BT Vision adds Sony BMG content

Broadband video-on-demand service set for autumn launch

BT has inked a deal with Sony BMG to add new music video content to its forthcoming BT Vision broadband TV service. 

Due to launch in autumn 2006, BT Vision is a subscription-free service that charges users on a pay-per-view basis.

BT Vision uses a Freeview set-top box that connects to a digital aerial for free TV channels, and connects to a broadband line for video-on-demand services.

The Sony BMG roster of artists includes Foo Fighters, Jamiroquai, Justin Timberlake, Beyoncé and Christina Aguilera, as well as veteran acts like George Michael and Bob Dylan.

BT Vision already has music video deals with Warner Music, i-concerts and Eagle Rock, among others.

Dan Marks, chief executive at BT Television Services, said: "This is an important deal for BT Vision and allows us to offer a broad range of music videos many of which will be exclusive to BT Vision for a period of time from their release."

The deal also means that, from this November, Sony BMG videos will be available through the BT Vision Download Store, a new service offering film, TV and music downloads to PCs and Microsoft-compatible portable devices.