Skype’s the Limit for Internet TV
| Skype are entering the already saturated internet protocol television (IPTV) market, joining media and telecoms companies to bring TV into the future of the internet age. The new Skype IPTV service was demonstrated in a South London Starbucks before going on trial to 6,000 users. Janus Friis, one of the Skype developers said: “It will be a success if advertisers like it, content owners like it and viewers love it.” |  |
| IPTV is capable of displaying high-quality full-screen video on a computer screen and is becoming a massive focus of media and telecoms companies including the BBC, ITV and Channel 4. Skype owners acknowledge the IPTV market is already saturated, but they refuse to be left out. Mr Friis said: “You can do TV over the internet in a really good way. TV is a huge medium – that’s something we’d like to be a part of.” For users to access Skype’s IPTV service they will be required to download the software, giving them access to a menu screen which can open programmes, fast forward, rewind, and pause. Sharing and commentary services will also feature as part of the new service. Skype’s free TV service is expected to become live on the web next year.
By Lisa Malyon | |
