The onset and widespread use of video on demand, TiVo, DVRs and the like, have revolutionized the way people watch television and the future of popular media in general. Now, IPTV, or TV over the Internet is gaining popularity as well.
At the forefront of this movement are:
- Yahoo / CBS
- NBC and ABC in conjunction with Apple iTunes
- Verizon V Cast
- Cingular Video
The Rundown
Since there are many methods of accessing entertainment on demand, we’ll break it down for you by the aforementioned categories.
Yahoo – fast becoming an advertising powerhouse, Yahoo just announced that it is teaming up with CBS to offer free downloads of two of CBS’s newer comedies. The benefits: no commercials and the episode, which airs every Monday, will be available for a week until the next episode airs
NBC, ABC and Apple – some popular programs that air on NBC and ABC are available for download from iTunes straight to your computer or your video iPod. The benefits: episodes of select shows are always available, but you do have to pay a small download fee.
Verizon V Cast – also partnering with CBS, Verizon is making access to shows like CSI and Survivor available on your Verizon cell phone. The benefits: Could this possibly be any more convenient?
Cingular Video – partnering with HBO, Cingular Video will offer news, sports and entertainment clips, along with expanded multimedia capabilities, slated for early this year. The benefits: just like the V Cast, this service makes premier programming available to subscribers with high speed-capable cell phones.
So Many Choices, So Little Time
There are countless other programs and ways to get streaming, on-demand TV and entertainment to whatever medium you prefer. Check out the services that fit your needs, your schedule and your budget and never be a slave to the TV again!
