Nokia launches new mobile TV channel

by Milly Glaister, Media Week 22-Sep-08, 10:50

LONDON - Mobile phone giant Nokia is launching a new mobile TV channel, Capsule N96, offering exclusive entertainment and lifestyle programming for those using its N96 handset.

Available to download from 1 October, Capsule N96 programmes all run to 96 seconds, offering content themed around motoring, fashion, gadgets, comedy, culture and homes.

The debut of Capsule N96 also marks the launch of the N96 smart phone handset in the UK, positioned as a competitor for the iPhone and the Blackberry, with an initial launch on O2 followed by other UK networks.

Among the programmes on offer via Capsule N96 are Pulse, a show covering the UK arts and entertainment scene presented by Wayne Hemmingway, while Power Pads is presented by designer Ben de Lisi, who takes viewers through the doors of glamorous homes.

Meanwhile, Portfolio gives viewers the latest fashion news presented by actress Margo Stilley. Technology expert David Phelan fronts gadget show Byte Wise, and motoring journalist and Five's Fifth Gear presenter Jonny Smith presents motoring show Cabin Fever.

New "mobisodes" of each show will be available for weekly download until the end of November.

The launch comes after Nokia added major publishers to its mobile advertising network last week, including Telegraph Media Group and Five owner RTL Group.