e.tv and DStv have announced the launch of a new mobile TV service, under the labels: e.Mobile and DStv Mobile. e.Mobile features free-to-air channels, and DStv Mobile features subscription channels.
The two broadcasters joined-up in the venture by acquiring an ICASA license for network coverage using DVB-H technology, Digital Video Broadcasting - Handheld.
The license allows for the mobile broadcast of 15 channels between the two, e.tv has 40% of the platform, and DStv 60%.
DVB-H is a mobile TV broadcasting format, different from applications such as 3G which involves live streaming. DStv has a 3G Mobile service available too.
The biggest impact of the difference between the two for consumers is that once you're connected with a DVB-H phone or adapter, you don't pay for data or bandwidth while watching TV - which you do when you watch via live streaming services such as 3G. There are also no caps on the amount of data you use.
Viewing on a DVB-H phone or via decoder (explained below) gives you unlimited TV access, 24-hours a day.
To keep the explanation as simple as possible, here's a rundown of fast facts about the technology, service and future:
>> The channels available on e.Mobile, free of charge are: eNews and Channel O. Up to four more channels will be introduced to this bouquet in the future, including e.tv.
>> The channels available on DStv Mobile are: SuperSport 1, 2, 3 and Blitz, Africa Magic, Cartoon Network, Trace and a DStv Events Channel. Up to two channels will be added to this bouquet too, until the two bouquets reach the license channel-max.
>> There is no subscription charge for the e.Mobile service - it will always be free-to-air.
>> The DStv Mobile service is free from now, until 31 March 2011 on DVB-H enabled phones. You obviously need a cellphone contract or prepaid package to access both bouquets.
>> You need a valid TV license to get a DVB-H enabled phone.
>> As from 1 April, DStv Mobile will cost R36 per month, which will be added to your cellphone package if you opt for it.
>> Even though the service is linked up with cellular, the service works through independent transmittors so it's not dependent on the network of mobile operators.
>> If you're a DStv subscriber, either on the Premium of Compact Bouquet, the service will be free until April
2012.>> There are three DVB-H enabled phones currently available: the Nokia N96, Nokia 5330 and ZTE F900. More will be introduced by cellphone providers.
>> If you have a DVB-H enabled phone or device, you don't need a different simcard to access the broadcast.
>> If you don't have a DVB-H enabled phone or want to access the service via another device, DStv has introduced a decoder called the Drifta. It plugs into devices to give them DVB-H capability.
The Drifta
>> It receives the DVB-H signal and transmits it over a Wi-Fi network for Wi-Fi enabled viewing devices such as PCs, tablets and smartphones.
>> The recommended price is R599. They go on sale on 1 December and will be available at DStv branches, as well as national retailers such as Makro, Incredible Connection and Hi Fi Corporation.
>> The decoder is currently compatible with the iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, PC’s and laptops. Other devices such as Blackberries, Nokia and Android smartphones will follow.
>> The operating system requirements for the decoder:
Windows:
Version: 1.0.3
Requirements: OS:
Windows XP (Min Service Pack 2), Vista, 7
Processor: 32 bit and 64 bit
Min Memory: 512MB
Min HDD: 100MB
IOS: Version:
IOS:
Version: 1.01.00
Requirements:
iPod Touch, iPhone 3G, 3GS, 4: IOS Version 4.0, 4.1 iPad: iOS Version 3.2
>> To receive the broadcast on either a phone or via the Drifta you need to be in an area that receives DVB-H coverage.
>> It's currently available in these locations: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Rustenburg, Mbombela (Nelspruit), Polokwane, Port Elizabeth and Durban.