MUMBAI: In a move that signals the potential of the mobile television category, Jarl Mohn aka Lee Masters has joined the board of directors of Idetic, the company that created MobiTV, the world’s leading television network for mobile phones.
In addition, Mohn has made a financial investment in the company and will become a senior advisor to the MobiTV management team, lending his expertise across content, distribution and technology to help shape the company’s future, states an official release.
“Having created and led some of the media business’ most recognized brands and companies from inception to launch, Jarl is a true visionary in the entertainment space, and we are honored to have him as a thought partner and investor,” said Idetic chairman & CEO Phillip Alvelda. “We look forward to tapping his insights and experience to expand our content offerings and deliver the best mobile television experience.”
“MobiTV is a significant investment opportunity, as they have earned a leadership position in a category that is experiencing a faster distribution trajectory than that of radio and even cable television did at inception,” said Mohn. “I am enthusiastic about contributing to the company beyond traditional board involvement, and working with the team to realize the business’ potential.”
Jarl Mohn was founding president of Liberty Digital, a publicly traded subsidiary of Liberty Media Group involved in interactive television, cable television networks, and Internet enterprises. He served as its Chief Executive Officer from June 1999 to March 2002. Prior to founding Liberty Digital, he was president and CEO of E! Entertainment Television where he also founded E! Online through a joint venture with CNET. From 1986 to 1989, Mohn was executive vice president and general manager of MTV and VH1. He began his professional life with a 20-year career in radio, the official statement added.
MobiTV recently increased its channel line-up with popular programming including Major League Baseball, Fox News and The Weather Channel. Also, MobiTV has expanded internationally with carriers in the United Kingdom, Canada and Latin America. Leveraging the new 3G wireless data networks, MobiTV delivers a high quality television experience offering a wide range of content and an intuitive graphical user interface.
