Amazon offers instant downloads of purchased DVDs
updated 09:25 am EST, Thu December 10, 2009
Amazon launches Disc+ On Demand service
Amazon recently started a new service it calls Disc+ On Demand that will let users access digital copies of the movies they bought on DVD or Blu-ray instantly. A standard-definition copy of the purchased title will be automatically added to a user's Amazon Video On Demand library, where they can watch it on their PC, Mac or TiVo box before their DVD or Blu-ray disc ships. The digital copies can also be streamed through Amazon's website. Thus far, Amazon only offers just over 300 movie titles under the new scheme.
The service is only available to US customers due to licensing regulations. Also, Amazon is being careful to classify the free digital movie as a gift with a purchase and says it's only available for a limited time, though it doesn't specify how limited. Returning the actual disc for a refund will also result in buyers being billed for the video on demand movie.
The Disc+ On Demand service could represent a threat to companies like Netflix, which rent out video on demand titles. [via NewTeeVee]
