ABC Jumps Into the Crowded Internet TV Pool with Veoh Deal

Posted 06/24/2008 at 1:03pm | by Mark Edward Soper

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ABC Broadens Its Online Presence with Veoh Networks Deal

The New York Times reports today that ABC is the latest TV network to jump into the IPTV pool, making a deal with Veoh Networks to make full episodes of "Lost" seasons 1, 2, and 3 (all in HD streaming, no less!), "Desperate Housewives," and "Ugly Betty," as well as highlight and game highlights from ESPN available.

Although the Internet is becoming crowded with both clips and complete TV shows from TV's past and present, ABC's approach differs from most of its competitors.

Proprietary Player for Better Quality

ABC uses a proprietary player it developed in conjunction with Move Networks, Inc. for both its AOL-hosted and new Veoh-hosted content. This player, which runs on Windows or MacOS and requires the user to install a plug-in, enables ABC to offer some shows, such as "Lost," in full-screen streaming HD.

Streaming HD looks great on a widescreen display, but as you might suspect, it requires a recent PC (dual-core CPU, 128MB of video RAM, 1GB of system RAM, 1300x770 screen resolution) and a 2Mbps or faster Internet connection for best results.

So, how much better does Streaming HD look in full-screen mode? Read on to find out for yourself, and to find out where to find dozens of your favorite TV shows online.