For TV junkies, Gemstar-TV Guide International Inc. is developing a mobile-phone application that would let people search program listings, set reminders for showings and forward reminders to friends' mobile devices, company officials said Monday.

The company, best known for its interactive program guide found in many set-top boxes, is showcasing its new Java-based software at the National Cable and Telecommunications Association's show in San Francisco this week.

Currently under development, the mobile-phone IPG is expected to be available later this year.

Besides setting and sending reminders and being able to search for listings by title, date or network, the i-Guide IPG will include features for scheduling recordings on digital video recorders that support the technology, Gemstar-TV Guide officials said. Support DVRs include Motorola Inc.'s DCT6412 HD-DVR set-top.

In addition, the new application gives users access to TV-related ring tones, wallpaper and video content, including previews of select shows.

The mobile application is similar to an IPG Gemstar-TV Guide has offered in Japan through its Interactive Program Guide Inc. joint venture with Dentsu Inc. and Tokyo News Service Ltd. G-Guide Mobile is available through Japanese wireless carrier NTT DoCoMo Inc.