In the wake of last week's iPhone frenzy, consumers are clamoring for fresh, engaging video content to view on the new devices. Anticipating this demand, ON Networks, a new media company which develops original short-form, weekly shows for a variety of lifestyle interests, is offering 10 newly-launched programs on iTunes for free download.
In an effort to further engage these users, ON Networks remastered its content to run at the optimal resolution for the iPhone's screen, which has a 16:9 aspect ratio when held horizontally, and a higher resolution than the video iPod. In making these adjustments, ON hopes to attract early technology adopters hungry for fresh, episodic programming.
"With the iPhone and the growing popularity of web video, digital video recorders, IPTV and gaming devices, consumers are clearly living in an on-demand, opt-in content world that gives them infinite choice and flexibility," said Kip McClanahan, ON Networks' CEO. "By making our shows available via the Internet, iTunes and other new services, we are delivering compelling content to consumers in whatever manner best suits their lifestyles."
ON is one of the few companies with original, high-definition TV shows that can be downloaded via iTunes and watched on an iPhone, iPod and/or via Apple TV. To download them, users simply go to the iTunes Store, select "Podcasts" and find ON Networks in the Featured Provider list on the left-hand side. Clicking on the company's name will bring users to a branded page with the following shows:
- Cocktails on the Fly - A quirky mixologist offers creative cocktail-making tips for drink enthusiasts and aperitif aficionados alike.
- Zen Living - A virtual guide that provides tips on how to make everyday living more balanced, natural and healthy.
- ON Dating - An online dating advice program designed to help viewers navigate the sometimes treacherous terrain of Internet romance.
- Comedy Insider - Comedians' insights into the world of stand-up and pleasing a crowd.
- Golf Tips - High and low handicappers lower their scores with help from seasoned PGA professional Joe Beck.
- Dinner with the Band - A virtual mash-up of indie bands with hip cuisine.
In addition to adding new weekly episodes for its existing lineup, ON is continuously adding new shows to its roster. Shows can be watched anytime, anywhere by going to www.onnetworks.com and clicking on the desired icon. Viewers can then subscribe to receive email updates about new episodes, as well as get other program information. Other shows available at
www.onnetworks.com are: Stump the Chef, Budget Health Nut, Backpack Picnic and Austin Connoisseur.
To share an episode of any ON program, simply select the desired show's episode and click on the "chain" icon in the player control bar. There, you can copy the embedded HTML player code and paste it into any web page.