Andre Yoskowitz
14 Oct 2008 19:09
Sony has followed through on its promise that it would become the first studio to premiere a major motion picture rental on a networked video hub before it premieres on physical media.
Owners of Sony BRAVIA HDTV sets with Internet Video Link will soon have the option to rent Hancock , almost a month before its stated DVD release date. The options include a 720p HD version as well as a 480p version for users with slower Internet connections.
The rentals are similar to those of iTunes in which the rental is yours for 24 hours of unlimited viewing. The price however is a totally different story. Apple and VUDU charge $6 USD for new-release 720p titles while the new Sony titles will cost $10 USD.
Interestingly, the electronics giant added that they will be sending free copies of Hancock on Blu-ray to any user who rents the movie and signs up online. Pretty good deal if there are no other catches.