MUMBAI: US broadcaster Fox and US pay TV platform DirecTV have announced an agreement to bring viewers content on demand through the new DirecTV Plus digital video recorder (DVR).
The innovative deal will provide DirecTV subscribers the ability to choose between pre-air and post-air television programming options for the first time ever.
From March 2006 viewers will get a ‘first look’ at prime time hits from FX a full 24 to 48 hours prior to their initial broadcasts for $2.99 and, later in the year, DirecTV subscribers will have post-air access to Fox’s series for just 99 cents for six to seven days following their broadcast.
In addition, DirecTV viewers will have free, on demand access to a weekly showcase of exclusive highlights from Fox Entertainment, including the promotional presentation of limited, full-length television episodes, extended footage from Fox programmes, and behind the scenes features on Fox films and TV shows.
News Corp president and COO Peter Chernin says, “We are committed to finding new ways to bring our content to consumers and we think this deal is a huge step forward in giving them greater choice and control over their entertainment experience. For the very first time, viewers will be able to watch their favorite shows before the rest of the world.”
“And we now have the ability to create different cuts of our programmes for the pre-air audience – versions with additional scenes and materials not included in the network broadcast – something entirely new. It’s an exciting opportunity for the television consumer and for us. Moreover, this new partnership will also enrich the viewing experience by providing access to DirecTV’s enhanced services, features and interactive functionality.”
DirecTV president and CEO Chase Carey says, “Growing our interactive/On Demand service is a top priority for DirecTV and our partnership with Fox is further testament to the commitment DirecTV is making to delivering the very best in television and entertainment programming. By continually offering our subscribers new and exclusive programming choices at their convenience, we not only enhance the viewing experience but broaden the depth of our services and offerings.”
Under terms of the agreement, viewers will have on demand access to some of television’s most acclaimed dramas, comedies and documentaries including FX’s The Shield, Rescue Me, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and 30 Days and Fox’s 24 and Prison Break.
DirecTV claims that its Plus DVR brings the viewing experience to new levels with an array of network programming on demand, one-touch pause, rewind and fast-forward functionality and 100 hours of recording capacity and interactive functionality.