ITV

Tag: New Zealand

  • India to hit top IPTV slot in Asia Pacific by 2015: Kagan Research

    India to hit top IPTV slot in Asia Pacific by 2015: Kagan Research

    SINGAPORE: So what if IPTV is still taking baby steps in India? Come 2015 and India is going to be the third most happening market for IPTV in the Asia Pacific region in terms of the number of households that will have the service, just behind China and Japan, according to projections by Kagan Research.

    What’s more, the total pay-TV revenues forecast are expected to grow from $13.1 billion in 2004 in the Asia Pacific region to an estimated $38.0 billion in 2015. On the other hand, IPTV revenue share will rise from 0.7 per cent in 2004 to 12.9 per cent in 2015. With this, telcos will capture a significant portion of Asia Pacific total pay-TV revenues.

    At present, IPTV has been launched or is in the trial stages in the following countries in the Asia Pacific region: China (trial), Hong Kong, India (trial), Indonesia, Japan, Korea (trial), Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore (trial), Taiwan and Thailand (trial). In the countries, where IPTV is on a trial basis, operators are either running a trial in selected markets or lobbying respective regulators to lift their grip on pay TV licensing. 

    Some of the key considerations when planning a ‘Pay TV Service’ are: ‘Pay’ factor – who, how much, subsidies; ‘TV’ factor- programs, user experience, positioning, potential revenue stream; ‘Service’ factor- look and feel of service and customer service. 

    In terms of the content strategy, some of the trends in IPTV that can be followed in Asia are: 

    • Start with satellite turnaround signals which already have an Asian footprint as these require little inhouse programming expertise.

    • Invest in brand-name channels to build critical mass and position as a ‘complementary’ and not ‘substitute’ service to traditional PayTV.

    • In-house content department and capabilities give operators the edge, e.g. self-programmed channels, marketing, licensing and legal expertise.

    • Local content/ self-programming are essential for competing with traditional Pay TV operators.

    • PVR/ TiVo has started in Taiwan and Australia on traditional Pay TV platform.

  • Digital TV in focus as television hooks into the high definition era

    Digital TV in focus as television hooks into the high definition era

    SINGAPORE: With more than 150 million Digital TV homes across the world, the debate has fast moved on from ‘whether internet will do to TV, what TV did to radio years back!

    The morning session on the changing face of television at Broadcast Asia 2006, brought home the fact that from the first launches of MPEG -2DVB broadcast platforms, the industry is seeing a new wave in TV delivery, which is being driven by intense competition amongst platform operators across the world.

    Speaking on the occasion, Tandberg Television Asia Pacific president Graham Cradock said, “Research indicates that by 2010, more than 50 per cent of TV viewing is going to be on -demand basis. Consumers are already reacting favourably and adopting the new technological changes. There are 10 million High-definition (HDTV) subscribers in the US and The desire to watch the recent World Cup Fever has added on to the HDTV households across the globe including countries like Korea and Japan.”

    Quoting from a study conducted by Ernst and Young in the US, Cradock added that in this digital decade, it takes very little time for people to adopt to newer technologies. So, it took almost 16 years for mobile to catch on, nine years for the internet, DVDs took six years to bust the video business; but for digital TV, it will probably take just very little time. He added, “Across the world more than ten per cent of the digital TV homes have shifted to on-demand basis. By 2010, we predict more than 50 the per cent of TV viewing is going to be on demand basis.”

    The key message here is that the consumer has fast changed in the last five years. The availability of increasingly sophisticated personal media services has created a new generation of digital savvy consumers. With devices such as digital camera and video phones, MP3 players, personal video players and gaming consoles the use of WiFi to connect to the internet, the consumer is becoming a more and more accustomed to living in a world where he or she can access content anywhere.

    So, what does this mean for the consumer and for broadcasters? Well, in the on-demand economy, obviously content remains king and consumer the real winner. Television will not offer more customized content supported by technology to go with the new multi media solutions like internet protocol television (IPTV) and high-definition technology. To add on it will be features like personal video recording, digital audio broadcasting (DAB) and conditional access control.

