Radio Times stays in touch with move into EPG territory

by Daniel Farey-Jones, Brand Republic 18-Apr-05, 11:00

LONDON – Radio Times has signed a deal with Gemstar, the media technology company owned by Rupert Murdoch, to extend its brand and content into TV electronic programme guides.

The tie-up involves Radio Times providing listings content and reviews, as well as selling advertising, on Gemstar's Guide Plus+ electronic programme guide.

Gemstar said that its EPG will be built into a range of digital devices from digital TVs to DVD recorders and personal video recorders. The EPG is free to consumers and allows them to browse and select for viewing the next seven days of TV.

Gill Hudson, editor of Radio Times, said: "For 80 years, Radio Times has been providing UK consumers with the most widely used and recognised TV listings. There is now no format not covered by Radio Times."

Radio Times already provides content via a wide range of platforms from mobile phones, including a text messaging service, to PDAs, online, and the now the Guide Plus+ EPG.

Simon Adams, deputy managing director of Gemstar TV Guide's European division, said that the deal would provide users with a quick, easy, and free way to intelligently navigate what is an increasingly complex entertainment environment.

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