scale broadband customer base, targeting revenues from high growth opportunities in online advertising, search and content and increasing penetration of additional products
    • Anticipated investment of £400 million of EBIT to be invested over the next three years
    • Broadband expected to be earnings enhancing in the year to 30 June 2010 independent of any Pay-TV benefits
    • Capital expenditure of approximately £250 million in first two years
    • Targetting broadband ROCE of 15 per cent for the year ended 2011 including initial cost of Easynet acquisition
    • Progressive dividend policy to be maintained across investment phase.

    BSkyB CEO James Murdoch said, “Sky Broadband is a compelling product which rewards our 8 million customers with a quality service offering flexibility and great value. Sky is ideally equipped to enter the large and growing markets of broadband and telephony and by pushing the boundaries of the home entertainment market, we will help our customers realise the full potential from technological convergence.

    “The business case is clear; we believe our investment will enhance top-line growth, be earnings enhancing from 2010 and with the benefits of scale, deliver increasingly attractive returns thereafter whilst offering substantial savings and compelling value to customers. This is a transformational new initiative for Sky.”

  • William Holt to oversee MTV US’ digital initiatives

    William Holt to oversee MTV US’ digital initiatives

    MUMBAI: US broadcaster MTV has announced that Courtney William Holt is the group’s executive VP of digital music and media.

    A recognised expert in the convergence of new media, music and marketing, Holt will oversee digital initiatives for MTV’s Music and Logo Group, including the MTV: Music Television, VH1 and CMT music brands; Logo, the network for the LGBT audience; and Urge, the digital music service recently launched to strong industry support.

    Holt will partner with the teams who direct the day-to-day operations of each brand’s online and wireless properties such as MTV’s Overdrive, VH1’s VSpot, mtvU’s Uber and CMT’s soon-to-launch Loaded.

    Holt joins MTV Networks from Interscope Geffen A&M, where he was executive vice president of new media, creative and strategic marketing. At Interscope Geffen A&M, Holt embraced emerging technology to break new marketing ground, galvanizing communities of fans around top musical artists.

    At MTV, Holt will be responsible for continuing to expand the reach of MTV Networks’ premier music brands, engaging audiences across a spectrum of touchpoints – on air, online, on the handset and through its new digital music service.

    MTV US president Van Toffler says, “It’s only fitting to have a creative music executive like Courtney – who started his career producing videos that appeared on our channels – join our stable of talent. Courtney’s background and experience is a perfect fit for our brands, which deliver innovative short- and long-form music entertainment that connects with our audience on many screens.

  • Phillips reports sales growth of 10 per cent in 2Q

    Phillips reports sales growth of 10 per cent in 2Q

    MUMBAI: Royal Philips Electronics has reported that sales in the second quarter were up 10 per cent year-on-year. Its net income was 301 million euros.

    Sales increased strongly in the second quarter to 7,601 million euros. This represents a 10 per cent rise from the same quarter last eyar.

    Adjusted for the effects of currency movements and consolidation changes, comparable sales increased by 11 per cent driven by strong growth in all operating divisions.

    EBIT amounted to 367 million euros compared to 158 million euros in the same period of last year. In difficult market conditions, the EBIT of the consumer electronics division held up. Brand campaign costs were 47 million euros lower than in the same quarter for last year due to an amended seasonal spend pattern.

    Financial income and expenses resulted in income of 127 million euros compared to an expense of 57 million euros in thew same quarter last year. The improvement is due to the recognition of a TSMC cash dividend of EUR 223 million, net of tax.

    Cash inflow from operating activities increased to 300 million euros, compared to 52 million euros in the same quarter last year due to lower additional working capital requirements. Inventories as a percentage of sales amounted to 12.2 per cent, a decrease of 1.2 percentage points compared to Q2 2005.

    Philips’ president and CEO Gerard Kleisterlee says, “We had an excellent second quarter to round off a good first half year. Our transformation into a market-driven healthcare, lifestyle and technology company starts to show its merits, with strong profit contributions from Medical Systems, Lighting and DAP. Our consumer electronics business model is showing its robustness in difficult conditions for the industry and Semiconductors is delivering the expected benefits of its business renewal programme.

    “Continuing our consistent focus on shareholder value, we are pleased to announce the launch of a further 1.5 billion euros share repurchase programme, to start in the third quarter.”

  • Speculation runs high on Echostar DirecTV merger

    Speculation runs high on Echostar DirecTV merger

    MUMBAI: Last few days, the American media industry has been full of speculation over a potential move that could change the dynamics of that country’s pay TV industry.

    The news is that DirecTV in which News Corp has a stake is looking at buying rival Echostar. However, the two companies have refused to comment on reports that have appeared in several publications.

    The two parties account for almost all viewership of satellite television in the US. Rumour mongering escalated at the recently held Allen & Co. media and technology conference in Idaho. Charlie Ergen who owns Echostar had attended the conference and The New York Times had reported on the rumours.

    In a recent piece in Reuters Wall Street, analysts were of the view that the presidential election in a few years time could spur a wave of mergers including DirectTV-EchoStar due to concerns that should the Democrats come into power, it would be more difficult to merge.

