BT say their service will be a world first combining access to digital terrestrial channels, an extensive video on demand library and a range of interactive services. The unique combination of these unrivalled services will provide BT customers nationwide with choice, convenience and control over their home entertainment without the need to commit to expensive monthly subscriptions.
Ian Livingston, BT Retail CEO, said: “A partnership between the country's leading communications company and three of the world’s leading entertainment groups is great news for consumers in the UK. I’m delighted the BBC Worldwide, Paramount and Warner Music Group share our vision. Our customers will be able to enjoy enhanced TV services and easy access to a wealth of interactive content and new services straight to their TV. Whether you are a music fan, love films or hooked on drama you will get the best in entertainment when you want it. BT is defining next generation TV”.
John Smith, CEO BBC Worldwide, said, “With video on demand rapidly shaping the future of television, we are very pleased to be part of BT’s TV service from the outset, providing subscribers with blue chip programmes and high quality viewing.”
Nick Phillips, Chairman of Warner Music UK, said, "We are pleased to partner with BT as the first music provider to this innovative distribution service. Industry leading agreements and unique partnerships like the one we announce today are an important component of Warner Music's global strategy to become a multifaceted, music content company.”
The agreement with Paramount provides BT with Paramount's blockbuster films in the pay-per-view window as well as an extensive range or older and classic films from the famous Paramount movie archive, all on demand.
The announcement today follows BT recent agreements with Europe’s largest electronics company Philips to supply the set top box which will deliver the high definition services and an alliance with Microsoft, which will provide Microsoft TV IPTV Edition as the software platform.