Major US broadcasting companies have launched a joint venture in order to deliver mobile TV over existing broadcast spectrum. 12 US broadcasters have joined forces in this matter.

"This initiative offers a path for the next generation of video consumption, and will help the FCC in its goal of ensuring efficient and reliable broadband service for US consumers," said John Wallace, President, NBC Local Media.

The 12 boardcasting companies include Fox, NBC and ION, Belo, Cox. E.W. Scripps, Gannett, Hearst, Media General, Meredith, Post Newsweek and Raycom. The companies have launched a joint venture to deliver live broadcasting and on-demand video to mobile devices, including news, sports and entertainment shows.

"Local broadcasters are the backbone of the U.S. media industry," said David J. Barrett, President and CEO of Hearst Television Inc. "This sharing of content, broadcast spectrum, marketing resources and capital is unprecedented, and underscores U.S. broadcasters' commitment to bringing vital local news, weather, and emergency information to increasingly mobile U.S. consumers. This is a critically important initiative that holds great promise for our audiences and the television industry. This is truly the next generation of local television service."

According to a recent issued press release, the group says it has a potential market of 150 million people in the US. The service will use the ATSC-M/H standard for mobile TV. The service remains yet unnamed, however.