Date:24/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/07/24/stories/2006072402800100.htm

Back Mobile operators to launch interactive FM radio services

Thomas K Thomas

Visuals and song related details among services being offered

New Delhi , July 23

Now you can watch visuals while you listen to FM radio on your mobile handset. Mobile operators including Airtel and Hutch are all set to launch a new service called `Visual Radio' which will enable users to get visuals, information and details related to the song and the singer while listening to the radio. The service will also enable users to download the song as ring tone and interact live through quizzes and audience polls.

Launch soon

While Airtel is ready to launch this service by the end of the month, Hutch is announcing the launch this week. The subscribers do not have to pay any subscription fee for the service for now but once the introductory offer period is over the operators may fix a monthly fee. However, users will have to pay in case they download the song or participate in the interactive services. Both the operators have tied up with Radio Mirchi, Hewlett Packard and Nokia for the service.

Services offered

Visual Radio offers immediate access to factual content related to the songs playing, the group or the singer playing, their background details, history, related quizzes, participation in audience polls and even the facility to download ring tones and wallpaper related to the song. Mobile users can also buy the tickets for concerts or movies from which the song is being played.

"Images and texts are synchronised with the radio broadcast to bring information and interactivity directly to the mobile phone. Research indicates that people listen to 63 minutes of radio on an average day. Can you imagine enhancing their daily experience multiple-fold through the visual medium? That is exactly what we are doing for our Airtel customers. This service is a great example of technologies converging on the mobile and this means that Airtel customers can view related information and other exciting entertainment while listening to their favourite songs," said Mr Sanjay Kapoor, Joint President Mobility, Bharti Airtel Ltd.