Virgin Media Player beta launch announced

Virgin Media today confirmed the beta launch of its first online and mobile TV player: Virgin Media Player.

Virgin Media has confirmed hundreds of hours of content for the beta trial including ITV, LIVING, Disney, Cartoon Network, National Geographic and, following a new agreement with MTV Networks UK & Ireland, a raft of MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon shows.

MTV Networks’ channels offer programmes such as South Park, Jersey Shore, Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob Squarepants and The Hills.

Cindy Rose, executive director of digital entertainment at Virgin Media said: “MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon already offer some hugely popular shows on our TV on demand platform so we’re delighted to be expanding our line-up across all three screens.

“We continue to explore innovative new ways to bring our customers’ favourite content to them and, with Virgin Media Player, we’re making sure they’re spoilt for choice.”

David Lynn, Executive Vice President and Managing Director, MTV Networks UK & Ireland, said: “Our viewers love staying in touch, up to date and entertained and we’re looking forward to bringing them our award winning content across all three of Virgin Media’s screens.

“By taking our content online and onto mobile, we’ll reach an even wider audience and open up new advertising opportunities.”

Throughout the beta trial, Virgin Media’s XL TV customers who also have a broadband connection with the company will be able to take a first look at the beta Virgin Media Player by registering at www.virginmedia.com/player.

Registered Virgin mobile pay monthly customers will be able to enjoy an hour of Virgin Media Player on mobile content every day at no extra charge. Mobile versions of popular shows will be available to any mobile phone owner via the Virgin Media mobile portal.

Virgin Media Player on mobile will launch with 4oD content which will be joined by MTV Snax, a made for mobile channel, with bite-sized chunks and favourite shows including Cribs, The Hills and Nitro Circus, alongside made-for-mobile channels from Nickelodeon and Comedy Central.

Virgin Media will bring more content to Virgin Media Player as the company builds towards full launch later this year.

Virgin Media recently launched its online music video on demand service and Virgin Media Online Movies.