OMVC to be Absorbed into the NAB

The Open Mobile Video Coalition (OMVC), which has served as the principal proponent for mobile television since 2007, announced it will be integrated into the National Association of Broadcasters.

Effective Jan. 1, 2013, key functions currently coordinated by the OMVC executive director, including OMVC's technical groups, advocacy efforts and marketing activities, will be integrated into the NAB. "The purpose of the OMVC was to help develop a mobile TV standard, create an ecosystem for broadcasters, manufacturers and other interested parties and to encourage device development," said Anne P. Schelle, who has served as OMVC's executive director since shortly after it began. "We've done that, and with the recent launch of Dyle mobile TV, operated by a consortium of broadcasters known as the Mobile Content Venture, and similar activities by the Mobile500 Alliance, Mobile TV is available in more than 35 U.S. markets covering some 55% of the population," Schelle added. "Integration with the NAB is the logical next step as the commercialization of mobile TV enters its next exciting phase," Schelle added.