Oplayo is first to show software video streaming over existing mobile networks

Oplayo, a Finnish streaming technology company whose backers include Nokia Ventures, today revealed the first ever example of hardware independent video-streaming through existing 2.5G GPRS mobile telephone networks. The demonstration featured the newly-launched video-enabled Nokia 7650 handset, receiving streamed video generated on Oplayo's own, mobile content streaming technology.

Philip Bourchier-O'Ferrall, vice president, EMEA, Oplayo said; 'We are extremely excited to be able to demonstrate a working video-streaming solution to a mobile, whilst our competitors are showing simulations or video cached in the mobile phone.

'Effectively, the use of Oplayo's technology means that content providers, network operators and mobile users don't have to wait for the launch of the 3G networks to enjoy streamed video.'

Oplayo offers a revolutionary approach to streaming, using a system that is currently already in use on the fixed internet properties at some of the world's leading companies including Pfizer, CNN, NBC and General Motors. Oplayo's patented technology is based on compression that optimises ultra-lightweight software decode.

Because Oplayo's technology is entirely 'in software' (with no extra hardware chips needing to be inserted into the user's mobile), multi-media content can be played on less expensive phones with less processing power, maintaining battery life considerably compared to hardware implementations.

Oplayo's MVQ technology also streams at better quality (higher frame rate per second or higher bandwidth) than other technologies in an identical environment. The technology is also ideal for the convergence of fixed internet and wireless devices, offering a light player for displaying the streaming video on PCs (which do not need a plug-in) and on mobile phones.

Jarkko Ollikainen, vice president of business development, Oplayo, says: 'We are confident that, once other 2.5G handsets such as the Nokia 7650 come with a Symbian operating system, Oplayo will become the solution of choice for streaming video and rich media content.'


About Oplayo (www.oplayo.com)
Oplayo develops leading edge streaming video and rich media technology for the fixed internet and wireless devices. Oplayo's technology gives end-users an easy-to-use, "instant play" rich-media experience. Founded in 1999, Oplayo's corporate headquarters are in Helsinki, Finland, with offices in London and Munich. Oplayo's investors include Nokia Venture Partners, Zouk Ventures, Eficor and TEKES, the National Technology Agency of Finland. Its clients include Pfizer, Nokia, CNN, NBC, Nissan, GM and Universal Pictures.