NBC Universal (NBCU) are finally set to deliver on their promise of new channels, with general entertainment Universal Channel, Sci-Fi and 13th Street slated for roll-out in the second quarter of 2008. The hold-up thus far is believed to have stemmed from the internal tussle for content between the proposed channels and NBCU’s (estimated US$8billion) syndication business. Indeed it will be interesting to see the new channels’ programming line-up given that many of NBCU’s most … [Read more...] about The start-up upstarts
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High hopes for Hindi GE
Back in the late 1980’s, Sunday mornings used the see the streets of India seem strangely deserted. It was an era, in which audiences across all age-groups, would be at home practically glued to their TV screens watching a weekly show based on the great Indian epic Ramayan. The series’ home channel, state-run Doordarshan, used to reign supreme in the absence of any competition from DTH satellite TV. Fast forward to 2008 and Ramayan is back on air. But a lot has changed in the last … [Read more...] about High hopes for Hindi GE
Philippines ratings row rages
With TV ratings key to winning advertising revenue, no wonder that TV networks in the Philippines are both highly competitive – and extremely sensitive – about the topic of audience measurement. And when those all-important figures might prove to have been manipulated, be sure the ‘injured’ party will doggedly pursue the matter to protect its share of the ad pie. Such is the situation in Manila where ABS-CBN has filed a P63million (US$1.5million) civil lawsuit against … [Read more...] about Philippines ratings row rages
Viewers tune-in to new music
There are undoubtedly many TV viewers to whom names like Snow Patrol, The Fray and Jason Mraz might not ring any immediate bells. But their music might be far more recognizable to many as ‘that song from Grey’s Anatomy’ or ‘the Ugly Betty video’. Proving popular with viewers, and that most sought after of demographics the YouTube and i-Tunes generation, these hits are part of very specific music strategies on the part of the TV networks. “The on-air promotions … [Read more...] about Viewers tune-in to new music
Strategic alliances abound in India
2008 has seen newly-signed strategic alliances between NBC Universal, Inc. (NBCU) and New Delhi Television Ltd (NDTV), and between Turner International and Alva Brothers. These follow similar deals over the last couple of years joining Walt Disney Television International with United Home Entertainment Ltd / UTV Software Communications; Sony Entertainment Television (SET) with Sri Adhikari Brothers Television Network; and Star Group with Balaji Telefilms Ltd. Majority of the deals have a similar … [Read more...] about Strategic alliances abound in India
MediaCorp to launch Vasantham and Central channels
Singapore – MediaCorp will launch dedicated TV channels, Vasantham in Indian languages and Central for children, making MediaCorp TV’s free-to-air offerings one of the largest in Asia. The new channels are being expanded from the current Vasantham Central and Kids Central segments on MediaCorp’s Arts Central channel. Targeting to serve the growing Indian community in Singapore, Vasantham, is slated to debut Q4, 2008 to provide family-focused entertainment including locally … [Read more...] about MediaCorp to launch Vasantham and Central channels