Telewest and Global Interactive Gaming (GIG) today announced a collaboration to provide the first interactive live action betting service on digital TV. It combines Telewest’s broadband network with GIG’s advanced, patent-protected interactive gaming system.

Telewest Active Digital sport viewers will be the first in the world to enjoy the live on-screen action and genuine real-time betting on their TV from the comfort of home.

The two companies will develop GIG’s new interactive gaming system, with a view to rolling out a pilot service to Telewest Active Digital customers in Autumn 2001, followed by a full launch in 2002. The service will be delivered via a picture-in-picture interface, within Telewest’s ‘walled garden’ of interactive services.

TV viewers will be able to place frequent small wagers on the outcome of individual events throughout a game. The revolutionary service is easy to use via on-screen menus with computer-generated odds designed to appeal to a wide audience.

David Hobday, commercial director, TV, Telewest said, ‘Broadband, with its ‘always-on’ return path is the only way to capitalise on the full potential of GIG’s system and deliver a truly differentiated experience to the customer.

‘Instantaneous response betting on live events, allows betting to become an integral part of live sporting events for customers, increasing their enjoyment and quite literally providing them with a stake in the game.’

Cees Zwaard, CEO of GIG Ltd added, ‘ For the digital broadcaster, our service can boost average revenues per unit, interactive betting is a compelling application for interactive digital TV services.

‘This agreement is also an important step towards achieving GIG’s stated ambition of becoming a world leading interactive in-run gaming company, on digital entertainment platforms.’

For further information please contact:

Mary O’Reilly,
Telewest Tel: 0207 299 5115
Email: mary_o’reilly@flextech.co.uk