Comedy Central links
with Microsoft TV
Cable network Comedy Central has joined Microsoft TV’s Content Builder Initiative. The software company lends selected participants in the project Motorola DCT5000 digital TV set-tops, which those participants use to develop interactive content for Microsoft TV’s digital television platform. Other Content Builder Initiative members include Steeplechase Media, Screamingly Different Entertainment, Pushybroad and Mixed Signals.
Swedes buy tickets
via t-commerce
Swedish interactive television channel eTV has launched a first-of-its-kind t-commerce program, the company announced. The program allows viewers to purchase tickets to events by clicking on their remote controls while watching live previews of the events. The channel has broadcast its digital interactive menu of shows since last year. Later this year, eTV’s interactive programs will be broadcast on Canal Digital’s satellite interactive platform.
California homes
wired for digital
Schuler Homes of Hawaii is building a housing development in Northern California that will link homes with a high-speed fiber-optic cable. The telecom infrastructure, which is being built by a consortium of companies including Competisys Corp. and SmartAMERICA, will provide both Internet access and digital TV to the member homes in City of American Canyon, the consortium developing the broadband network announced.
Wink gets the nod
for NBC programs
Wink Communications will provide interactive enhancements for several NBC programs, including “Saturday Night Live” and numerous sports broadcasts. Wink has provided enhancements for “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno” since 1998.