Discovery Communications expands mobile content efforts

Nonfiction media giant Discovery Communications announced the launch of multiple new mobile content services and distribution partnerships spotlighting entertainment brands including Discovery Channel, TLC and Animal Planet. Discovery Channel and Animal Planet content is now available via Rhythm NewMedia's vSNAX Videos, an entertainment app developed for the Apple iPhone and iPod touch--vSNAX channels will feature a selection of video ad-supported clips from series including Deadliest Catch, MythBusters and Animal Face-Offs as well as community features like video sharing and ratings.

Another mobile video agreement, this one with video solutions provider Transpera, will focus on ad-supported network programming and more genre-focused content like survival, lifestyle, green and health, including clips from the series Dirty Jobs, LA Ink and Meerkat Manor. Discovery also will debut themes wallpapers through a partnership with wireless community and media services provider FunMobility and introduce realtones, ringbacks and related branded content through a new distribution deal with mobile entertainment firm Zed.

Another separate partnership with mobile marketing and technology company 3Cinteractive promises to create live interactivity with Discovery's television programming, online and mobile websites. 3Ci's Switchblade mobile platform will enable viewers to interact with programming, express their opinions and check TV schedules on their mobile devices. "We saw tremendous growth last year across our mobile services with triple-digit percentage increases in usage confirming consumers growing interest in Discovery content on mobile," said Discovery Communications' senior vice president of programming Doug Craig in a prepared statement.

For more on Discovery's expanded mobile slate:
- read this release

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