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Microsoft brings broadband connectivity, MSN TV to mobile customers
MUMBAI: Microsoft Corp. and KVH Industries, Inc. have inked a deal to bring the MSN TV service to consumers travelling in cars, trucks and boats in the US.
KVH’s Mobile Internet Receiver with MSN TV service will provide in-motion access to web browsing, Microsoft Windows Media Player, MSN Mail and MSN Messenger, digital photo viewing, MSN Video, and MSN Radio with two-way connections made possible by broadband EVDO cellular services.
The result will be the first in-motion product to offer consumers easy-to-use, high-speed internet access on the television screens already installed in cars and other vehicles. KVH’s Mobile Internet Receiver with MSN TV service will also include Wi-Fi output to provide Internet connectivity to a wide range of Wi-Fi-enabled products.
“Today’s consumers expect to be able to stay connected while they’re on the move in their vehicles. With the availability of MSN TV service on KVH’s Mobile Internet Receiver, consumers will now be able to communicate, access information, and enjoy digital entertainment wherever their travels may take them,” said Microsoft general manager for the MSN TV division Sam Klepper.
“There is clearly a demand for mobile access to live media ranging from satellite TV to broadband Internet With more than 20 million automobiles expected to be equipped with video screens by 2011 and color TVs as standard equipment aboard boats for many years, these screens provide an excellent platform not only for live satellite TV and gaming, but also for an integrated Internet solution. KVH looks forward to working with Microsoft on the Mobile Internet Receiver with MSN TV service that will leverage these screens and MSN TV technology to offer consumers an affordable, reliable source of two-way, in-motion Internet access,” said KVH president and CEO Martin Kits van Heyningen.
Consumers will be able to enjoy in-motion connections to a variety of MSN communication, information and entertainment services. The high-speed connection, offered by an EVDO (Evolution Data Optimized) data modem that KVH is integrating into the Mobile Internet Receiver, will leverage existing broadband data services offered by several major cellular companies.
EVDO service is available in more than 170 markets nationwide, with new markets being added on an ongoing basis. By using EVDO services for connectivity along with built-in Wi-Fi output, the vehicle or vessel is turned into a “mobile hot spot.” Passengers will be able to connect to other Internet services using Wi-Fi-enabled laptop computers, personal digital assistants and other devices using an Internet browser, e-mail application or instant messaging tool.
The pricing for the Mobile Internet Receiver with MSN TV service will be announced at a later date.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
