Siano Mobile Silicon Ltd. yesterday launched Carmel, a miniature digital terrestrial TV (DTT) accessory for receiving TV stations (Channel 1, Channel 2, and Channel 10) on Apple's iPads and iPhones. The application will be made available to Orange franchisee Partner Communications Ltd. (Nasdaq: PTNR; TASE: PTNR) subscribers in a few days.
Siano's digital TV processors turn tablets and smartphones into TV receivers without the need for a link to a mobile network.
"Every Israeli pays the TV and radio fee," says Siano president and CEO Alon Ironi. "It should be possible to view quality TV for free anywhere - at home, at the beach, on the bus, at a neighborhood cafe, or in a park."
In addition to viewing TV, the Carmel accessory can record shows for later viewing, for example, in case of an incoming phone call during a news program. The device also shows the TV schedule for the coming week.
Siano will launch an Android version of the Carmel accessory during the summer.
"Siano is an example of how technology can create a social opportunity, giving Israelis simple access for viewing TV stations anywhere, anytime, without any financial commitment to the cable and satellite broadcasters," said Siano and JVP chairman Erel Margalit. "I hope that the new product's launch in Israel will increase competition between broadcasters, which will benefit all Israelis."
The Carmel accessory will cost Partner subscribers NIS 325. The interface will be offered to subscribers of other mobile carriers later.
In January, Siano launched RallyTV, a platform enabling travelers to watch live TV broadcasts directly on smartphones, tablets, and laptops while on public transportation, such as buses or trains. The broadcasts are not transmitted via mobile carriers, which lowers customers' costs. RallyTV does not require the installation of any special hardware or software on the user's gadget as it is installed in the vehicle.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on June 11, 2012
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