Digital contents vending machine developed

SEOUL, Nov. 12 (Yonhap) -- A digital contents vending machine that allows users to easily download movies, TV dramas and music files onto their mobile phones and laptop computers has been developed, a state-run telecommunications laboratory said Wednesday.

The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) said the
"Contents Island" machine does away with the complication of registering and
paying charges associated with mobile service providers. It also does not require
people to pay wireless packet charges since the system is designed to be directly
plugged into computers, cellular phones and other portable multimedia players.
ETRI said the goal is to set up the machines in airports, train and subway
stations, expressway rest areas, convenience stores and coffee shops across the
country, with the first models likely to reach the market in about six months.
The system, whose development began in 2006, is expected to expand the overall
market of domestic digital audio-video materials and user-created contents,
currently controlled by a handful of mobile telecommunication companies.
"The vending machines should be beneficial to the contents industry as a whole
since it will provide a user-friendly and diversified outlet for people wanting
to see movies, hear music and scan pictures," said Kim Sun-ja, the chief
developer of the project.
She said that in addition to the local market, talks are underway with a contents
service company in Japan, with efforts underway to expand sales to other
countries.
"Most of the technology already existed, but five international and 15 domestic
patents have been requested and registered," the engineer said.
The machines are expected to cost around 4.5 million won (US$3,325) each, with
user fees likely to be cheaper than existing downloads.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
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