Apple moves iTunes movies into HD

[dhilipkumar]

Apple moves iTunes movies into HD


Apple is for the first time offering HD movies through its iTunes video store.

The company said that it would be offering twelve titles for download in HD format, with several other films being added in the coming weeks.

Apple plans to use the same price system as its standard movie titles for rent and purchase. New titles will cost $19.95 for HD purchase, while rentals will cost $4.95 and will be available within 30 of the film's release.

The move reflects both the increasing amount of bandwidth available to consumers and the push by media companies to legitimise the new format.

The company said that it is targeting the HD films at both standard Mac and PC users as well as customers who use the Apple TV device with HDTV sets.

"Movie fans are going to love being able to buy and rent films including 'Quantum of Solace' and 'Twilight' in stunning HD from the iTunes Store," said Apple internet services vice president Eddy Cue.

"Customers have made HD content on iTunes a hit, with over 50 percent of TV programming being purchased in HD when available."

Currently, the company is offering twelve films as HD downloads, including " W," "Transporter 3," and "Punisher: War Zone."

Starting on March 21st, users will be able to download the film "Twilight" in HD. Three days later, Apple plans to release "Quantum of Solace" as an HD title as well. Users can pre-order both films.
vnunet.com