The American consumer electronics retailer Best Buy has launched its new digital video service CinemaNow which will provide customers same-day instant access to new release movies and TV shows on connected TV sets.
The service will initially be accessible through select connected Blu-ray Disc players and HDTVs, and on most PCs via the web. Beginning this month, the service will be available on all new connected Blu-ray Disc players and home theatre systems from LG Electronics. CinemaNow is also expected to launch on devices from various manufacturers, including Insignia, later this year.
CinemaNow, the result of the previously announced strategic relationship between Sonic Solutions and Best Buy, will be powered by the RoxioNow technology platform. Best Buy owns the legal rights to the CinemaNow trademark, and will use it going forward to market the service to consumers who will have the ability to buy or rent from an extensive library of premium content, including new release movies and TV shows, with no subscription required.
“With the introduction of CinemaNow, Best Buy continues our commitment to evolve with our customers as their demand for digital entertainment grows,” said Chris Homeister, senior vice president of entertainment for Best Buy, in a statement. “The convenience, selection and flexibility of the CinemaNow service offers customers more freedom in the way they choose to consume entertainment from Best Buy. This service, which complements our existing suite of digital entertainment brands, will be available to customers in their homes and on-the-go through a broad array of devices and will be brought to life in store with the help of our Blue Shirts and Geek Squad Agents.”