The jury’s out as to whether the future lies in TV or second screen apps, according to GW Shaw, VP, U-verse and video product market, AT&T.
In the meantime, AT&T remains focused on both, though n his view the best opportunities seem to be presenting themselves in second screen.
Shaw said that U-verse is now the fastest growing TV service in the US, having over 5 million subscribers and an annual revenue stream of £6 billion.
It has 35 TV and 15 mobile device apps, with the focus on the former being to entertain, educate, enhance and improve.
The TV apps give access to over 100 live channels, plus 8,000 VOD titles. U-verse is also a 100% IP-enabled platform, allowing for additional functionalities.
Shaw said research by AT&T had shown that 65-70% of its customers use a mobile device several times a week while watching TV.
Furthermore, two-thirds of its customers use an app each month.
He also said that second screen apps present opportunities for service providers, developers, content providers and consumers.
