Disney, Apple in TV Show Deal

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Walt Disney Co. and Apple Computer Inc. reached an agreement Wednesday to offer ABC and Disney Channel television shows for download from Apple’s iTunes 6 program. The downloaded shows will play on computers as well as the new iPod video device that Apple debuted on Wednesday.


As part of the agreement, Apple will offer downloadable versions of the hit ABC programs “Desperate Housewives” and “Lost,” along with the new series “Night Stalker” and the Disney Channel’s “That’s So Raven” and “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody” for $1.99 per episode.


Current season episodes of “Desperate Housewives” and “Lost” will be available the day after they are broadcast, and episodes from the complete first seasons of those shows will be available for download immediately, the companies said in a joint statement. Selected past episodes of “That’s So Raven” and “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” will be made available as well.


The revamped iTunes will also sell downloads of more than 2,000 music videos and short films from Pixar Animation Studios for $1.99 each. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.


“This initiative is a perfect example of us applying our strategic priorities, namely, marrying great content with cutting edge technology to more effectively distribute our content while enhancing the experience for our customers,” said Robert A. Iger, CEO of Disney.


The new video iPod features a 2.5-inch color screen larger than those on standard iPods on a device that is 30 percent thinner than its predecessor. The new device, which will begin shipping next week, can hold up to 150 hours of video or 15,000 songs. A model that can store 30 gigabytes of data will cost $299, while a 60-gigabyte version will cost $399.

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