DIRECTV On Demand Likely 'Early 4Q'
The satcaster will offer movies and TV shows on demand via high-speed Internet lines.
By Swanni
The service, called DIRECTV On Demand, will start with roughly 2,000-3,000 hours of movies and TV shows, including about 10-20 percent in High-Definition.
Owners of DIRECTV's HD DVRs will be able to download the shows over high-speed Internet lines connected to the set-top, according to Eric Shanks, DIRECTV's executive vice president for entertainment.
In an interview with TVPredictions.com, Shanks said that a fourth quarter launch is the "target" but added it will likely be "early fourth quarter than later."
He said about 85 percent of the On Demand programming will be free to DIRECTV customers with the rest paid.
DIRECTV is now testing the VOD service in approximately 1,000 subscriber homes across the country.
Shanks said the trial's programming lineups -- and other system features -- could change by launch. But the service is expected to include Pause, Fast-Forward and Rewind so users can watch On Demand programs when and how they wish.
DIRECTV is hoping that the service will counter cable's longtime advantage in the on demand area.
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Swanni (Phillip Swann) is
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