Disney-ABC TV Group Set To Stream HD Content Online

The Disney-ABC TV Group announced that beginning this summer, it will stream content in true high-definition resolution on ABC.com.

“We are excited to be the first in the industry to stream HD video available on the Web, providing ABC.com users with an unprecedented online viewing experience,” said Anne Sweeney, co-chair, Disney Media Networks, and president, Disney-ABC Television Group. “By continuing to listen to our audience and enhancing our digital offerings with the best technology available, we further strengthen their relationship to our brands.”

The initiative will launch as a beta test in July, with the broadband player featuring true HD 1280 x 720 resolution of a limited number of episodes of hit ABC shows. When the new television season launches in September, the online HD programming lineup will be ramped up. At that time, the full episode player will be expanded to include national news and local content. The new player will also feature local ads that are more relevant to individual users.

“This is all about innovating and creating ‘what’s next’ to give consumers the best experience as they watch our content, regardless of viewing platform,” said Albert Cheng, executive vice president, digital media, Disney-ABC Television Group. “With the advancements in display devices and the prevalence of hardware with the processing capabilities to handle this technology, offering true HD content online is a natural.”