Solaris Mobile and Class Editori Sign Agreement to Launch Digital Radio Service in Italy

12 July 2011

Solaris Mobile Ltd., the Dublin based pioneer of European next generation mobile communications networks, a joint venture company formed by SES Astra and Eutelsat Communications, and Class Editori, a leading Italian media publishing group, have reached an agreement to launch, an initial phase package, of radio services to listeners across Italy.

The initial phase of the roll-out will commence in October 2011 with the deployment of a hybrid satellite and terrestrial network in Milan. Solaris Mobile is partnering with major Italian network operators for the provision of the terrestrial transmission network. Following the successful implementation of the initial phase, it is envisaged that a full commercial launch may take place in 2012 where Solaris Mobile plans to extend the hybrid network across the whole of Italy.

Italy enjoys the largest number of radio channels within the EU and through this agreement, Italians will be able to access dozens of new digital radio channels broadcasting music, news, entertainment and sports, in their original format with continuity of reception across the entire country. The high quality digital audio signal will also be complemented with new visual elements, delivering sophisticated media services such as programme information and traffic related data. Class Editori will provide high quality content to radio listeners through the Solaris Mobile radio network.

Solaris Mobile was recently granted an 18 year licence to operate Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) in Italy enabling it to deploy its hybrid satellite and terrestrial transmission network for the delivery of entertainment and information services to people on the move, in cars and to personal handsets. This licence brings to eleven the total number of national licenses awarded to Solaris Mobile across Europe, which also include France, Sweden, Germany, Finland, Luxembourg, Slovenia, Denmark, The Netherlands, Poland and the United Kingdom.

Steve Maine, CEO, Solaris Mobile Ltd. commented, “The agreement with Class Editori is a historic occasion not just for Italian radio audiences but for radio listeners throughout Europe as it signals an innovative step forward in the migration from analogue to digital radio. This contract is our first and marks the debut of the delivery of services using our network infrastructure within the EU. Our hybrid satellite and terrestrial network provides a cost effective and rapidly deployable platform for digital radio broadcasters offering more channels for local, national and regional coverage.”

Luca Panerai, Vice Chairman, Class Editori commented, “In recent years, Class Editori has been involved in developing a pay-radio business model, which is evident by past agreements with a major automobile manufacturer and other important players interested in the development of the sector. Finally, we now have the opportunity to begin working with a serious and motivated partner who shares our vision of building this business on a large scale. Partnering with Solaris Mobile, the initial phase, commencing in October is the first step in realising our vision of delivering the most advanced rich media infotainment and radio services to Italian listeners.”