Warner launches on-demand site in Japan

DIGITAL: Content can be viewed on PCs, mobile phones

By Jennifer Netherby -- Video Business, 10/28/2009

OCT. 28 | DIGITAL: Warner Bros. Entertainment Japan will begin offering Japanese consumers the ability to rent or buy Warner movies and TV shows directly from the studio for viewing on PCs and mobile phones by the end of November.

Warner On Demand will offer new and recent TV and movie titles including the upcoming Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince as well as classics from its library, some of which have never been released on disc.

Consumers will be able to transfer films between their PC and mobile phones from NTT Docomo for viewing on either device.

Warner said it is launching the service to give consumers more ways to watch movies and to build a more direct relationship with them, according to the announcement. The company is calling it an extension of a global WB loyalty program started in the U.S.

Warner will send regular news and updates from the studio on theatrical, Blu-ray Disc, DVD and digital releases to consumers.

Warner Bros. Entertainment Japan president and representative director William Ireton said Warner On Demand is part of a “strategic initiative perfectly suited to Japan’s leadership in technology,” and one that will help the studio grow the Japanese video market.

The site will be the only one in Japan to offer WB content through electronic sell-through.

Warner has partnered with Japanese software company Skillup Japan to deliver digital content through Skillup’s content delivery platform.