The future is here: Mobile DTV launch

WASHINGTON (KXAN) - Broadcasters and staffs of technology companies joined with members of Congress on Capitol Hill Thursday for a ceremonial launch of digital Mobile TV.

Mobile TV is already running in 50 markets at a total of 130 stations, including KXAN in Austin.

Legislators praised the innovations that have consumers and broadcasters excited for what the future will bring. For example, wireless customers now have the opportunity to side-step the data caps imposed by wireless phone or tablet contracts, and instead view video through mobile broadcasting.

On Friday, Boeing announced it will begin to fit its new 787 Dreamliner and 747-8 intercontinental planes with special features for passengers who want more of that "mobile" technology lifestyle, including watch live television, use the Internet and make mobile phone calls. The company plans to have wireless streaming by 2014.

In a room filled to capacity, attendees heard from House Communications Subcommittee members who praised mobile digital television, including Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif., who called the day "a celebration of American innovation." She cited studies which say as many as 70 percent of video consumers want to access programming on devices other than a television screen.

Bill Lake, head of the Federal Communication Commission’s Media Bureau , attended the event in support of the broadcasters.

Rep. Ed Markey. D-Mass., the longest serving member of the Communications Subcommittee, said the key words were "free," "mobile" and it "doesn't need more spectrum." In addition, he said, it is a "done deal," according to Broadcasting & Cable.

The audience got a chance to see the new technology, including demos by Dyle TV and Mobile 500, along with an MEAS demonstration by LG.

The Samsung Galazy phone is one of the first to offer mobile DTV service, according to Broadcasting & Cable magazine.

While Mobile DTV is not new, new products for the service being introduced to the market over the next three months include a mobile RCA 7-inch TV (about $230) and an iPad adaptor, according to John Eggerton, with Broadcasting & Cable.