Overview of the iTunes Video Store:
The iTunes video store is unique in that it is the only video downloading service available that does not use a web browser (such as Internet Explorer or Firefox). Instead, the iTunes video store is embedded inside of the iTunes media player.
If you have iTunes, you already have the iTunes video store. If you do not have iTunes, it's free to download.
Variety of Movies at iTunes Video Store:
The iTunes video store has hundreds of film titles for download and purchase, as well as TV shows from 30+ TV networks.
If you are an avid movie-goer who watches the typical commercial film at the box office, chances are it will be released on the iTunes video store. By the same token, if you want prime-time shows from any major network, you will most likely find them here. iTunes has an exclusive contract with Disney, so this is the only place to find their movies. Most avant-garde, independent and foreign films are not sold by iTunes.
Ease of Use of iTunes Video Store:
The iTunes video store is easy to navigate and search. The front page displays the new arrivals to the store, as well as top video purchases. Synopses and previews are available for all films before purchase. The Power Search feature lets you find movies by title, actor, director, producer, year and MPAA rating. Parental controls let you dictate what types of films your kids can access on iTunes.
Software Necessary for iTunes Video Store:
The iTunes Video Store, and all related software, works with Macs and PCs. You need iTunes software to access the store, and Quicktime for playing back the movies. Both programs are free.
Sign-Up Procedure for iTunes Video Store:
In order to download content from the iTunes Video Store, you must first have an iTunes account. This is a free, non-subscription account. If you already have an account at the iTunes Music store you do not need to make a new account for video purchases.
To create an account you need an email address and password, as well as a credit card or PayPal account. Your payment information is stored with Apple, which charges you automatically for every download.
Cost of iTunes Video Store:
All television episodes are available for $1.99, with special pricing available if you buy an entire season. Feature-length movies sell for $12.99 during their first week of release and $14.99 afterward. Older movies cost $9.99.
Rights to Content of iTunes Video Store:
Once you pay for a video from the iTunes video store a DVD-quality video instantaneously begins downloading to the iTunes library on your computer. The video is yours indefinitely for unlimited viewings.
You can transfer videos between up to five computers and unlimited iPods. You can back-up movie files on an external hard drive, or on a data DVD (not for playback).
