Interactive TV Launches In The UK

Open, the interactive TV service jointly owned by BSkyB, BT, HSBC and Matsushita, launched today in the UK. The most advanced interactive television service in the world, it will be available to over 1 million SkyDigital subscribers across Britain.

Allowing viewers to shop, bank, send emails, play games and have access to a range of entertainment and information services through their television sets, the service has been trialling successfully since last month (see Open Launches £20 Million Marketing Campaign).

Using their remote control viewers will be able to purchase goods through their television set. At least eight retailers are signed up to the service with more expected over the coming months. Woolworth’s, WHSmith, Domino’s Pizza, Carphone Warehouse, Dixons, Manchester United, Kitbag Sports and music and video retailers Yalplay are selling goods through the platform; Somerfield 24-7 service will roll-out from today.

HSBC is providing financial services and First Call supplies a ticket service. Listings, reviews, travel and the weather are also available. From November a £35 keyboard will allow emails to be accessed.

Today saw a further addition to the service; Woolwich announced that its personal banking service, Open Plan, will be available from Spring 2000. It will allow customers to check balances and carry out transactions on their accounts.

Chief executive of Open, James Ackerman said: “Today is a significant moment in TV history as interactive TV is well and truly Open.”

Rival broadcaster ONdigital announced its own interactive plans at the beginning of this month; they include full internet access, a service not available on Open (see ONdigital Announces TV Internet Plans).

Open: 0171 332 7000