Orange is the first mobile operator to offer BBC footage, giving users of Orange World access to classic scenes from BBC programmes and famous catchphrases as ringtones. Images of characters from the shows can also be used as wallpapers for phones.
The move comes just weeks after pilot schemes showed that there would be strong demand for mobile television. One, conducted by O2, showed that 76% of people involved in the trial would like to take up the service, while research by BT showed that consumers would be happy to pay around £8 a month for mobile television.
Industry insiders see the deal between Orange and BBC as another move towards widespread acceptance of mobile TV -- seen as a vital source of revenue for mobile phone companies, as revenues fall from traditional phone calls.
Mark Hird, director of multimedia operations for Orange, said: "Delivering great broadcast content on mobiles is central to our plans for 2006 and beyond, and there's nobody bigger and better than BBC Worldwide as a partner to get our customers excited."
Other programmes that are part of the first wave, which are available starting today, are 'Goodness Gracious Me', 'Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps' and 'The League of Gentlemen'. Clips, lasting for around two minutes, will cost £1 and ringtones will be available for £3.50.
Jason Blain, director of business development at BBC Worldwide, said: "For the first time, we're giving mobile customers the chance to watch their favourite shows on their phone.
"More and more, BBC Worldwide is looking to move toward non-traditional broadcasting vehicles, and this partnership with Orange is a testimony to that."
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