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More movies on the way to iTunes Store?

By Stevie Smith Jun 11, 2007, 13:06 GMT

While perhaps not known to be exactly bursting at the virtual seams with movie-based content, this week’s news indicates that Apple Inc.’s eponymous iTunes Store is in the process of attempting to introduce a significantly more robust selection of feature films to its current catalogue of downloadable media.Specifically, according to a related report published by the Wall Street Journal, two studio bigwigs closely associated with the ongoing developments have revealed that California-based Apple Inc. is presently immersed in discussions with various Hollywood studios in order to bolster its rather thin-on-the-ground iTunes movie line-up and duly widen its already considerable multimedia download appeal.In a pitch approach described as aggressive, it is believed that Apple is looking for movie studios to agree to a system that would see their new films downloaded on a rental basis, with iTunes charging its users $2.99 USD per movie for a set number of days of viewing access before an eventual predetermined expiration. However, whether the major studios band together in acceptance of such a plan remains to be seen, with Paramount Pictures apparently favouring the proposed system, while Universal Studios is evidently not so keen. Although it would appear that the proffered rental system is not set in stone from Apple’s perspective, leaving plenty of room for movement with the movie studios in question, any eventually carved agreement will only help solidify iTunes’ positioning as it looks to increase its appeal in the movie department. Presently offering television-based content from several broadcasters, iTunes only has classic (and/or dated) movies from Lionsgate, MGM, and Paramount in its line-up to tempt users forward, with most of the major players (outside of Disney) displaying a distinct reticence to deliver brand new content via Apple’s download store. It is believed that Apple’s ambitions to facilitate movie rentals may well be an attempt to showcase the value and potential of downloads through iTunes and loosen the so-far staunch refusal by the leading Hollywood providers to deliver new releases to the service. It is also possible that Apple’s decision to investigate the implementation of movie rentals – something it has consistently shied away from with its music department – is a move designed to bolster consumer interest in its compatible video iPod and upcoming iPhone handset. As things stand, studios have held off on joining iTunes due to Apple’s proposed pricing structure, which would see new movies available for download at approx. $14.99, which is markedly less than that of a new DVD purchase, and also because the ability for a user to transfer their initial rental from a PC to other Apple devices may result in copy compromised rentals and sales. Apple Inc. has not yet issued an official comment on the matter.

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Slideshow BradJun 11th, 2007 - 13:55:34

It is a great plan. It works great for the USA, but what about Europe and the UK ? When are these movies and TV shows going to show up on our iTunes or is it just a service which benefits americans ?

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hugepeterJun 11th, 2007 - 14:01:26

i-tunes stores are incredible. If you want to get low rate american express credit cards just search for credit-card-gallery.com on google..

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muellerduranJun 11th, 2007 - 14:02:55

It's a real fact that proved to be accepted. If you blog or have a webpage, include the latest news directly on your page.. just search for widgetmate on google..

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achbedJun 11th, 2007 - 15:06:24

Sideshow:

Everyone besides the US will get the shows and movies when the MPAA members get off their fat asses and realize that the rest of the world wants these things too. The current system of movie releases (whether in the theatre, on DVD, or online) is stuck in the middle of last century. Their whole business needs to change to face the reality of modern telecommunications and overnight shipping. RIAA members are starting to realize this - slowly. The movie industry is at least 5 years behind.

Personally, I hope that these movies are decent quality - since HD is starting to move into the home, I would expect that any on-line version would be of DVD quality or lower (please not lower!). Of course, I wonder how long it will take before the DRM is cracked on this - and if they will allow iPod use or only Apple TV and PC display.

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