BSNL IPTV in Karnataka in August

According to reports, BSNL is all set to launch Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) in Karnataka in August this year.

What is Internet Protocol Television? A system where a digital television service is delivered by using Internet Protocol over a network infrastructure, which may include delivery by a broadband connection.

Simply put, viewers can ask for a particular channel, program, or movie at a particular time. Also, they can pause an ongoing program in the middle in case of work, and get back at any convenient time.

According to T S Kuppuswamy, chief general manager of Karnataka Telecom, with the broadband facility, Bangalore customers will be able to get voice, data, and video.

BSNL's IPTV service will also be reportedly used for e-education. Features such as slide shows, video lectures, and other modes will be used to impart education through the Internet.

To enjoy the service, customers will have to purchase a set top box known as WICE (Window for Infotainment, Communication and Entertainment), and have it installed for a certain fee along with security deposit.

Meanwhile, Karnataka will not be the first city in the country to get BSNL IPTV. Pune already has the service, where a set top box is typically available for Rs 3,950, or can be rented for a fixed monthly charge of Rs 100, along with a security deposit of Rs 1,500.

BSNL's IPTV service will be supported by CSIR, under triple-play broadband technology, which is at par with what is available worldwide. The franchisee for broadband here is India Online.