Apple's iPod Revolutionizes Television Viewing

Apple's announcement to make episodes of popular shows available on its video iPods has sent shockwaves through the television industry. The development, which allows users to download episodes of "Desperate Housewives" and "Lost" for $1.99 a piece, marks a significant shift in the way people consume television content. With the rise of digital video recorders and DVDs, the traditional broadcast television model is facing new challenges. ABC and its parent Walt Disney Co. are betting that the new technology will bring in more new fans of the programs than it will take away from traditional viewers.

Key Takeaways:

• The deal between Apple and ABC allows users to download episodes of "Desperate Housewives" and "Lost" for $1.99 per episode.
• The move is seen as a strategic attempt by ABC and Disney to pioneer new ways of distributing their content.
• Industry analysts are divided on the impact of the video iPod on traditional television viewing, with some predicting a significant shift and others downplaying its effects.
• The development will give users another option for consuming television content, in addition to digital video recorders and DVDs.
• The Walt Disney Co.'s initial pilot with two Disney Channel programs, "That's So Raven" and "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody," will also be available on iTunes.
• NBC has also had talks with companies like Apple about new ways of distributing programming, with a focus on creating a "consumer-centric" experience.

Statistics:

• $1.99: The price per episode of "Desperate Housewives" and "Lost" available on iTunes.
• 2: The number of Disney Channel programs, "That's So Raven" and "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody," that will be available on iTunes.
• 1: The day after episodes will go on sale for download, the day after they are broadcast.

Sources:

• By David Bauder, Associated Press
• ABC
• Walt Disney Co.
• TVpredictions.com
• Myers Report
• NBC Universal Digital Media