iTunes movie sales go HD

Stephen Withers
Friday, 20 March 2009 02:16

Business IT - Technology

HD movies are available for purchase as well as rental from Apple's iTunes Store.

The iTunes Store has offered HD movie rentals for some time, but not for purchase.

"Customers have made HD content on iTunes a hit, with over 50 percent of TV programming being purchased in HD when available," said Eddy Cue, vice president of Internet services at Apple.

It makes you wonder why it took so long to add HD movie sales, but then anything involving content rights seems to take an age to negotiate.

The initial list of HD movies available for purchase isn't exactly stellar, so Apple is using a couple of forthcoming titles to publicise the new option.

Quantum of Solace will be released on March 24, and Twilight on March 21.

Titles immediately available include Bangkok Dangerous, My Best Friend's Girl, and Disaster Movie.

According to an Apple statement, HD movies will cost $US19.99, but they're showing as $US14.99 within the iTunes Store.

The price includes an SD copy for use on an iPhone or video-capable iPod.

"Movie fans are going to love being able to buy and rent films including Quantum of Solace and Twilight in stunning HD from the iTunes Store," said Eddy Cue.

There's no indication that HD movies are available outside the US, or when they will be offered.