Business - Bharti ushers in DTH services

Bharti Airtel Limited has announced the launch of Airtel digital TV, its direct to home (DTH) satellite TV service. The new DTH service provider claims to be a perfect blend of latest technology, unique features and great content, and promises to redefine the digital home entertainment experience. In the first phase, from October 9 onwards, the service will be available to customers through 21,000 retail points, including Airtel Relationship Centres, in 62 cities across the country. On the occasion, Manoj Kohli, CEO and joint managing director, Bharti Airtel, said, "We are starting a new chapter in our journey, one that adds a new dimension to our existing product portfolio and is a major step towards transforming Airtel from just a telecom brand to a lifestyle enabler. The launch of Airtel digital TV is the culmination of our three screens strategy, which is to be present across mobile phone, computer and TV screens." Atul Bindal, President - Telemedia Services, Bharti Airtel, added, "We believe that the Indian DTH segment offers immense growth potential going forward. Given our deep understanding of Indian customer, we believe that Airtel has created an excellent product offering. With added benefits of Airtel's strong brand equity and wide distribution network, we are well placed to emerge as a leading player in this segment."Airtel digital TV will use MPEG4 standard with DVB S2 technology, which translates into exceptional picture clarity and consistent high quality audio. This technology also enables delivery of more complex interactive content and is High Definition ready. Airtel digital TV will also use 20 per cent larger dish antennae, so as to offer better performance during rain. The DTH provider will also offer several interactive applications, such as iMatinee – book cinema tickets; iTravel – browse and book travel packages; iShop – shop on TV; iCity – city information and widgets that offer updates on stock news. The service also comes with exclusive content, such as World Space radio, and has a universal remote for both the set top box and the TV.