Vudu offers new high-def option for online films

Says HDX is best quality available

By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 10/1/2008

OCT. 1 | Vudu is launching its online films in a new format, HDX, which the company touts as the best high-definition technology yet for content delivered by Web, TV and cable/satellite on-demand.

Starting today, Vudu will roll out 50 films in the HDX format, which plays back content in 1080p resolution. Featured films include such recent releases as The Spiderwick Chronicles, In Bruges, Speed Racer and such classics as Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Chinatown and Saturday Night Fever.

Vudu users watch content via a set-top box that beams programming to TV sets without the need of a computer.

Although Blu-ray Disc will offer a superior high-def picture, Vudu promises that HDX will trump all current digital high-def services, spanning iTunes, Xbox Live and PlayStation Store. In general, online and broadcast high-def is delivered in 780p resolution.

Because of its relatively large file size, HDX delivery time is a relatively long three to four hours per film. However, Vudu will charge the same $3.99 to $5.99 movie pricing whether users choose HDX or straight high-def, which can be watched immediately upon purchase.

Vudu’s standard-definition films are priced between $2.99 and $4.99.

“We don’t make the claim that this is as good as Blu-ray, but consumers will not think the quality is lacking,” said Prasanna Ganesan, Vudu chief technology officer. “This is better than any other on-demand high-def experience out there.”

Going forward, all new Vudu releases that are available in straight high-def also will be offered in the HDX format.

HDX promises to enhance details within dark images, preserve film grain and tune the picture for optimal display on current LCD and plasma TVs.

Coinciding with the HDX bow, Best Buy has agreed to carry Vudu in its stores nationwide, according to Vudu management. By July, Vudu boxes were being sold in about 75 Best Buy outlets.

Additionally, Best Buy is handing out a $200 Vudu film credit for those who purchase boxes at the chain.

“Vudu HDX truly raises the bar on picture quality for [high-def] movies delivered on demand, over the air, satellite or Internet and across the entire video landscape,” added Mark Jung, Vudu CEO. “Accelerating consumer adoption of large-screen HDTVs has fueled strong demand for the kind of viewing experience and picture quality that only HDX can deliver.”