In a first of its kind deal for Time Warner’s HBO, the premium cable channel has agreed to license older episodes of its programming to Amazon Prime’s subscription streaming service. The agreement is the first such HBO deal with an online video provider, and will make original series such as “The Wire” and “The Sopranos” available for online streaming. Prior to this deal, HBO shows were only available for digital purchase through Amazon or Apple’s iTunes, or via rental services such as Netflix. Continue reading HBO Signs Exclusive Licensing Pact with Amazon Prime Service

Twitter is intent on becoming like a social TV guide for its users, and the newest phase of that strategy can be seen in the platform’s latest app update. Now, in the corner of the screen, Twitter promotes television shows to users based on how active those users are. The idea is to drive traffic to TV programs. Down the line this kind of marketing will likely be monetized, but it needs to be done in a way that current and new users understand and do not find annoying. Continue reading Twitter Providing TV Suggestions Based on its User Activity

Apple did not unveil any updates to its Apple TV software or hardware during the company’s press event this week as many had expected. However, people familiar with Apple’s plans indicate that Apple TV is scheduled for software updates on September 18, the same day that the company plans to release its new iTunes Radio service and redesigned iOS 7 mobile operating software for download by iPhone, iPad and iPod touch owners. Continue reading Apple TV Software Could Be Scheduled for Refresh Next Week