BSkyB trials MediaFLO for mobile TV

A BSkyB trial will broadcast 10 channels using Qualcomm's MediaFLO standard

BSkyB is to start trials of a new mobile TV system in partnership with US handset manufacturer Qualcomm.

Qualcomm's MediaFLO technology will be used in the trials to broadcast 10 channels that can be picked up by mobile devices.

The standard will compete with the existing DVB-H and DMB mobile TV systems being trialled by Virgin Mobile and O2 in London and Oxford respectively. 

"BSkyB is committed to offering customers flexible ways to enjoy our services," said Stephen Nuttall, group director of business development at the broadcaster.

"We have led the way in the delivery of mobile TV over existing platforms and we look forward to working with Qualcomm in this technical trial to evaluate the potential of MediaFLO."

The new standard faces tough competition, however. Nokia has already announced that it will only support DVB-H.

The handsets used in the MediaFLO trials are designed primarily for television viewing, but only manufacturers like Samsung are building combined mobile TV and phone hardware to fit the standard.

"We expect this trial to demonstrate a strong validation of the value Qualcomm believes MediaFLO technology offers both in Europe and other markets around the world," said Peggy Johnson, president of internet services and MediaFLO technologies at Qualcomm.

"The openness of the MediaFLO system, as well as its significant advantages with respect to coverage, power consumption and cost, set it apart from other competing technologies."

• Experts back DVB-H for mobile TV in Europe