Lovefilm signs BBC content deal, new app for Sony Bravia TVs
updated 01:51 pm EST, Wed February 13, 2013
British streaming service to also show Amazon Studio pilots
Amazon's Lovefilm service in the UK has signed a deal with BBC Worldwide to continue offering BBC content to its customers through Lovefilm Instant. The announcement comes at the same time as the Lovefilm app reaches Sony Bravia televisions, as well as news that it will also stream 11 original TV series test pilots from Amazon Studios.
Though the BBC deal is a continuation of an existing content streaming agreement, it will also increase the range of content available. New for 2013 includes multi award-winning police drama Luther, the UK version of The Office, Extras, Primeval, Top Gear, and a number of other shows. Lovefilm already shows episodes of Doctor Who, Spooks, and various BBC documentaries.
Lovefilm will soon be showing the same pilots being created by Amazon Studios for Amazon Instant Video. Shows by writers of The Onion, The Daily Show and others will be aired, with viewer responses indicating to Amazon which shows to put into production for a full series run.
The new app for Bravia Smart TVs and Internet-connected Blu-ray players from Sony will be available in both the UK and Germany, joining similar apps offered through game consoles, tablets and computers. Customers will be able to stream movies and shows at 720P through Lovefilm Instant at no extra cost.
