Published:
27-Oct-08
Sony is to stream Sony Pictures blockbuster
Hancock direct to appropriately equipped Bravia HDTV sets in advance of the film's release on DVD and Blu-ray Disc (BD). The film, which will be available to rent in either hi-def or standard definition versions between 28 October and 10 November, will cost $9.99 per 24 hour viewing slot. Customers, who must have invested in a $300 internet video link module to benefit from the offer, will be mailed a copy of the film on BD—list price $39.99—after its US release on 25 November.
Our take...
The streaming of video to Sony Bravia HDTVs has been possible since January 2007 but this is the first time that premium blockbuster content has been made available. Sony has made clear that this is a trial and does not represent a new strategy, however, in common with others studios, company is experimenting with video-on-demand (VOD) and release windows across its many platforms.
Move allows Sony to promote two of its products at the same time: the internet video link module will provide the film in 720p resolution (or 480p depending on broadband speeds) while the BD version will be 1080p—assuming of course that the Bravia HDTV owner also owns a BD player or PS3 games console! Other consumer electronics companies such as Panasonic and Samsung are also experimenting with selling or renting video content direct to consumers via their new generation internet-enabled HDTVs; Sony is no doubt keen to establish itself and its popular Bravia range of displays as an early contender, having lost ground to Apple and iTunes in the music segment.
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