BET launches wireless venture

WASHINGTON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- BET said Wednesday it is launching a wireless venture with Motricity.

African-American oriented cable network BET announced it is expanding into wireless data and applications in conjunction with its mobile solutions provider, Motricity, a Durham, N.C.-based company. The new BET wireless service will be marketed under the "BET Mobile" brand and will include popular ringtones, graphics, games, alerts and social networking features.

"BET viewers are sophisticated and heavy users of the latest mobile devices, services and content. For us to extend our programming and presence into the wireless market is the perfect next-stage evolution for the BET brand," said Debra Lee, BET president and CEO. "BET made history in 1980 as the first television network of its kind. Now we are ready to make mobile phone history in partnership with Motricity for content specially geared toward our audience."

BET is also online at BET.com.