Andinatel eyes 2009 launch of IPTV

April 4, 2008 – Ecuadorian telco Andinatel anticipates launching IPTV services in 2009, according to company President César Regalado.

Speaking to BNAmericas, the executive said that Andinatel expects to launch commercial trials in coming months in order to test the service.  IPTV services will initially be available in the national capital of Quito and gradually expand to other areas.  The telco provides services in 13 provinces in north-central Ecuador.

Sr. Regalado also revealed that Andinatel will invest a total of US$ 227mn this year, of which US$ 58mn will go towards fixed telephony, US$ 26.5mn will go to the broadband and data segment, and the remainder will be used for connectivity and social programs.

Andinatel ended last year with around 17,200 customers for its Internet services, and aims to increase this markedly this year to hit 100,000 by year-end, the executive added.