    Cradock stressed the fact that there was not much customised content for television, “Television content, will have to be repurposed to suit the delivery platforms. And there is a growing cohabitative relationship between television, the Internet and to some extent mobile too. The challenge in the future is to make them complimentary to each other,” he said.

    So, how are broadcasters gearing up to the challenges of Digital TV and the emergence of convergence?

    Said Cradock, “The changing face of television is giving sleepless nights to many broadcasters, as the order will question the fundamental parameters of TV viewing. From the commercial perspective, fragmented content will obviously reduce advertising revenue. Also, they have to make sure that consumers have the screens which support the newer technologies. The complex TV world will also bring about legislative issues in the wake of digital switchover, access rights, franchising fees, etc.”

    Graham listed out the survival strategy in the changing scenario:

    Don’t get anxious. Instead, get enthusiastic about the changes and adapt to them. Like, New Zealand is already talking about the digital switchover and opening up the bandwidth to cater to interactive television.

    In IPTV, see an opportunity for delivery for interactive TV

    Fragmentad and customized content will mean a drop in revenues but there is a positive side to it. Look at branded content, which will deliver more return on investment (RoI) for the advertisers.

    For advertisers, it will be a win-win situation; at least now they’ll get to know what works best for them.

    Remember, earlier it was content to the consumer, and now it is content for the consumer.

  • Argent Networks launches convergent billing and mediation for IPTV

    Argent Networks launches convergent billing and mediation for IPTV

    MUMBAI: New Zealand technology and telecommunications solutions company, Argent Networks announced that it was launching a new application for Internet Protocol TV (IPTV) billing and mediation as part of its leading ArgentEclipse Convergent Billing and CRM solution.

    Argent Networks provides solutions for the voice, data, video and mobile sectors of the global telecommunications market.

    This means that IPTV manufacturers and service providers who use ArgentEclipse get a host of added features such as provisioning, CRM/CTI, pre-paid and post-paid billing options, as well as automatic EPG (Electronic Programme Guide) updating for the complete range of IPTV services. 

    ArgentEclipse now also provides event-based billing for IPTV applications including video on demand, pay-per view, video broadcasting, gaming, content and IPTV telephony services, as per an official release.

    Argent Networks CEO Chris Jones says the ArgentEclipse suite of products is the ideal solution for new and existing broadband, cable and TV operators wishing to get into the burgeoning global IPTV market.

    “Worldwide demand for IPTV is expected to be huge as broadband is now available to more than 100 million households. Given that many of the biggest telecommunications providers are investing in IPTV for both their residential and business markets, our product is exactly what they need. With ArgentEclipse’s modular and fully convergent CRM and billing products, IPTV operators can now expand their offerings to subscribers, giving them one simple, easy bill for all telephony, data and now video offerings.”

    Jones also says that the ArgentEclipse IPTV solution provides IPTV manufacturers and service providers with a far more comprehensive suite of applications than has been available before.

    “This means that IPTV manufacturers and service providers who use ArgentEclipse get a host of added features such as provisioning, CRM/CTI, pre-paid and post-paid billing options, as well as automatic EPG (Electronic Programme Guide) updating for the complete range of IPTV services.”

    In addition, Jones says that IPTV subscribers will be provided with options for self- provisioning and subscription to new services, access to online EPG, PVR (personal video recorder) support, online payment and customer services options.

  • MTV and Nickelodeon to launch in New Zealand on Sky Television

    MTV and Nickelodeon to launch in New Zealand on Sky Television

    MUMBAI: MTV Networks Asia Pacific president Nigel Robbins has announced plans to launch a wholly-owned and operated localised MTV and the re-launch of Nickelodeon as a fully-customised channel for audiences in New Zealand.

    MTV New Zealand will launch as a 24-hour network, with localised and signature MTV programming beginning 19 August 2006.

    Nickelodeon, the widely distributed network for kids, will re-launch in New Zealand on 1 August as a fully-customised channel.

