MediaCorp pulls plug on Teletext
Singapore broadcaster MediaCorp is to pull the plug on long-running television information service Teletext.
The service, which launched in 1983, will cease operations on 30 September.
The broadcaster said that since the same information is available online, on mobile devices and on digital outdoor media, the use of Teletext has declined.
Philip Koh, MD of MediaCorp’s Convergent Media said: “Given the antiquated technology, the availability of alternative sites for information and the declining usage of Teletext, we have decided to discontinue the service and channel resources to newer services to better serve our customers and reach a wider audience.”
MediaCorp has released a list of sources where information available on Teletext can be reached, which includes changiairport.com for airport information, nea.gov.sg for the weather, xin.msn.com for entertainment and channelnewsasia.com for news.
I find teletext is very convenient, esp housewives and elderly people who do not know how to go online and other mobile resources.
Furthermore, we wouldn’t purposely on the pc or mobile phone in the middle of nights to check program.
My family members, colleague and friends have used to check program fro TV teletext for the past 30 years.
Hope MeidaCorp will continue to serve us with teletext.
regards
ReplyI dont use teletext often as i am internet savvy. but my seniors at home are so used to teletext and on top, they are not technologically savvy.
How can we help them to be updated and enrich their life if this free service is removed.
Please consider not pulling out this service.
regards,
ReplyMy mum was shocked today (30-Sep 2013) when she could not use the Teletext to update herself on the winning numbers of Toto and 4-D. She has been using Teletext daily to gather information.
The older generations, like my mum, have relied on the use of Teletext throughout the years to gain access to information that is important to them.
Perhaps, Singapore Pools can help Medicorp to sponsor for the revivial of Teletext.
Regards,
ReplyTeletext is the most convenient platform for a tv viewer to get information from. Especially when one is watching tv. The era of internet tv has not fully hit the whole of sg. Therefore, it would be wise for mediacorp to put it back on. But looks like there isn’t any chance left for being this wise.
ReplyFrankly, there are many other newer alternatives. One example is the interactive TV on StarHub Channel 899, which displays lottery results, finance, weather and news. One can even purchase movie tickets via the interactive TV! In short, it has everything that Teletext had. Works just as well, if not faster.
Upgrade the older folks to the iPads and tablets of the world, and I’m sure that they will forget about Teletext in no time. Yes, new technology is that addictive. My mother is one example. All you gotta do is download some apps and they’re hooked.
ReplyHave your say