Taiwan : China Network Systems (CNS), Taiwan's leading cable TV service provider, in which Rupert Murdoch's Star TV has a stake, will be launching Asia's first all digital interactive cable television services called Total TV in October 2002.

Through 'Total TV' digital set-top boxes, viewers in Taiwan will have access to high-quality broadcast signals with DVD video and CD audio qualities, an official release says.

Total TV will provide enhanced television functionalities such as favorite channel selection, interactive program guide, parental lock and a host of interactive services such as current information, games, leisure, dining & shopping, finance & banking. Services such as home shopping, home banking and stock trading will be added after getting the approval of the regulatory body in Taiwan, the release says.

CNS is a joint venture between Star and the Koos Group and has access to more than 1 million households with 12 cable systems partners throughout Taiwan. It has invested NT$700 million in building Taiwan's first digital head-end operations in Keelung, and is ready to launch its first-phase of digital interactive services in Taipei's Chung Yong He district in October 2002.