Mobile phone operator Orange is weighing up a possible bid for Project Kangaroo, a failed broadband television initiative from the BBC, ITV and Channel 4.
Orange is considering moving into the broadband television market, via a failed venture from the UK's major terrestrial broadcasters.
Project Kangaroo was a "catch-up television" system set up by the BBC, ITV and Channel 4. However, the Competition Commission blocked any progress on the project, suggesting that it would have a serious impact on competition in the video on-demand market.
But millions of pounds had been invested in the technology behind the system, which could now be bought up at a vastly reduced price. Orange has therefore thrown its hat into the ring.
"We are examining this company and we see of course that it could be interesting," said a spokesman for France Telecom, Orange's parent company. "Nothing has been decided but we can confirm we are examining it."
Orange intends to use the technology for its Orange TV offering, which is available in several European countries, including France.
The broadcasters behind Project Kangaroo have now set their sights on creating a system which will open to use by a number of companies. This initiative - named Project Canvas - will see the catch-up services offered through televisions instead of computers.
