Mediaset, Rai to launch Italian freesat JV

Italian broadcaster Mediaset is to launch Tivu, its free-to-air satellite platform joint venture with public broadcaster Rai, in June.

Mediaset and Rai will each hold 48% in the new venture, which is aimed at driving the Italian analogue switchover, with Telecom Italia Media hold the remaining 4%.

While the venture is expected to use Eutelsat’s Hot Bird satellite – widely used by Italian DTH broadcasters, including News Corporation’s pay TV offering Sky Italia – DTT is also a part of the proposition.

Unveiling the service today, Mediaset chairman Fedele Confalonieri said the joint venture would boost competition with Sky Italia.