Mobile digital TV firm Siano Mobile Silicon has signed an agreement with CMB Satellite, the Hong Kong based affiliate of EchoStar Communications Corporation (DISH), and Huaqi, manufacturer of the Aigo consumer multimedia products in China, to provide solutions for China's mobile TV service known as CMMB.

CMMB is the technology developed in China and selected by China's State Administration for Radio, Film and Television as the main platform for delivering TV services to mobile devices. The CMMB network will use both satellite and terrestrial signals to obtain effective coverage both in densely populated cities, including indoor reception, as well as in sparsely populated rural areas. The commercial launch of mobile TV in China is anticipated to coincide with the Beijing Olympic Games.

CMB Satellite, a Hong Kong-based affiliate of EchoStar, is the primary provider of S-band satellite capacity for China's CMMB mobile video system. Huaqi is one of the largest suppliers of MP3/MP4 handheld devices in China.

"As the global mobile TV market ramps up, all eyes are set on China as the economic powerhouse of tomorrow," said Siano's CEO Alon Ironi. "The 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing represent a major catalyst in terms of consumer adoption of MDTV in China. Through our collaboration with CMB Satellite and Huaqi, Siano is firmly committed to expanding its technology leadership into China and becoming the leading supplier of CMMB silicon."