I Want My, I Want My M(obile)TV
Would you watch television on your mobile device? Rogers Wireless thinks you will after unveiling plans today to offer Canada's first mobile TV service through a deal with MobiTV. Before dissing the idea of mobile TV, it is important to remember that younger consumers see their mobile devices as essential tools. Leaving the house without their wireless device is as bad as forgetting their wallets. As these people grow up, their use of services such as e-mail, Web browsing, music downloading and TV will be as much a part of the mobile experience as voice. Of course, it's going to take a few years before mobile TV gains real momentum but it could be a big wireless hit to access sports highlights, news clips and entertainment content. A key factor will be how carriers price it. If they offer user-friendly packages - pay-as-you-go, a la carte and all-you-can-eat - this would be a real plus. Another issue is whether networks will be fast enough to produce a good TV experience.
