Telstra launches BigPond TV

Telstra announced the launch of BigPond TV, a mobile television service available via the Australian operator's Next G network. Comprising primetime hits, made-for-mobile programs, sports and music videos, the service launches with on-demand access to more than two dozen series, including "South Park," "The Shield" and "SpongeBob SquarePants." BigPond TV also features the original productions "Big 5" and "Girl Friday," a behind-the-scenes series spotlighting the band Silverchair and Supercars shows and videos. 

Through Telstra's relationship with Sony Pictures Television International, BigPond TV will debut new dramatic series including "Damages" and "Kidnapped" the day after each episode premieres in primetime. "The great thing about our full-length programs is that they will be 'chaptered,' as consumers are familiar with on DVDs," said Justin Milne, BigPond Group managing director. "So if you just want to relive the finale of a 'Rescue Me' episode, it will be as close as your Next G mobile." Sony also will contribute "minisodes," five-minute edits of vintage favorites like "Charlie's Angels" and "Starsky & Hutch."

Per the BigPondTV pay-per-view pricing model, subscribers will fork over 50 cents for 24-hour access to short clips, with full-length episodes priced at $4.95 for seven-day access. Telstra also will offer monthly subscription packages of 25 clips or four full-length episodes for $9.95 or 55 clips at $19.95.

For more on BigPond TV:
- read this release

Related Articles:
Telstra confirms plans to terminate i-mode
Microsoft, Telstra to demo DVB-H in Australia