The European mobile TV market has experienced momentum today. First up, Dutch operator KPN has launched nationwide services based on DVB-H technology and kit from Nokia and Nokia Siemens Networks. Ten television channels are available, with more expected. The move follows efforts earlier this year by the European Commission to encourage operators to make DVB-H their technology of choice when launching mobile TV services.

Meanwhile, Dow Jones Newswires reports that the Czech Republic’s three leading mobile operators – Telefonica O2, Vodafone and T-Mobile – plan to launch DVB-H mobile TV services through a joint-venture company. In other European news, TelecomPaper reports that a consortium of Norwegian broadcasters has chosen the DMB standard to develop mobile TV services. Nine channels from regional commercial groups MTG and TV2 and public broadcaster NRK will participate in the trial of free broadcasting this winter. DMB is more widely used in Korea. South Africa is also joining the sector; according to TeleGeography, the country plans to award DVB-H licenses early next year. Pay-TV operator Multichoice has confirmed that it is interested in acquiring a DVB-H permit, while the country’s largest mobile operator in terms of subscribers, Vodacom, is reportedly considering involvement.