Bulldog Set To Launch Video On-Demand
Bulldog Broadband looks set to become the latest provider of video-on-demand services, with reports circulating that the company will launch its own attempt on the fledgling TV via IP market later this year.
However, the company has refused to confirm its intentions, stating instead that it is simply reviewing its options for expansion.
Bulldog, a subsidiary of Cable & Wireless, would be a prime candidate to offer on-demand TV services, however, as its pioneering approach to the unbundling of BT’s local loop architecture has enabled it to offer very fast broadband connections.
The company currently offers 8 megabit connections to home users, making its service one of the fastest available. However, a move from internet service provider to content provider could be fraught with danger, not least from increased competition in the sector.
Both ntl and Telewest have begun to roll out their video on-demand services, while London-based HomeChoice is continuing to expand its TV via IP network.
In addition, TV services from BT look set to be launched this year, and rumours persist that Sky will soon enter the market (see New Sky Box To Pack Broadband For On-Demand TV).
Any move by Sky into the on-demand arena is likely to build upon its fledgling Sky By Wire brand, currently employed to provide Sky’s sports and movie channels to HomeChoice customers via their broadband connection (see Sky Boosts Audience Reach With HomeChoice Deal).
However, the recent creation of a system for broadband users to access sports and movie content via their PC indicates that the company is willing to explore other delivery channels (see Sky To Provide Content Via Internet Downloads).
A recent report from Informa Telecoms & Media predicted that Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) will reach 25.9 million subscribers globally by the end of 2010, up from just 2.7 million at the end of 2005. The UK is expected to be the third largest market place for IPTV globally, with an expected 1.5 million subscribers (see IPTV To Reach 25.9 Million By 2010).
Bulldog Broadband: www.bulldogbroadband.com