MUMBAI: Following the footsteps of sister channel Star One, Channel [V] is planning to offer mobisodes for cellphone users.
The music channel is in the process of identifying properties which can be created for made-for-mobile programming, a service that can generate a new revenue stream for broadcasters.
A mobisode is a brief episode of a video programme designed to be viewed on a mobile phone.
Speaking to Indiantelevision.com, Channel [V] head honcho Amar K Deb says, "Yes, we are exploring this option and are keenly looking at the mobisodes market."
Not providing any further details, Deb however admitted that a few of the channel's prized properties were being identified for converting into mobisodes. Says he, "You just keep watching your mobile phones, it will come soon."
In India, Star India has tied-up with mobile service provider Hutch to create mobisodes of the successful Star One comedy show The Great Indian Laughter Challenge (TGILC).
On the international arena, broadcasters are eyeing at this market as an important source of new revenue. Bite-sized programming from some of the television shows that can be accessed via mobile phones include VH1's Best Week Ever, Comedy Central's - The Daily Show,and Nickelodeon's - Dora the Explorer.
Channel [V] is also looking at exploiting the wireless platform. It has taken the reality talent hunt into a new mode in the form of an interactive hunt - [v] Mobile Singer - on the wireless platform, says Deb. "We believe in creating innovative content. The wireless age is the next big thing to explore. With [v] Mobile Singer, we have entered that sphere. The concept provides an opportunity for all aspirants to practice and participate anywhere."
The participants need to dial 1905-425-7827 to register and sing any one of their favourite Bappi Lahiri's songs as part of the initial audition phase. [v] Mobile Singer is somewhat based on the concept of karaoke.
Channel [V]'s revenues jumped by 40 per cent in the last fiscal due to the success of some of the properties like [V] Super Singer, Freedom Express and [V] on the Run, says Deb. "The agenda this year is to exploit the wireless and digital platform. The reality hunt will be our biggest programming effort," he adds.
