Channel 4 Set to Launch VOD Service

LONDON, November 15:
Channel 4 plans to launch its video-on-demand media player service called 4oD
on December 6.

4oD will allow users to view Channel 4 programs online for up to 30
days after their first transmission. According to Channel 4, 25 percent of U.K.
viewers with broadband connections will be able to go online and watch current
shows as well as archive programs such as Queer As Folk, Trigger Happy TV and
Drop The Dead Donkey. Viewers
will be able to rent content from Channel 4 for 99 pence ($1.87) for television
shows and 1.99 pounds for films, according to Reuters.

Once rented, the
programs can be kept in a personalized library until they are first viewed and
then watched an unlimited number of times for 48 hours.

Channel 4 has signed licensing agreements with almost 100 independent
production companies including Endemol Entertainment which makes Big Brother.

"The launch of
4oD positions Channel 4 at the global cutting edge of the convergence of
television and the web — this is the first time a major broadcaster has made
all its commissioned content available on demand," Channel 4 Chief
Executive Andy Duncan said in a statement.