BT promotes New Media 2 project for IPTV services

October 12, 2007 – UK telco BT is promoting a new TV concept called New Media 2 (NM2), which allows users to give feedback on a drama series via the interactivity of an IPTV service and thus change the storyline based on the information given.

The idea is for programme producers to shoot multiple story developments, which are then loaded into the back-end system and made available to viewers, making the viewing experience more personal.

“The back-end system will be loaded up with multiple storylines and options, so it’s not a process whereby viewers react and the producers make something based on that,” said Richard Griffiths, Director of Technology Strategy and Development at BT Vision.  “We have developed the production tools that would sit alongside a video editing suite, but you have to shoot what you need before you do this.”

Mr Griffiths added that BT has conducted a number of NM2 trials with broadcasters, without divulging names.  BT reportedly has no firm plans to commercialise NM2 as part of BT’s own IPTV service BT Vision.  The executive added that all options are being considered to monetise the service, including pay-per-view, subscription and advertising-funded models.