Downloading movies always was a bit of an odd duck. In some ways, it's an extension of the old need to own an artifact such as a DVD, possessive proof that you're down with "Office Space" or "Citizen Kane." When we buy a movie off iTunes, the file roosts on the local hard drive, gobbling up space. Kind of like a big DVD box set you rarely … [Read more...]
Vudu shrinks basic box to $149
Broadband movie service Vudu has halved the price of its basic set-top box, with the trusty BX100 now retailing for $149. Vudu, a pioneer in high-definition online video, also cut the price of its "Vudu XL" premium box to $499, from $999. The BX100 still doesn't come with wireless, so you'll get a bit of a break on that kit, too: $20 off to … [Read more...]
NBC shows back on iTunes, in HD
NBC shows are back on the iTunes store, ending a drawn-out and unusually messy dispute between NBC Universal and Apple. The deal was announced at Tuesday's unveiling of the new line of iPods. The iTunes 8 upgrade includes TV programs in high definition. Here's the Apple site's plug for the HD TV shows, in a bit of a mash: "Purchase select … [Read more...]
HBO shows command iTunes premium
Wasn't too long ago that Apple and NBC Universal went to the mattresses over flexible pricing for TV episode downloads. NBC wanted it; Steve Jobs didn't. NBC Uni walked. The iTunes Store policy of one-price-fits-all is toast, however, thanks to the clout of HBO's powerhouse series such as "Sex and the City," "The Wire" and "The … [Read more...]
New Apple TV is on the air
Apple TV boxes with the new and hopefully greatly improved software are in the stores. An "Inside Apple" newsletter emailed out in the middle of the night announced the availability. Apple customers are invited to test drive the new software at a retail outlet. As expected, the new features include rental of movies and TV shows directly from … [Read more...]
