Telecom network operator Airtel Nigeria and Ericsson will launch NuVu, subscription video-on-demand content service, in the first quarter of 2016 to more than 30 million Airtel subscribers in Nigeria.
This is the first subscription video-on-demand content service from Ericsson to be marketed in association with telecom service providers.
NuVu subscribers can access around 3,000 local and international TV and film titles for a monthly fee on their smartphones or tablets without data cost during off-peak network hours, and access the content offline for up to 30 days after downloading.
NuVu’s content offering will include Hollywood and Nollywood movies, TV series, kids, music, gospel and education. Ericsson is working with a number of leading international distributors to acquire TV and film content for the new service.
NuVu platform leverages the company’s over-the-top capabilities and will be fully integrated into the operator’s customer relationship management and payment systems.
The ability to distribute content to consumers during off-peak periods minimizes data costs for both operator and consumer.
Airtel Nigeria will launch the video on demand service initially as an Android app for smartphones. Ericsson will roll out the service on other platforms and operating systems.
“Africa has some of the highest mobile adoption rates globally. However, downloading is currently preferred to streaming due to connectivity issues,” said Thorsten Sauer, head of Broadcast and Media Services, Ericsson.
“One of the key advantages of NuVu is that customers will have the flexibility to enjoy a variety of entertaining content, including music videos, comedy, movie trailers, cartoons, sports among others on their mobile devices anytime, anywhere they desire,” said Ahmed Mokhles, chief commercial officer, Airtel Nigeria.
