iTunes viewed as b'cast threat in U.K.

August 30, 2007 Apple's popular iTunes TV download service launched Wednesday in the U.K. with a slate of Viacom and Disney programs that threatens to upset the nascent commercial model of the U.K. broadcasters' own online services. "iTunes will kill broadcasters' download-to-own stone dead unless they come up with device strategies like a Freeview-plus model that links download-to-own to a TV set or portable devices," Screen Digest analyst Arash Amel said. Apple's Hollywood studio deals to offer programs such as "Grey's Anatomy" and "Desperate Housewives" for £1.89 ($3.78) per episode through iTunes U.K., will put pressure on the broadcasters' relationship with the studios.

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