Interactive TV

Satellite TV provider EchoStar Communications and software maker OpenTV have formed a partnership they say will lead to the first wide-scale deployment of interactive television in the U.S.

EchoStar, the nation’s third-largest satellite TV provider, said the service will be available for free for its 1.6 million subscribers starting next summer. To receive the service, subscribers will have to have specially designed set-top boxes and remote controls.

As part of the deal, EchoStar will make software it purchased from Mountain View, Calif.-based OpenTV available to broadcasters who use its service. Broadcasters, in turn, can use the software to design interactive services for their programs.

EchoStar plans to use the software to develop an electronic program guide, specialized weather forecasts and such services as home banking. For example, viewers might see sports statistics during a football game and be asked if they want to purchase a football jersey, said Mark Jackson, senior vice president of satellite services for EchoStar.

While OpenTV’s software allows for Internet and e-mail access through EchoStar’s set-top boxes, the satellite operator says it will not provide these services in its initial launch.