noirExtreme

On Demand Media are definitely not "struggling to make sense" —as their tagline seems to claim— with their overview of distributing video over the internet.

It is sometimes refreshing to have the basics retold to us so that we can get back to the bigger picture once in a while.

In this particular case I was struck again by the apparent lack of developments around the Download-as-you-watch model. This model allows users to start viewing while the download is taking place; with sufficient bandwidth (which, unlike for streaming, need not be stable), this yields an instant-gratification experience.

Wouldn't that be a great way for Telcos and ISPs to start delivering video content (even in HD) without the massive investment and doubtful return associated with the set up of a real time video network? Besides news and sports there are very few programs for which viewers would not be ready to wait a few minutes in exchange for highly flexible programming.