Big Screen Little Screen

Everyone saw it coming, including Netflix, who just yesterday took the cap off their “Watch Instantly” service, allowing for unlimited streaming movies (LAT).  Just as speculated, at this morning’s Macworld keynote, Steve Jobs announced that iTunes will feature movie rentals, effective today. All major studios represented, including Touchstone, Miramax, MGM, Lionsgate, Newline, Fox, WB, Disney, Paramount, Universal & Sony. The particulars, from MacRumors.

Over 1000 movies - available 30 days after the DVD release of the film.
Watch anywhere - Macs, PCs, all current iPods and iPhone.
Watch instantly - 30 second delay with modern broadband
Rules - 30 days to start watching, 24 hours to complete once started
Pricing - $2.99, new releases $3.99

Also, Apple TV is in line for an upgraded model (and an update for current owners) that will allow High Definition downloads at $3.99/$4.99 (Engadget).  Lastly, some upcoming DVD releases, starting with Family Guy: Blue Harvest Special Edition, will feature an “iTunes Digital Copy” that buyers can transfer to their computer, iPod, iPhone, or Apple TV.

Tags: itunes movie rentals, ipod, iphone, apple