LOS ANGELES—NBC Universal and mobile entertainment company I-play are offering on-demand scenes from the NBC comedy series “The Office” on mobile platforms. The agreement with NBC’s Universal Mobile Entertainment makes one- and two-minute scenes from “The Office” available in North America later this year.
Costs for the service have not been set yet, although it may allow for a pay-per-download model or a monthly subscription. Any 3G-capable handset should be able to access the offering.
“Offering select video clips from popular television series like ‘The Office’ is one way that NBC Universal is looking to extend our audiences’ experience with the brand,” said Jeremy Laws, an executive with Universal Mobile Entertainment. “We look forward to working with I-play, who has been a key strategic partner for us as we address consumers’ growing appetite for mobile video content.”
The news follows last week’s announcement that the London-based publisher will team with Universal to offer clips of movies including “Animal House” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” to wireless users. I-play said it is looking to leverage its technology and carrier relationships to move beyond wireless games and market a diverse line of offerings customized for mobile use.
A wider portfolio of content could allow I-play to market bundled offerings either through carrier decks or through its direct-to-consumer Internet storefront, according to Chief Executive Officer David Gosen.
“This fits very closely with our philosophy on gaming,” Gosen said. “It’s also critical, I believe, in creating a point of differentiation. What it enables us to do is go to a carrier and say, ‘We’re launching a game; we’re also launching ringtones and wallpapers.’”
Christopher Lisotta, a reporter with TV Week, contributed to this report. TV Week is a sister publication of RCR Wireless News. Both publications are owned by Crain Communications Inc.
