Sunday, December 12, 2004

IP Based Television

The subject matter has become mainstream and even Business Week has a special report on the topic. Will VOD work? Are carriers able to execute in a new business of more than just dial-tone? Even though a handful of carriers, including SBC, Bell Canada, Swisscom, & Telecom Italia, are actively pursuing pilot programs with various component suppliers, they're moving at ice age speeds... Plus, technology is only one of the hurdles; these telecoms have to completely change their business perspectives. Voice is one business; entertainment, content & media is clearly very different and will require a completely different modus operandi.

VON Magazine discusses the VOD model and whether it could be an acceptable alternative or complement to cable (or satellite) TV delivery. What delivery model are RBOCs going to follow? What will consumers go for? Is FTTP a better focus as a long-term investment?

posted by Charles @ Sunday, December 12, 2004