Nokia is to launch a new mobile TV channel in the UK specifically for its new flagship N96 smartphone, launched earlier this month. According to The Inquirer, users of the new handset will be able to access a service called ‘Capsule N96’ from October 1, which allows users to download ‘mobisodes’ of exclusive entertainment and lifestyle programming for free. The mobisodes will last 96 seconds and will cover a variety of subject areas, including motoring, fashion, comedy and technology. According to the report, Capsule N96 will initially run until the end of November, at which point Nokia will review the service. The report adds that, although optimised for the N96, the service is accessible via any Nokia phone capable of supporting the content. 

Earlier this month, Nokia struck a deal with the BBC to offer the UK state broadcaster’s ‘iPlayer’ application on the N96, the first time iPlayer will be made available via mobile. The service, which is also scheduled to launch on October 1, will allow N96 users to download BBC television programmes for up to seven days after broadcast.