The History Channel Launches WAP Mobile Service in the U.K.

NEW YORK/LONDON, March 29: The History Channel has launched
a direct-to-consumer mobile service in the U.K., delivering the network’s
content to viewers via WAP for the first time, with localized versions of the
channel’s mobile service rolling out in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and
Asia later this year.

To promote the launch, the subscription service will be
available for free for the first six weeks. Bertelsmann-owned Arvato Mobile built and will serve the platform
for the service, which will be offered on a range of tiers that include a free
service, pay per download or subscription. The U.K. service also gives users
direct mobile access to a 30,000-entry encyclopedia from The History Channel,
allowing viewers to search for dates and facts wherever they are. The History
Channel mobile service can be accessed in the U.K. by texting HISTORY to 81066
or through the mobile URL, mobile.thehistorychannel.co.uk.

Content from the new The History Channel WAP mobile service
includes a “This Day in History“ daily feature with text and images, program
information, video highlights, quizzes, polls and competitions. Through the
subscription and pay per download services consumers can view short form video
and download wallpapers and games.

The History Channel currently has mobile TV services in the
U.K. with Vodafone Sky Mobile, Three and Orange; in Portugal with Vodafone, TMN
and Optimus; in Spain with Vodafone; in Latin America on Claro in Brazil and
Telcel; in Mexico through MobiTV, and in Turkey through Mobilturk.

“We are pleased to offer The History Channel content to
users via this new mobile service,” said Steve Ronson, the executive VP of
enterprises at A&E Television Networks (AETN). The platform enables us to
offer a new service to our existing audience and bring new viewers to the
channel. arvato's ability to deliver mobile services throughout Europe makes
them an ideal partner to help us realize our goal of making The History Channel
the definitive destination for history in all media."