NBC Universal has launched a new division dedicated to finding new business opportunities in the digital media marketplace.

Titled the Technology Growth Center, the business unit will develop NBC products for new platforms and be the home of an anti-piracy task force.

"Today, consumers want to enjoy media any time and any where. The TGC will help fulfill this demand by providing the necessary technology to foster a greater variety of distribution methods," said John Eck, president and CIO of Media Works, NBC Universal's technology and operations division.

New products to be handled by the TGC include interactive applications such as the one rolled out on digital satellite and cable for the Olympics.

On the business side, NBC has committed to a programme of lobbying officials in Washington, DC to push its position on digital media issues. The TGC's policy, strategy and standards division "focuses on increasing the influence and representation of NBC Universal's industry positions among standards consortia and in Washington," the company said in a written statement.