IPTV subscriptions to grow 92% year on year

According to a new report from market research analyst iSuppli Corp, the number of global subscribers for IPTV will rise at a compound annual growth rate of 92.5 percent from 3.9 million in 2006 to 103 million in 2011.

IPTV subscription revenue is expected to grow from $960.5 million in 2006 to $39.1 billion in 2011.

IPTV brings together voice, Internet and entertainment services in a bundle known as triple-play.

Triple-play services cross industry sectors and there is fierce competition between market participants, which is helping to drive growth in the IPTV market.

In North America cable companies are expanding their services into data and voice communications - crossing over into territory previously occupied by telecoms operators.

In response, telecom companies such as Verizon and AT&T are providing IPTV services using their advanced broadband networks.

Satellite companies are also moving to strengthen their competitive position. Companies such as DirecTV and Echostar are placing an emphasis on high-definition (HD) programming and offering unique content, such as sports packages, to differentiate their service from those offered by cable companies and telecoms operators.