German cable operator Kabel BW has announced the launch of its long-awaited VOD service called Kabel BW Videothek. The operator said it is the first cable network to offer movies on demand.
“With the launch of our Kabel BW Video Library, we’re demonstrating how powerful our interactive network is and what kind of innovative services over the cable network are possible. We rely on established cable standards for the delivery of the movies, so our customers do not have to worry about complicated technology and can just enjoy their ordered film,” said Harald Roesch, chairman of the board at Kabel BW, in a statement.
Movies will be available in HD quality and viewers need an interactive cable tuner with a Kabel BW smart card to take advantage of the VOD offer. New titles cost €4.99; library titles are available from €1.99.
The cabler stressed that VOD over cable is much more efficient than a similar service over DSL, because there is no need for enough bandwidth to stream the movie to the viewer’s home.
