Discovery
Rovi Adds Korean Cell Carrier to Patent Client List (MESA)
Story Highlights
Rovi Corp. has added yet another tech company to its patent client list, with South Korean cellular carrier LG Uplus Corp. (LG U+) signing an agreement to access Rovi’s entertainment discovery patent portfolio. LG U+ is owned by LG Group, South Korea’s fourth-largest business and the parent company of LG Electronics. The cellular company offers live TV programs and VOD services via high-speed Internet and wireless networks throughout South Korea. Its mobile IPTV service offers two-way services, terrestrial and HD broadcasting, along with more than 130,000 VOD episodes on the back of its Internet broadcasting services…
“Our licensing agreement with LG U+ is a testament to the value of Rovi’s intellectual property and the entertainment discovery patent portfolio’s significance for service providers around the world,” said Samir Armaly, EVP of intellectual property and licensing for Rovi. “We are looking forward to working with LG U+ and helping to provide new and innovative ways for viewers to search and find their favorite programming in the Korean market.”
Rovi has been enjoying several wins on the licensing front of late, renewing its IP license agreements with AT&T and Sony, signing a long-term IP license renewal with European pay TV provider Sky, and signing a multi-year IP license renewal with Charter last year. Both Comcast and DISH are expected to renew their licensing agreements with Rovi this year.
In the fourth quarter, Rovi saw its IP licensing revenues jump to nearly $90 million, up from $72 million a year ago.
