The multi-year deal gives Verizon Wireless exclusive US rights to offer the Mobile ESPN application, which offers real-time score updates, video highlights, short news flashes and news alerts.
The deal may also include a broadcast TV service for mobiles featuring an ESPN channel with much of the same programming being shown on its sports cable networks. Verizon expects to offer the service in at least one US market by the end of March.
The Verizon deal is the first example of a new ESPN strategy, partnering with an industry leader to offer the service after last year pulling the plug on Mobile ESPN as a standalone mobile phone company featuring its own handsets, calling plans, customer service and monthly phone bills.