    One roadblock here is that America’s media watchdog, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), had four years ago rejected a proposal for a merger saying that it contravened antithrust laws.

    Interestingly a few months ago, DirecTV CFO Mike Palkovic, had told an industry conference that his company was interested in buying Echostar. Reports also state that Ergen is reluctant to give up control of his company.

    A merger would result in cost savings that run into billions of dollars and they would be able to compete better with the cable TV industry. A report in tvpredictions.com states that both the firms are investing heavily in new satellites (and other infrastructure) to improve their HDTV offerings.

  • Walt Disney Studios to increase branded output strategy

    Walt Disney Studios to increase branded output strategy

    MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Studios will be making a strategic shift toward more Disney branded movies. The studio will produce and distribute approximately 10 Disney live-action and animated films a year and 2-3 Touchstone films a year. The announcement was made by The Walt Disney Studios chairman Dick Cook.

    Cook said, “Disney is the number one name in filmed entertainment around the world. It’s the name on the door, it’s what we do best, and when we do it right, not only do moviegoers of all ages benefit from the finest in quality entertainment, but it lifts the entire company as well. The depth and breath of great Disney movies range from Pirates of the Caribbean to Cars to The Chronicles of Narnia, and we look to expand our global reach even more.”

    To accomplish this objective, Cook has tapped Oren Aviv as president of production, Walt Disney Pictures. Aviv will oversee the live-action development and film production for the Studios.

    “Oren is an amazing talent and has been a key player in reshaping our Disney films with many successes. In fact, National Treasure was a winning, original idea which he conceived and realised on film. In his new role, we look forward to capitalising on his great taste as well as his creative vision,” continued Cook.

    “Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group president Nina Jacobson, will be leaving the company, and while she will certainly be missed, we greatly appreciate her many contributions,” said Cook.

    In another strategic move, The Walt Disney Studios has restructured several of its business units under two global organisations – Buena Vista Worldwide Marketing and Distribution, and Buena Vista Worldwide Home Entertainment. Mark Zoradi has been appointed president of Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group and will oversee the distribution and marketing of all Disney and Touchstone Pictures films worldwide. Robert Chapek has been named president, Buena Vista Worldwide Home Entertainment, and will oversee the worldwide distribution and marketing of all the Studio’s films on Home Entertainment platforms.

    “The consolidation of global marketing and distribution is extremely important as we continue to adapt to the vastly changing world. To lead this charge we have the best team in place with Mark and Bob. Mark is a consummate professional who along with his team has had unprecedented success in the international marketplace with 12 consecutive years surpassing the $1 billion dollar mark. No other distributor has crossed this performance threshold. Bob is an innovator in every sense of the word and has helped our studio achieve countless DVD successes, and that leadership will translate well into his new global responsibilities,” said Cook.

    Another executive appointment will include Jim Gallagher as president of marketing for Buena Vista Pictures Marketing.

    Cook added, “Jim is as smart as they come and has great taste and creative instincts, not to mention an incredible sense of humor. I’m thrilled he has taken on this very important role.”

    With this new global infrastructure in place the Studio is expected to reduce its work force by approximately 650 positions worldwide. “Cutbacks such as these are difficult on so many levels, and we will do everything in our power to make the transition as smooth as possible,” said Cook.

    Walt Disney Feature Animation, Pixar Studios, Miramax Films (led by Daniel Battsek), Buena Vista Music Group and Buena Vista Theatrical Productions will not be affected by this reorganisation.

  • British Olympic promo to become Hollywood film

    British Olympic promo to become Hollywood film

    MUMBAI: Inspiration, the three-minute promotional film created for London’s 2012 bid, will be transformed into a full length feature film. Moongate Films’ producer and founder Caroline Rowland and director Daryl Goodrich have signed an agreement in this regard with Paramount/Nickelodeon. 

    The producers have zeroed in on the working title Legend of the Rings for the film.

    Relating the story of four young Olympic hopefuls from across the world, the short film formed part of London’s successful presentation to the International Olympic Committee in Singapore last July. It highlighted London 2012’s commitment to inspire youth to take up sport through the Games.This full-length feature is intended for release to coincide with the Beijing Games in 2008, said an official release.

    London 2012 organising committee Chair Sebastian Coe says: “We are extremely proud of the Singapore film as it brought to life so perfectly the vision we created for the London Olympic Games to inspire the youth of the world.”

    “We are delighted that vision has captured the imagination of Hollywood.” Rowland adds. “It’s a universal story of triumph, tragedy and heroism that will appeal to children and families all over the world and, hopefully, inspire many who see it to follow their dreams.”

    This will be the U.K.-based production company’s first feature. Their sister-company, New Moon, specializes in commercials, promotional films and documentaries, adds the release.

  • NGC launches a global music broadband channel

    NGC launches a global music broadband channel

    MUMBAI: National Geographic in the US has created a music initiative that offers consumers the soundtrack to the world, from traditional roots music to unexpected hybrids from the furthest reaches of the globe.

    National Geographic World Music (worldmusic.nationalgeographic.com) showcases international artists and musical performances in an interactive and immersive online environment.

