Qualcomm and FAR EASTONE to trial MediaFLO mobile TV in Taiwan

Qualcomm has announced it has signed a non-binding MOU with FAR EASTONE to explore the creation of a broadcast mobile media operator using MediaFLO technology in Taiwan. FAR EASTONE is one of the largest mobile network operators in Taiwan, where pay TV penetration has reached over 81 percent. The discussions between Qualcomm and FAR EASTONE come in advance of an anticipated UHF spectrum auction in early 2011, when Taiwan’s regulatory agency, the National Communications Commission, is expected to issue two mobile TV licenses in the market.

“We are committed to working with local players to commercialize MediaFLO mobile media services in Taiwan and drive business results for Taiwan’s information and communications technology industry,” said Neville Meijers, senior vice president and general manager of Qualcomm MediaFLO Technologies. “We are now in discussions with FAR EASTONE to determine the right business model and structure of a possible MediaFLO venture.”