GECs
ITV inks deal with Mobile Interactive for 3G tech
MUMBAI: Mobile Interactive Group (MIG), the global multimedia mobile services specialist, announced a unique technical partnership to provide Europes largest broadcaster, ITV, with a full range of mobile interactive services on a preferred supplier basis across the UK and Ireland.
Mobile Interactive Group managing director Barry Houlihan said, “ITVs complete range of mobile services will be delivered and billed using MIGs purpose built premium SMS delivery platform. Voting for event led entertainment shows such as I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here will be handled by MIGs industry leading, high volume SMS voting application Votewinner.”
A full range of strategic services will also be provided, including consultancy on emerging mobile applications relevant for TV and production support to the development of new mobile concepts. This will enable ITV to target its viewers with pioneering mobile video and 3G applications. ITV will also be able to service its commercial partners wishing to develop mobile based revenue opportunities.
The partnership demonstrates a major commitment by ITV to making mobile a key interactive revenue stream, enabling ITV to capitalise on its leading position in interactive entertainment and further build on the huge success of shows like This Morning and I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here.
MIGs purpose built technology has a proven pedigree, having delivered mass interactive mobile services for broadcasters and production companies in both Europe and Asia.
“ITV is emerging as a leader in participation based broadcasting. The partnership with MIG is testament to its commitment to delivering compelling programming which pushes the boundaries of audience participation through mobile interactivity,” Houlihan said.
“MIG has worked with broadcasters from across the globe to deliver interactive mobile services and welcomes the opportunity to deliver some mobile technology firsts with ITV during the coming months,” he added.
ITV Interactive head Jane Marshall said, “ITV will benefit from MIGs worldwide expertise to facilitate the launch of new mobile revenue streams and build on its previous successes in this space. With MIGs combined people, technology and approach, we are currently developing mobile services which will enable our viewers to interact like never before with our award winning roster of entertainment programmes.”
GECs
Samsung TV Plus launches Kings of Comedy channel
New free FAST channel brings iconic Hindi comedy shows to millions of Samsung Smart TV owners.
MUMBAI: Samsung TV Plus has just turned up the laughter volume and it’s completely free. The leading free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service in India has launched Kings of Comedy, a premium comedy channel featuring some of the country’s most beloved primetime shows. Available exclusively on Samsung TV Plus, the channel delivers back-to-back hits including Comedy Nights with Kapil, Khatra Khatra Khatra, and Comedy Nights Bachao, with no login or subscription required.
The launch marks a milestone for free streaming in India, offering audiences a dedicated comedy destination directly from their Samsung TV home screen. It arrives as Samsung TV Plus India celebrates its 5th anniversary, during which the service has grown its monthly active users by 42 per cent and more than doubled its total viewing hours. The platform now offers over 180 free channels across 14 languages.
Samsung TV Plus India general manager and head of business development Kunal Mehta said, “Comedy is the heartbeat of Hindi entertainment, and Kings of Comedy brings together the shows Indians already love, completely free on their Samsung TV. Our focus remains the same take the content people know and make it effortless to access.”
Globally, Samsung TV Plus has surpassed 100 million monthly active users across more than 4,500 channels, solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading free streaming services.
Kings of Comedy is now available on all compatible Samsung Smart TVs. For viewers seeking non-stop laughter without any cost, this new channel delivers a royal treat proving that sometimes the best entertainment really does come with no strings (or subscriptions) attached.
