July 23, 2004
Digital Broadcasts Go Mobile
Pocket-size devices such as cellular telephones capable of receiving digital terrestrial and satellite broadcasts may soon be a reality, judging from a number of prototypes unveiled here at the Wireless Japan 2004 Expo this week, reports PC World.com.
"The first that is likely to come to market is a prototype receiver being shown by Mobile Broadcasting (MBCO). The company launched a co-owned satellite with South Korea (news - web sites)'s TU Media earlier this year, and plans to begin beaming a seven-channel video and 30-channel audio service to subscribers in mid-October.
Unlike existing satellite systems that require large dish antennas, the MBCO service uses lower-frequency signals around 2.6 GHz, close to those used by third-generation (3G) cellular services, so it can be received by an antenna built into a portable receiver.
A similar service is expected to be launched in South Korea by TU Media. Samsung Electronics has previously shown prototype cellular telephones with embedded satellite receivers that will support that service.
The Permanent Link to this page is: http://www.textually.org/picturephoning/archives/2004/07/004649.htm