New Aussie movie download service EzyDownload will initially only work on Windows and Xbox 360, but versions for Mac, Linux, set-top boxes and mobile phones are on the way.With the future of DVD clearly heading for the downloaded dustbin of history, the EzyDVD online DVD store clearly hopes moving into movie downloads will secure its long term profitability.
The site, a spin-off from successful online and physical DVD retailer EzyDVD, is scheduled for a September 2008 launch.
EzyDownload will use technology acquired from collapsed online media company Reeltime, which promoted the concept of downloads via set-top boxes. Former Reeltime investor and boss Andrew Wilshire is heading up the operation. Despite that pedigree, EzyDVD company director Jim Zavos is adamant that the rollout of multiple platforms will be gradual.
The service will use a custom player from US company ExtendMedia. The initial release will be Windows and Xbox only, but Zavos anticipates offering other versions ? including Mac, Linux, set-top boxes and mobile phones ? if demand is evident.
The main current local competition in Australia for the site is Telstra's Bigpond Movies service (which is similarly Windows only). The threat of Apple's iTunes store (Mac and Windows) also lurks in the background, although the ever-secretive company has given no timeframe for when it might make movies available to Australian consumers (though it did this week launch TV episode downloads in Australia, indicating that movies might not be far away.)
One of BigPond Movies' selling points is that downloads aren't counted against monthly totals for Telstra ISP customers, a key issue given the size of movie files. The visibility of the EzyDVD retail site, which attracts around 40,000 consumers a day, would also help promote the site.
The move for EzyDVD to online movie downloads seems to be a solid step in the right direction.
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