London - Mobile network operator 3 UK has launched its first ad-supported mobile music video channel with major label Sony BMG. The service is offered with no data charges to subscribers, but requires that they view short ads at the beginning and end of each video.

Bedford, Mass. - Groove Mobile, a provider of mobile music download services, said on Thursday that Universal Music Group will offer its tracks along with fellow major Sony BMG on the mobile music service it powers for U.K. carrier 3 UK. Massachusetts-based Groove Mobile also powers a mobile music service for British carrier Vodafone UK.

Berlin - The Orchard, a digital distributor of independent label music, said on Wednesday that it has licensed its music, video and ringtone catalog to U.K. wireless carrier 3 UK, for use across the company's unlimited, full-track mobile download service.

London - U.K. mobile network operator 3 UK this week announced plans to launch free, ad-supported mobile video content for its subscribers. Available beginning in April from the company's Planet 3 mobile portal, the free, ad-supported video will be offered alongside existing for-pay content. Viewers will be asked to submit their age and gender -- for targeted advertising -- in order to access the videos. 3UK said it partnered with Rhythm New Media to both sell and serve ads on the new service.

London - U.K. mobile network operator 3 UK announced that it has partnered with San Diego-based Intercasting to provide its 3.75 million subscribers with access to social networks including LiveJournal, Xanga, Vox and BlackPlanet from their mobile phones. "Users will get a social networking experience tailored for the data and media capabilities of their phones, helping to drive adoption and repeat usage over the 3 network," said Rob Wells, head of mobile broadband at 3 UK.