    Both channels will be carried by Sky Television and made available to more than 650,000 homes, representing 43 per cent of all television homes in New Zealand. The channels will benefit from local productions, locally-tailored programming, scheduling, on-air promos and feature New Zealand presenters.

    “Young people in New Zealand enjoy a lifestyle, sensibility and appetite for pop culture and entertainment that is totally unique, so it is particularly exciting to bring them dedicated MTV and Nickelodeon channels that reflect these nuances,” said Robbins.

    Key management appointments for the services will be announced soon, with MTV Networks Asia Pacific’s director of business development Chris Keely leading set-up efforts for the businesses.

  • Dave Sibley is MTV Australia MD

    Dave Sibley is MTV Australia MD

    MUMBAI: MTV Asia-Pacific president Nigel Robbins has announced that Dave Sibley is MTV Australia MD.

    Sibley will be responsible for leading the charge of MTV and VH1’s businesses in both the pay television and digital media worlds throughout Australia and New Zealand, as well as sit on the board for Nickelodeon Australia, a joint venture between MTV and XYZ Entertainment. Sibley takes up this post in July.

    Sibley has a decade of service with MTV International, having most recently served as senior VP and GM, international marketing partnerships in London. In this role, he pioneered the marketing partnerships model, a concept born of Sibley’s belief in the need for a more creative and innovative approach to client engagement with brand media. MTV is now acknowledged across the globe as a leader in this field.

    Robbins says, “Dave’s leadership history with MTV Networks makes him an ideal choice to take the charge and continue to develop our businesses in Australia and New Zealand, as well as capitalize upon the brands’ momentum and growth. With MTV’s profile at an all time high and VH1’s growing fan base, Dave’s appointment comes at not only an exciting time for our company but a high-growth period for the pay television industry as a whole.”

    Sibley says, “To take the reins of a business as robust as MTV Networks Australia during this time of growth is a real thrill, and I’m very excited about helping further the connection MTV and VH1 have with their audiences, advertisers and business partners. MTV now has truly established itself in Australia as the premier brand for youth, thanks to the commitment of a very talented team. I’m looking forward to capitalizing on this trajectory and taking our businesses to the next level of growth.”

    Sibley will report directly to Robbins and be based at the company’s Sydney headquarters.

  • ARY rolls out QTV and Musik on EchoStar’s Dish Network

    ARY rolls out QTV and Musik on EchoStar’s Dish Network

    MUMBAI: Pakistan’s ARY Digital Network has launched two more channels in the United States and North America .

    After the success of its flagship general entertainment channel, ARY Digital and its 24 hour news and current affairs channel ARY One World, the network now rolls out QTV – the 24 hour Islamic channel and a music channel Musik.

    Both these channels became available on the EchoStar’s Dish Network platform from 20 April.

    “One of our basic objectives is to help our music, entertainment, language, and basically our culture find a voice and reach the world over,” says ARY Digital Network president and CEO Salman Iqbal.

    “Our channels are trying to bridge the geographical divide that exists for that huge population of people that have migrated from their homelands.”

    The Network continues to expand its reach and distribution – with launch of Musik in the United Kingdom on 2 May 2006, adding to the existing ARY Digital, ARY One World and QTV packages.

    In June 2006, ARY Digital Network will also be launching ARY Digital, ARY One World and QTV in New Zealand and Australia.

    “We are proud to say that we are the largest South Asian Television network in the world with the most channels being distributed internationally, ” stated Iqbal. “It’s important for a network to be able to provide options to suit the taste buds of a wide cross section of viewers, be it in any region.”

    The Islamic channel QTV is also visible in India.

  • New Zealand goes on an African Safari; play 3 test series against the Proteas

    New Zealand goes on an African Safari; play 3 test series against the Proteas

    New Delhi, April 14, 2006- ESPN STAR Sports, Asia’s number one broadcaster, will telecast Live and exclusive, New Zealand’s African Safari starting April 15, 2006. The islanders play a 3 test series against the Proteas in continuance to their 5 ODI series in October 2005. New Zealand is the second team from the pacific to tour the African country this month after Australia.

