C4 To Launch Video On Demand Service

Channel 4 is gearing up to provide a video on demand (VOD) service featuring UK commissioned programmes, but only after the long-running new media rights dispute with Pact has been resolved.

Reporting C4's 2005 annual results, chief executive Andy Duncan said a C4-branded VOD service would be available via PCs and through TV. The service would offer catch up episodes, previews and archive programmes.

"We hope to have all our commissioned programming and the best of our acquired programming available," Duncan said.

First though C4 needs to agree a new media rights window with Pact. They will also have to negotiate a separate rights deal with major US studios like Buena Vista International Television to be able to offer US series like Lost and Desperate Housewives.

What's not clear is whether the C4 VOD service will be funded through pay-per-view, subscription or advertising models. Duncan said: "We're very much evaluating that - it is party linked to Pact and the new media negotiations going on at the moment."

The C4 chief would not be moved on whether the channel was still committed to a 30-day exclusive window or if the broadcaster's stance on that was softening.

C4 also renewed extra capacity calls. The channel wants the government to gift more capacity as an indirect form of assistance. Chairman Luke Johnson said: "We want to be able to continue to expand and innovate rather than stagnate, which is the risk if we don't get support."