Video-On-Demand Trial In Hull

The information superhighway looks set to acquire another lane next year with the news that more video-on-demand trials are to be undertaken in the UK. London-based Video Networks Ltd is to run its own trials of on-line video services to the consumer.

250 homes in Hull have been chosen to receive the trial, in mid-1996. Video Network’s partner in the trial is Kingston Communications, which already provides telephone services for Hull and the surrounding region.

Customers will be able to choose from a broad package which is likely to include Hollywood movies, TV programmes, interactive learning packages, local programming, home shopping and banking. There will also be an on-line marketing assessment programme enabling companies to test advertising and promotion. Assuming the trial’s success, Video Networks intends to expand its services to Hull beyond the initial trial customers and eventually hopes to offer national services.

BT is to undergo its own video-on-demand trials this summer in Colchester and Ipswich for £4.99 per month for the basic service. Video Networks will announce full programming and pricing details later this year.

Video Network’s chairman, Simon Hochhauser commented, “We see the national provision of on-line video services as a tremendously exciting business goal. Both of the major political parties have now made clear their commitment to a fair and open access policy with regard to BT’s network. BT’s evaluation of its network’s ability to carry these services has made it one of the world’s leading telecommunications companies in the area… Video Networks aims to be in a position to take the fullest advantage that BT’s vision will provide.”

Video Networks: 0171 925 1000