Akimbo expands VOD service to PCs

Company also signs deal with National Hockey League to offer Stanley Cup games

By Jennifer Netherby -- Video Business, 4/9/2007

APRIL 9 | While competitors rush to move their Internet-delivered TV and movies from the PC to the TV, Internet video-on-demand service Akimbo is going the opposite direction.

On April 16, the company will launch a PC version for Windows XP and Windows Vista of Akimbo’s TV and movie video-on-demand service, which is now offered primarily through Akimbo RCA set-top boxes that connect directly to the TV. Akimbo also is offered through AT&T’s HomeZone satellite and Internet service and was offered on a limited basis through Media Center PCs.

“There is a benefit to being in both places,” said Jim Funk, VP of marketing. “There’s a lot of PCs compared to other types of devices.”

The new PC offerings will reach more consumers and offer a broader array of Akimbo’s content, which ranges from TV shows from National Geographic and CNN to instructional videos, independent films, foreign programming and extreme sports. Not all of the programming available through the Akimbo set-top box will be available online. Movielink, which offers major studio movie downloads, won’t be available in the PC version.

Akimbo also has inked a deal with the National Hockey League to begin offering Stanley Cup games on a VOD basis within 48 hours after the game is played. NHL games will be available starting today and will be available on the PC version of the service.

Akimbo also has partnered with Sonic Solutions to offer burn-to-DVD this summer for some of its programs. Most programs will be available on a pay-per-view basis, with prices ranging from 50¢ to several dollars.

Akimbo’s PC version will be in beta for the first two weeks.