    Kiwi premier bowler, Shane Bond, has been cleared to play the First test despite a niggling knee injury that kept the fast bowler sidelined during warm up matches. The lanky bowler has been a proven match winner for the Kiwis with an impressive record of 64 wickets in 14 tests at an average of just 17.57 runs per wicket.

    On the other hand, South African skipper Graeme Smith is struggling with his finger injury to be fit for the first test. The young Proteas captain and opening batsman has been fighting to be in shape since the last test he played against Australia in the first week of April. Jacques Kallis, who captained South Africa in that test, is on stand by to lead them in case of Smith not being declared fit.

    Kallis or Smith, the Proteas will have a big task on hand after a demoralising first ever whitewash at home in tests by Australia. The Kiwis would be looking to take their chances with the master tactician Stephen Fleming marshalling his troops ever so effectively. Fleming is arguably best captain in the game today.

    The two sides have met each other 30 times in a test match with South Africa leading the head to head count 14-6. The Kiwis would be looking to set the record straight and would look to take the series to prove their cynics wrong. New Zealand has been one of the best ODI sides but still needs to put things in perspective in Tests and they will be counting on this opportunity in South Africa.

    Catch the action live and exclusive on ESPN STAR Sports

    Schedule of the Bangladesh Vs Australia Test series

    Date
    Time
    Event
    Channel

    April 15-20, 2006
    13.58
    South Africa Vs New Zealand, First Test Match, Centurion
    ESPN

    April 27- May 1, 2006
    13.58
    South Africa Vs New Zealand, Second Test Match, Cape Town
    ESPN

    May 5-9, 2006
    13.28
    South Africa Vs New Zealand, Third Test Match, Johannesburg
    ESPN

    For further information, contact ESPN Software India Pvt. Ltd at
    011-4154 4444 – 51:
    Sameer Bajaj, Manager – Corporate Communications, Email:
    sameerb@espnstar.co.in
    Or Tarundeep Singh, IPAN at 011- 42492100, 9811017310 Email:
    tarundeep.singh@ipan.com
    For the latest schedules and programme information visit
    <http://www.espnstar.com/> www.espnstar.com

  • Tim Bowen is Sony BMG Music Entertainment COO

    Tim Bowen is Sony BMG Music Entertainment COO

    MUMBAI: Tim Bowen has been named chief operating officer of Sony BMG Music Entertainment. The announcement was made by the company’s CEO Rolf Schmidt-Holtz. Bowen will be based in New York and will report to Schmidt-Holtz.

    Bowen will work closely with Schmidt-Holtz in overseeing all aspects of the global music company’s operations. This will include direct responsibility for Sony BMG’s international operations, as well as the company’s global digital business, strategic marketing, legacy,

    masterworks and sales enterprise divisions. Bowen will also direct the company’s expanding audio-visual and TV interests on a worldwide basis and oversee human resources.

    “Tim brings to this role a deep understanding of both the creative and
    business aspects of the music industry. He has extensive experience with both of the companies that came together to form Sony BMG, and the dedication, passion and vision that are necessary to lead the joint venture into the future. He is clearly the right choice for this key post, and it is a true pleasure to announce his appointment,” said Schmidt-Holtz.

    “I’m delighted to have been given this opportunity. With a dynamic roster of current artists, a catalogue that includes an incredible number of legendary recordings, and impressive capabilities in the areas of marketing, distribution and digital initiatives, we have everything we need to establish Sony BMG as the clear leader in the global marketplace. I look forward to continuing my close working relationship with Rolf, as well as with managing directors from around the world and the entire Sony BMG team, as we realise the full potential of the joint venture,” added Bowen.

    Most recently Bowen served as chairman, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, for Sony BMG Music Entertainment International, a post he had held since February of 2004. He joined BMG in 2002 when he was appointed COO, BMG Europe by Schmidt-Holtz and carried out a number of international assignments before he was appointed chairman, BMG UK and Ireland in 2003. In the role of chairman he handled the operations of BMG and Zomba in the UK and Ireland and SYCO, Sony’s TV production company with Simon Cowell.

