SingTel to launch IPTV trial

Singapore Telecommunications (SingTel) plans to launch a trial of internet protocol television (IPTV) initially covering 1,000 homes in the country. The operator hopes the six-month trial will shake up the local TV sector, putting it directly in competition with cable TV operator StarHub, which has enjoyed an eleven-year monopoly in the market. The cableco has reacted calmly to the development with its head of corporate communications and investor relations, Ms Jeannie Ong, saying it welcomed any competition which might ‘bring fresh content and a variety of new channels to the market.’ SingTel has been awarded a trial licence for the service by media content regulator Media Development Authority (MDA). Its IPTV pilot will begin later this month with a commercial launch to follow.