    In supporting National Geographic’s (NGC) core aim of inspiring people to care about the planet, the site uses the language of music as a medium to tell the stories of the world.

    From Morocco to Indonesia, New Zealand to Sweden, Cuba to the US and Senegal, National Geographic World Music offers fans the chance to discover music by different artists, regions and genres. The site also provides rich context for music through NGC’s assets that include videos, maps, photos and features from its magazines, and other editorial platforms. Searches are enabled via artist, genre, country and region.

    Featured artists include:

    – Tinariwen: These Malian guitar-slingers are former Tuareg rebels who put down their guns, picked up guitars and changed the face of African rock ’n’ roll.

    – Sidestepper: This Anglo-Colombian collaboration is a mash-up of 21st-century salsa, cumbia, vallenato and drum ’n’ bass, direct from the developing world.

    – Seu Jorge: This Brazilian crooner made waves when he gave David Bowie classics a smooth, samba makeover.

    Musician David Beal has been working on the launch of National Geographic World Music for the past year. He says, “People come to National Geographic to read books and magazines, to watch films and television, to shop and to explore nationalgeographic.com, but they’ve never truly had a pure listening experience, until now.

    “By exposing these incredible artists to the National Geographic audience, they’ll hopefully begin to find a larger audience and receive the recognition they deserve.”

    National Geographic World Music is programmed by music experts under the supervision of Tom Pryor, former editor of Global Rhythm magazine. The Web site will feature the best artists, innovative music and emerging trends worldwide, allowing users a comprehensive experience. It will also feature guest DJs and their recommended play lists. With partner Calabash, National Geographic World Music makes thousands of tracks available for discovery as well as for purchase at 99 cents per MP3 download. Other strategic partners include LinkTV for video, and Afropop Worldwide and Global Rhythm for editorial and curatorial content.

    National Geographic digital media VP, content development and operations Betsy Scolnik says, “World music is a natural extension of nationalgeographic.com’s rich multimedia experience that entertains, informs and engages consumers who are as passionate about the world’s cultures and the environment as we are. World music fans around the world will be able to listen and learn in one digital experience.”

  • Orange, Alcatel testing new mobile broadcasting concept

    Orange, Alcatel testing new mobile broadcasting concept

    MUMBAI: French space agency Cnes, telecom firm Orange France, and communications solutions provider Alcatel have announced the selection of Toulouse and the Midi-Pyrenees Region in France for the first trial of a system that is central to Alcatel’s “Unlimited Mobile TV” solution.

    This trail was outside the laboratories of the main technical characteristics of the new mobile broadcasting solution over a hybrid satellite and terrestrial transmission system using S-band. It is preliminary to the research and development efforts for the terrestrial aspects of the project, made possible with support from the French Industrial Innovation Agency.

    The Cnes financed and oversaw the design and deployment of the demonstrator, set the trial schedule, and is leading the trial; Orange, the leader in mobile broadcasting, is providing terrestrial repeater sites and contributing its expertise for analyzing results; Alcatel is conducting all trial measurements and preparing the result analysis; in addition, Eutelsat and SES Astra are supplying the satellite resources needed for feeding terrestrial repeaters.

    The trial was initially scheduled to continue through September 2006. Based on initial results, it has been decided to extend the technical trial through the end of 2006. As part of this extended trial period, Eutelsat will partner with Cnes, Orange France, and Alcatel in order to pursue the validation of the technical choices of the hybrid satellite and terrestrial broadcasting system to provide S-band services.

    Mobile Television Forum president Janine Langlois-Glandier says, “The Mobile Television Forum recently declared its support for the adoption of standards which are widely approved in Europe and which guarantee interoperability, such as the DVB-H standard and its evolution in the S-band. We are pleased that a trial using the S-band solution will be conducted in Toulouse by Cnes with Orange France and Alcatel, because we believe that this solution will assure consistency that will be beneficial for France and Europe as a whole.”

    The trial is part of permanent ongoing projects being conducted by Cnes on space applications for the consumer market, and part of continuing preparatory work being conducted jointly by Cnes and Alcatel on architectural concepts and the feasibility of a variety of technical alternatives for a hybrid satellite and terrestrial system for mobile broadcasting.

    The purpose of this trial is to provide a technical assessment, to supplement ongoing laboratory work, of certain key parameters of hybrid satellite and terrestrial S-band broadcasting, such as the impact of wave form on transmission quality, link budget, antenna diversity, error-correcting codes, and frequency sharing for satellite and terrestrial elements of the solution.

    The demonstrator includes all elements of the proposed solution. The satellite is simulated using an S-band transmitter on board a helicopter at high altitude. The system is completed by terrestrial repeaters installed in ten or so locations belonging to Orange France, the mobile telecommunications operator, alongside its GSM and UMTS service transmitters. Lastly, a test terminal and instruments on board a vehicle are used to measure and record the signal in real time.

    The demonstrator covers southeastern Toulouse and the suburbs, from downtown to Castanet Tolosan and St Orens, including the Canal Technology Park and Rangueil. The tests will also be conducted outside of Toulouse and its suburbs, in order to evaluate reception conditions in population centers of variable size, simulating complete coverage within mainland France.