MTV Networks, BET and
Verizon have announced that MTVN and BET will provide content for Verizon's new television service called FiOS TV. Through the agreement, FiOS will carry all MTV Networks and BET program services, including the MTV Networks recently launched services LOGO, MTV Desi, and several other program services in the MTV World group, as well as its recently announced high-definition channel, MHD. MTVN and BET programming will be available to all FiOS TV subscribers.
Under the agreement, Verizon will deliver MTV Networks' video-on-demand content as part of the FiOS Free-on-Demand VOD platform. The FiOS TV service will also offer music on MTV Networks' digital audio radio channels. Verizon will also provide its broadband subscribers with access to content from the MTV and Nickelodeon brands, including MTV.com's MTV Overdrive and Nick.com's TurboNick.
"MTV Networks and BET are dedicated to bringing our consumers the content they're passionate about on new platforms as they emerge in the marketplace. As Verizon continues to develop new platforms where consumers can experience entertainment, we are thrilled to provide them with our strong brands and services," said Nicole Browning, president affiliate sales and marketing.
Terry Denson, vice president of programming and marketing for Verizon FiOS TV, said, "MTV Networks' extensive portfolio of video, audio and broadband services will appeal to a diverse audience and enhance the Verizon FiOS TV customer experience."
The MTV Networks and BET linear channels that Verizon will include are: BET, BET Jazz, BET Gospel, CMT, Comedy Central, LOGO, MTV, MTV2, MTV Hits, MTV Jams, MTV Español, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Nick2, Nicktoons, GAS Noggin/The N, Spike TV, TV Land, VH1, VH1 Classic, VH1 Country, VH1 Soul and VH Uno. Finally, Verizon will also distribute MTV's channels specifically designed to super-serve ethnic populations in the U.S. including: MTV Chi, MTV Desi, and MTV K.
Verizon FiOS TV, which launched Sept. 22 in Keller, Texas, delivers hundreds of digital video and music channels, high-definition programming, video on demand content, interactive programming and an interactive programming guide as well as other customer-friendly features via the company's fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) broadband network. Verizon is already constructing FTTP networks in parts of 15 states, more than half of the states where it offers landline communication services.
MTV Networks' agreement with Verizon was signed prior to the launch of FiOS TV. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.