October 30, 2005
Disney courts controversy with move into UK mobile market
Times Online reports that the Walt Disney Company has started to recruit executives for the possible launch of a mobile-phone company next year.
"Headhunters acting for Disney have approached potential managers working for existing mobile-network operators. The move apes an initiative under development in America where Disney is working with Sprint, a leading mobile company.
Disney would be risking controversy by entering the mobile market in Britain because its service could be seen as appealing to children; the UK mobile-phone industry has agreed not to market explicitly to children for fear they are more likely to suffer from prolonged exposure to radio waves.
However, millions of under-18s in Britain use mobile phones, making the “no marketing” stance somewhat irrelevant.
In America, the company has presented Disney Mobile as a service for families, but critics suggest many of its characters would inevitably appeal to young children.
Disney declined to confirm its plans. In a statement from its internet group, it said: “We constantly look at business opportunities in other markets around the world, but there are no announcements to be made regarding the UK.
Disney already runs a website, Disneymobile.co.uk, offering ringtones, wallpapers and games for mobile phones."
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