Apple to launch movie downloads site?
iMovies could be
coming to a (very small) screen near you
By Kelly Fiveash
Monday 11th September 2006 10:11
Software License Management Apple will debut a new video download
service tomorrow, if the rumours currently spooling around the
industry proves correct.
An invitation to the latest Apple conference was sent out to a
select bunch in the media with the tagline Its Showtime.
Speculation is rife that Apple could also launch a new iPod with a
wider screen for movie fans wanting to watch videos downloaded from
the Apple movie store.
Steve Jobs is the biggest stockholder at the Walt Disney Company,
after acquiring Pixar Animation Studios Inc earlier this year.
Business Week reports that this connection provides a natural
toehold for Disney to be among the first to sign a distribution
deal.
The report also claims that Hollywood studios are currently
in discussion with Apple about making movies available as
downloads.
But apparently not everyone is happy about such an arrangement and
this could limit what movies are made available on any Apple movie
store.
If the launch does go ahead tomorrow, Apple will hope to
monetise and legitimise the video downloading industry. And, if the
success of iTunes is anything to go by, YouTube may have a run for
its money.
Tomorrow, all will be revealed. Popcorn, anyone?
Yippee!! itunes....now imovie!
those with the newest mp4s can download movies and watch while on
coaches or during tour, etc. 