Boxee preps system for paid content
updated 12:20 pm EST, Wed January 20, 2010
Boxee app, video makers can charge for downloads
Boxee on Wednesday revealed that it will implement a payment system for content through both its software front-end and the Boxee Box. The Payment Platform will give creators of apps, videos and whole channels the option to charge for some or all of their titles. It can apply to existing content and will support alternative models such as pay-per-view subscriptions or downloadable extras.
The young media company holds up iTunes as an example of importance of an accessible, simple way to get paid content and plans to improve on that model. In addition to being more flexible than just purchase or rentals, the company plans to collect a much smaller royalty than the 30 percent found at "many app stores," including Apple's.
Use of the platform should be an option in the summer.
Free content will remain, but Boxee sees the addition of paid content as an important part of developing the Internet as a key source of TV beyond just the basic ad-supported and per-download models. Most living room media hubs, such as the Apple TV and Roku Internet Player, either have only an incidental focus on TV or require that customers pay for each episode and may only discount for purchasing whole seasons.
