TV Guide Reaches Mobile Deal with Helio

TV Guide Mobile on Helio to Include Enhanced Listings Grid, Program Reminders, Daily Recommendations

By Glen Dickson -- Broadcasting & Cable, 11/21/2007 4:11:00 PM

TV Guide Mobile reached an agreement with mobile service Helio to provide TV guidance, editorial commentary and entertainment news directly to its members’ wireless devices.

The deal with Helio -- a joint venture of SK Telecom and EarthLink that provides voice and data services over a national third-generation network -- will allow its members to receive TV Guide content via a downloadable application that delivers content directly to the mobile device.

Key features of the TV Guide service for Helio include a personalized, enhanced listings grid with a TV-like interface and 14 days of advance local listings; program reminders delivered as SMS text messages; daily recommendations from TV Guide experts; and search functionality via keyword, title, time and channel.

“We are pleased with this partnership, as Helio is not only a leader in the latest wireless applications, but they’ve built a brand experience expressly for the passionate consumer who craves connectivity,” said Bob Shallow, vice president and general manager of TV Guide Mobile, in a statement. “Fans of television shows tend to be extremely engaged and want interaction with related content regularly and conveniently, and Helio members can now stay plugged-in by accessing TV Guide’s guidance tools and content on their mobile devices.”

TV Guide Mobile on Helio is $2.99 for a 30-day rental for all members. For Helio “à la Carte” members, additional data fees apply.