Handsets that offer mobile TV
"Nokia has rolled out N92 and N77 handsets which come with an inbuilt DVB-H antenna. These are optimized for viewing and storing mobile TV content and accessing interactive mobile TV services. There is a project between Nokia and Samsung for developing phones for mobile TV application," said Vineet Taneja, Business Director—Multimedia, Nokia India. Apart from this joint venture, Samsung has rolled out its SCH-U620 model for mobile TV service.

Technology the kingpin
Though both Reliance and BSNL are in the contest, the technology they use is completely different in providing the service of TV in mobile phones. Reliance operates through CDMA where as BSNL is a GSM player.Reliance is also trying to provide services such as video on demand and other services. Whereas the case in BSNL is totally different. Any handset, which has the access to GPRS service and Symbion OS installed, can be used for viewing TV.

Channels available
Reliance mobile TV provides most of the regional and news channels including CNN, NDTV, Aaj Tak, and Times Now. This apart, Reliance has also proposed to bring in Geek TV. BSNL provides channels like NDTV, CNBC, Aaj Tak, Times Now, Zoom, Bindaas, ETV, and TV9, Jaya TV. Any one who holds BSNL connection can avail the service from his respective telecom circle and it would also be provided at the time of national roaming.

Cost angle
The costs for the services are quite high, however it depends on the individual to decide the affordability. Reliance provides 10kb for 10 paise and for viewing 5 minutes one needs to pay Rs. 15. There are monthly subscription rates such as Rs. 99 pack for all viewing all channels and many plans similar to that. Whereas BSNL offers huge schemes of introductory package by providing services for free of cost in few circles including Chennai.