Europe : Orange announced that it has awarded PacketVideo Network Solutions the global contract to deliver video streaming software for mobile video and audio services across the Orange footprint.

The deal follows a three-year period during which PacketVideo Network Solutions and Orange worked together to develop new mobile video and audio services for Orange customers.

The two companies are currently working with content companies, handset manufacturers and application developers to deliver the best mobile media experience to Orange customers. As a scalable solution, the move will see a seamless transition for Orange customers migrating from the 2.5G to the 3G network.

PacketVideo Network Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Alcatel, will provide Orange its pvServer(TM) and pvAuthor(TM) solutions to provide a superior streaming experience.

Orange will use these mobile media solutions to roll out new commercial video and audio services over GPRS, starting in the U.K. and France early next year.

Ian Germer, Director of Communication Services for Orange Global Brand Marketing and Products, said: "By partnering with some of the most innovative companies, Orange is delivering a superior experience to its customers. Here, by working with PacketVideo Network Solutions, we will be able to offer our European customers high-quality, fast video clips on their Orange phone, either on current or next generation networks.

He added: "We understand that interoperability is fundamental to consumer adoption and business success and believe that the widespread adoption of the 3GPP open standard is the best way."

Mike Barlow, CEO of PacketVideo Network Solutions, said: "The 3GPP open standard enables all members of the mobile video value chain -- networks, handset manufacturers, content owners and application developers -- to profitably work together as they provide exciting new services for mobile.

He added: "Our commitment to 3GPP open standards, along with the unique advantages we can bring to the end-user experience, make PacketVideo Network Solutions the ideal mobile media partner for Orange."