Amazon.com launches TV, movie service - Boston.com

This news comes just day's ahead of an expected announcement by Apple of a similar service. One major limitation of Amazon's service is that it only works on Windows PCs and devices that play the Windows Media format. Now the ball's on Apple's court.

Amazon.com Inc. launched a digital video downloading service Thursday, ending months of speculation that the Internet retailer would be getting into the online TV and movie business.

The service, dubbed Amazon Unbox, will offer thousands of television shows, movies and other videos from more than 30 studios and networks, the company said.

TV shows will cost $1.99 per episode, and most movies will go for $7.99 to $14.99; movies can also be rented for $3.99.

Amazon.com launches TV, movie service - Boston.com