Advanced Television

California-based aerospace company Astra plans to launch 13,620 satellites as part of its broadband constellation plan, according to its application to the Federal Communications Commission on November 4. Up until now, the company has focused on building and launching rockets. Its plan for its Astra Constellation has a goal of “providing global secure, high-bandwidth connectivity to enable communications services, environmental and natural resource applications, and national security missions.” Astra wants FCC permission to launch in three phases.

Tablet Television, America’s first broadcast TV service for tablets, has revealed plans for its first beta market test in San Francisco and start of commercial operations in autumn 2014.

Utilizing existing ATSC distribution, viewers in the US will be able to receive direct, free over-the-air television transmissions to their portable devices. This first broadcast TV service for tablets will enable viewers to watch and record live broadcast content in HD in every market in the US and, in association with local broadcasting partners, will be able to provide on-demand packages. Additional features such as fully-integrated social television will be available to Internet connected viewers.