KT unveils Web-based IPTV

KT Mediahub President Kim Joo-sung poses with models during a launch event of its new “Olleh TV” service at the firm’s headquarters in downtown Seoul, Monday. / Courtesy of KT

By Kim Yoo-chul

KT said Monday that it has launched a Web-enabled TV service for the first time to overtake rivals in the race toward a next-generation platform for TVs.

It added that the new TV service dubbed “Olleh TV Smart” is supported by HTML5-based device system.

Under the HTML5 system that operates software via Web not applications, KT can provide a TV service that supports both Google android and the iOS platform, which will enable customers to enjoy a variety of content.

HTML5 is a markup language for structuring and presenting content for the Web and a core technology of the Internet. HTML5 enables many new features for more dynamic Web applications and interfaces.

“As KT has been consistent in generating new eco-systems in platforms to better meet today’s convergence trend, we will try hard to release services that are featured with a greater compatibility and accessibility to offer creative value to customers,” said Kim Joo-sung, president of KT Mediahub, a content affiliate of KT, in a news conference at its main office in downtown Seoul, Monday.

“So far, we have been experiencing difficulties to add up new features and services in our Web-connected TVs as it’s required to develop separate applications that back Android and iOS, respectively. But you have no problems using Google and iOS services via our HTML5-backed services,” said the president.

“TVs are getting smarter because the HTML5 system has greater openness,” the executive said.

The company’s “Mash-Up” service can share information on a TV screen while one is watching the TV.

KT said that more content related to sports and leisure industries will be added to cut its heavy reliance on Google Android software.

During the conference, KT also introduced its various educational programs supporting the HTML5 system.

The executive said it will financially help local content developers produce more customized solutions and content that will power the system.

KT plans to invest 100 billion won this year to ensure “shared growth” with its partners.