Mobile operator O2 has launched a mobile TV service in the Irish market. Although previously involved in DVB-H trials in the Republic, O2 is streaming the broadcasts over the 3G network, to handsets manufactured by Nokia, Samsung and Sony Ericsson.
The offering has been segmented into two bouquets. The Lifestyle pack includes RTE News Now, Cartoon Network, CNN, O2 Blueroom, Travel Channel, BBC World News and Boomerang. Although the majority of the channels are streamed live, Cartoon Network, Boomerang and Travel consist of a two-hour loop. The Sports and News Pack consists of Sky Sports 1, 2, 3 and Xtra, Sky Sports News, At the Races, Sky News and CNN.
After a 30-day grace period for customers signing up before September 9, 2009, the service will be charged at €1 for a 24-hour pass, while a 30-day pass will cost €5 for the lifestyle pack and €6 for Sports and News.