Smart Home Lifestyle

May 14, 2006

More television networks are jumping on the on-demand bandwagon

Fighting over the TV is so “last year” now that TV network stations are jumping on the “primetime on demand bandwagon.” On demand programming used to just offer movies and sporting events, but now you can watch your favorite shows, like “Lost,” just about anywhere and any time.

Thanks to ever-evolving digital technologies, you no longer have to watch the TV to “watch TV,” since primetime shows can be downloaded to your PC, video Ipod, or viewed online. And what’s the best part? Some of it’s free. During the months of May and June, ABC.com gives you a front row seat to full episodes of four of their popular primetime shows- for free.

“In the months ahead, ABC.com will not only deliver a high quality, on-demand viewing experience to users, but will also gain valuable knowledge and research to help us better understand and serve our consumers in the rapidly evolving digital world,” said Albert Cheng, executive vice president, Digital Media, Disney-ABC Television Group. “Our mission with this trial is to gather key learning about the technology and the consumers who utilize it in order for ABC.com to become the leading broadband digital entertainment experience, packed with innovation, immersive content for our viewers.”

Current viewing options include “Lost,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Commander in Chief,” and “Alias,” and will be streamed in 16X9 format for a cinema-like feel.

Is it commercial-free?

According to ABC.com, a maximum of four commercials will be placed at various times throughout the show and require the viewer to watch at least 30 seconds in order to fast forward the show.

“We have said all along that we are dedicated to finding ways to bring our advertiser partners along with us as we embrace new ways of doing business in the world of digital media,” said Mike Shaw, president, Sales and Marketing, ABC Television Network. “This unique project has allowed us to offer our advertisers the ability to deliver increased effectiveness in their messaging through targeted and engaging interactive ads that offer compelling consumer experiences.”

Can I watch using dial-up?

To watch full-length clips, you need a high-speed Internet connection like DSL or Cable Modem. The faster the connection, the better the viewing experience. Viewers with slower connections like dial-up may experience frequent delays or may not be able to view the episodes at all. You also have to be located in the United States to view full-length clips.

Who else is doing it?

CBS.com also offers on-demand programming, although much more limited and it will cost you. Currently, CBS.com only offers this season’s Survivor: Panama- Exile Island, although up until now, all 12 episodes are accessible. Shows cost either $0.99 or $1.99 per episode. Just remember, you can’t download these shows to a portable video device, nor can they be burned to a DVD. They’re meant for computer viewing only.

For shows that are more portable, check out iTunes.com. iTunes Music Store features television shows from ABC, NBC, MTV, ESPN, Sci Fi Channel, Comedy Central, Disney, Nickelodeon and Showtime, among others. For $1.99, you can own the latest episode of your favorite show just one day after it airs, and there are no commercials. Plus, you can buy a Season Pass and get a while season of a TV show, past or present, at a discount. ITunes is a great solution for those who want to watch TV shows on their PC or on their video iPod on the go.

Besides primetime television shows, iTunes offers podcasts from big names such as ABC News, CNN, ESPN, NPR. And with these, all you have to do is subscribe and iTunes automatically downloads each new episode as it becomes available, for free. Every podcaset on the iTunes Music Store is free with subscription.

Author: Diana Kostigen, Marketing/Public Relations Director, Comtec