Verizon launches mobile TV in US

US operator Verizon Wireless on Thursday launched a broadcast TV service for mobiles for $15 (£7.70) a month, the company’s first mobile TV venture.

Verizon, which developed the service with Qualcomm, said the initial launch will cover about 20 states.

Customers have an option to buy the service bundled with Verizon’s mobile Web access and its V Cast video clip service for $25 a month. The service includes eight channels broadcasting to mobiles 24 hours a day. Networks include CBS Mobile, Comedy Central, ESPN, MTV, NBC 2Go, NBC News 2Go and Nickelodeon.

Most of the programming will be identical to those on regular TV but, said Verizon, only some will be broadcast at the same time.The service uses a dual-mode handset from Samsung which costs $200 without signing a new Verizon contract, or $50 less with a new contract. Verizon said a second handset, from LG is due “in the coming weeks”.