Ericsson selected for new dedicated London TV channel

London Live has awarded Ericsson a five-year broadcast services contract for its new London-dedicated TV channel. The Evening Standard, London’s most read newspaper, was awarded the 12-year licence in February 2013 to broadcast the first London-centric TV channel and will launch the channel in spring 2014.

London Live will be transmitted around the clock via terrestrial and satellite digital TV channels as well as multiscreen IP delivery. Viewers will be able to watch the channel on television and online, via PCs and mobile devices.

Bryn Balcombe, head of technology at London Live, says: “Ericsson was a clear choice for London Live as we gear up for our launch in 2014. Ericsson has invaluable experience working with new entrants to the media and broadcast arena and we have been impressed by their innovative and competitive services. With the help of Ericsson, we will be able to deliver the very best in content in the best way possible to our audience, both via innovative IP delivery and traditional linear channel playout.”

Thorsten Sauer, head of broadcast services at Ericsson, says: “Europe is an important market for us and Ericsson’s objective is to enable content owners, brands and broadcasters to deliver and monetize video-based services to viewers across all platforms. We are particularly keen to work with and support new entrants to the broadcast market. ESTV’s London Live channel is a fantastic example of print and online media moving into television and we hope this is just the start of a long and fruitful relationship.”