Delays to IPTV roll-outs

Orange has not yet revealed a date for the launch of its UK IPTV service, making it increasingly unlikely that the company will meet its target of launching the service this year.

The company has repeatedly announced that 2007 would see the completion of its quadruple play of mobile, home phone, broadband, and pay TV.

So far, Orange has revealed just one content deal, with Disney, and has announced the animated characters which will act as the service’s mascots.

With just 34 days left in 2007, a launch this year is looking doubtful.

Cable TV operatore, Virgin Media, has also delayed its IPTV plans from 2008 until at least 2009.

The decision is believed to be related to a strategic review following the departure of Steve Burch, the company’s CEO.

New CEO, Neil Burkett, is focusing on Virgin’s core services, particularly high-speed broadband.