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Online TV, free from ABC: Free web TV - Catch is the ads(News & Observer, The (Raleigh, NC) (KRT) Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge) Apr. 11--The ABC television network is embracing the latest technology with plans to offer prime-time shows free over the Internet. But, in a decidedly retro move, viewers won't be able to fast-forward through commercials. When ABC starts making popular TV shows available online next month, it will be the first time a broadcast network has made full-length shows available for free online. If the experiment succeeds, it could boost the network's appeal to advertisers and forge a new bond with tech-savvy viewers. THE SCOOP ABC, which is owned by Walt Disney, said Monday it will make episodes of three popular prime time TV series -- "Lost," "Desperate Housewives" and "Commander in Chief" -- available online the day after they air so that consumers can watch them on their timetable. The entire season of "Alias" also will be available. WHEN May and June. ABC says it's a two-month experiment. WHY ABC wants to boost its audience and hang onto its traditional advertisers. Sponsors are worried that viewers are using digital video recorders such as Tivos to zap through commercials. One way the networks have fought this is by integrating sponsors' brand names into show story lines. Creating zap-proof commercials is another way to go. ABC says viewers will be able to put programs on pause and move from one "chapter" to another. But fast-forwarding through commercials won't be an option. WILL IT WORK? Maybe. So far, advertisers such as AT&T, Ford and Procter & Gamble have signed on and will offer interactive ads tailored to the Internet. VIEWERS' PERSPECTIVE Broadband service is essential for watching streaming video. The shows can be watched on a PC or a Mac through ABC.com. COMPLICATIONS The arrangement bypasses network affiliates, although ABC said it is exploring ways to work with them on online offerings. At any rate, you won't hear complaints from the Triangle's ABC station, WTVD. It's owned by ABC. OTHER APPROACHES CBS lets viewers download "Survivor" episodes for 99 cents after they air. The Triangle's CBS affiliate, WRAL, is seeking the network's approval to make hit shows available on WRAL.com. ABC already offers some ad-free shows for $1.99 each at Apple Computer's iTunes store. RAMIFICATIONS If watching TV programs over the Internet becomes popular, it could spark sales of higher-end computers designed to be digital entertainment hubs. |