    Prior to joining BMG, Bowen worked for Universal Music International as senior vice president of marketing and business affairs and following the merger of Polygram and Universal Music he became executive vice president of Universal Music International.

  • Panamsat reports four per cent revenue growth

    Panamsat reports four per cent revenue growth

    MUMBAI: Global satellite service provider Panamsat has reported financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended 31 December, 2005

    For the year, total consolidated revenues of $861. million increased by 4.1 per cent from 2004 while video services revenues grew by 7.3 per cent over 2004. This year was significant as the company was acquired by Intelsat for $3.2 billion.

    The company paid down $676 million of long-term debt and paid out $300.3 million of dividends to shareholders as a result of strong financial results and a successful IPO. The company also achieved a year end 2005 cash balance of $126.3 million compared to $39 million at year end 2004.

    Total revenues for the fourth quarter of 2005 were $229.2 million, compared to revenues of $207.7 million for the same quarter last year, an increase of 10.4 per cent.

    Panamsat CEO Joe Wright said, “Panamsat finished the year in an extremely strong position as we completed one of the most successful years in the company’s history. Our management team has now met or exceeded guidance for four years in a row while also continuing to increase our revenues and profitability. The utilisation on our satellite

    fleet increased to 73 per cent compared to an industry average of less than 60 per cent, while our fleet reliability remained at an industry high of 99.9 per cent.

    “Equally as important as our strong financial results, we made real progress in the three major strategic areas that we identified early last year for future growth: 1) High Definition video in North America and expansion of Direct-to-Home (DTH) video services in international markets. 2) satellite-based connectivity in rural America and remote regions of the world and 3) servicing the U.S. Government. We capped off the year with an agreement to merge with Intelsat.
    “In the first strategic area of video expansion, we expanded our industry leading HD

    neighborhood in the U.S. on Galaxy 13 by signing a multiple year, multiple transponder contract with HDNet as well as by adding new channels to the platform including the Outdoor Channel. In addition, to meet strong demand for Ku-band capacity in North America, we signed an agreement with JSat to co-develop the Ku-band Horizons-2 satellite for the US market, which will support expanded HDTV, digital video, and IP-based content distribution

    networks to broadband Internet and satellite news gathering (SNG) services.

    “We also launched Vis-a-TV, an ethnic programming service for the U.S. marketplace. Vis-a-TV represents a milestone for the industry as it is the first time an operator will partner with its customers to bring the world’s programming to the U.S. Internationally, we developed the PanGlobal TV DTH

    platform in Australia, which currently offers 25 different channels of ethnic programming content and will be duplicated in additional international markets, including New Zealand, this year.

    “In our second strategic area, providing satellite-based connectivity to developing markets, several of our initiatives have already developed into real growth opportunities. In South Africa, we joined the Liberty Foundation and are providing over 1,000 schools with general curriculum and other teaching aids from Johannesburg. We are also using our satellites to provide health education to citizens across the country via a network of government healthcare clinics. In Mexico, we have joined with our partner Grupo Pegaso to expand satellite-based broadband services to government, enterprises and consumers.

    “Our G2 Satellite Solutions unit, formed several years ago, also made significant progress during the year. This Panamsat subsidiary now accounts for nearly $90 million in annual revenues and is recognised as one of the

    premier full-service total solutions providers to the U.S. Government. In 2005, the G2 team created a managed network solution specifically for the US government and its various agencies.

    “The network uses high-powered Ku-band beams around the globe to deliver voice, data, video and Internet connectivity. At the end of 2005, this service was installed in over 300
    locations and is projected to be the fastest growing part of the business. And, equally important, we were able to clearly demonstrate the value of our satellites in the case of emergencies such as Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma. We were ready then and will be in the future to provide communications services in the event of an emergency, either natural or man-made,” adds Wright.