Motorola has introduced a multimedia IP set-top platform that lets users transfer content between their mobile devices and their home entertainment systems. The first implementation of the platform will be with Japanese operator KDDI.

The set-top platform is Motorola’s next step in providing its vision of media mobility, said Doug Means, corporate vice president and general manager for Motorola’s IP Video Systems business. It lets users access their content where and when it is convenient.

“It’s a true multimedia box focused around the phone,” he said. He likens it to a multimedia version of the iPod stereo system docking station. “It is more of a personalized experience and makes phones more functional,” he said.

The set-top platform feature video encoding capabilities so users can upload video from their personal video recorders and then transfer it to their mobile devices. When hooked up to an external monitor, users also can view DVDs. Users also can create and store personalized music and video libraries thanks to a CD ripping capability.

The set-top box is based on Motorola’s KreaTV open software platform. It is compatible with various OS middleware and digital rights management, and supports multiple different video formats ranging from MPEG-2 SD to H.264 HD, DVR, and hybrid.

The KDDI service, which is branded the “au Box,” is due to launch Nov. 1, 2008.