Apple opens iTunes to HD movies

by Stevie Smith - Mar 20 2009, 16:30

In the same week that Samsung Mobile launched its own online movie and television entertainment service to challenge the likes of iTunes, Netflix and Xbox Live, Apple Inc. has moved to up the ante by announcing the wider availability of high-definition (HD) films through its popular iTunes Store.

Offered up for either full purchase or rental, Apple’s new selection of 720p content will continue to grow alongside future studio releases and already includes relatively new movies such as comic book adaptations Punisher: War Zone and The Spirit along with action titles Transporter 3 and Bangkok Dangerous.

Notably, the Cupertino-based gadget giant is already taking pre-orders for vampire blockbuster Twilight, which is scheduled for arrival of March 21, and James Bond action epic Quantum of Solace, which will follow on March 24.

Prices for high-definition movies available through iTunes – on both PCs and Mac systems – are positioned at $19.99 USD for a full purchase, while high-definition rentals cost markedly less at $4.99 USD and older HD titles are priced at $3.99 USD.

However, in order to take advantage of the HD rental structure presented by iTunes, users will have to wait for a period of 30 days after specific titles arrive on sale through Apple’s service.

The unveiling of a more complete high-definition catalogue, while extending the reach of HD, will not compromise the availability of new and old titles in a standard definition format and also for the iPhone and iPod Touch handsets.

Note: HD movies are presently only available on the U.S. version of iTunes.

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