Anticipating the need for common standards across fixed and mobile networks, the Open IPTV Forum and bmcoforum (Broadcast Mobile Convergence Forum) have decided to merge.

The two organizations noted that mobile devices are not only being integrated with IPTV services, but that they are also coming increasingly to be service control points.

In announcing these plans, YunChao Hu, President of the OIPF, said "The strength and breadth of the combined efforts will provide the opportunity to build on each organization's established individual credibility. The merging of bmcoforum's activities into the OIPF will create an entity with the influence and energy to more effectively drive the development and deployment of the blended services market".

Herbert Mittermayr, Chairman of the Board of bmcoforum, commented "The bmcoforum considers the extension of the IPTV to mobile usage and hybrid networks as an excellent vision to further develop the mass market for multiscreen media consumption. Joining the forces of both fora will unlock the potential of exciting new user experiences".