Nokia: Mobile TV Will Be Big by 2008

Handset manufacturer Nokia said Thursday that it was placing its bets on mobile television as becoming the next big thing, saying it would reach mass appeal within two years. The Finnish cell phone maker cited studies and trials that indicate the technology is appealing to many consumers, and that they would be willing to pay 5 to 10 euros ($6 to $11 USD) per month for such a service. The statements were made as part of a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Nokia has lent its support to the DVB-H standard, one of about a half-dozen options proposed. The standard has already gained the support of several companies in the United States, who are working to implement it as soon as possible. However, in some countries in Europe, the needed frequencies are unavailable. This means some countries like Finland, France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands will have the technology available soon, while others may need to wait several years.