Amazon Unbox is a digital video download service that reunites title catalogs from over 30 global studios and network partners while delivering DVD quality pictures, states Amazon.com in a press release. Amazon.com has made the video content, encoded at 2,500 kilobits per second, through the VC-1 Advanced Profile codec, available via progressive download. The service delivers an additional version of the file downloaded optimized for Windows Media-compatible portable devices, at no extra cost.

"Amazon Unbox offers TV and movie enthusiasts a fast, convenient way to watch thousands of their favorite videos from around the world," stated Bill Carr, Amazon.com's vice president of digital media. "Now Amazon.com customers can choose to get videos delivered to their doorstep from Amazon's DVD store or choose Amazon Unbox and download DVD-quality picture movies or television shows to their PC."

Amazon.com has also introduced the Unbox RemoteLoad technology providing customers with the possibility to order titles from any Internet connected platform and download the video content on a target PC.

"Amazon has built the ultimate solution for anyone who has ever had a friend or coworker tell them that they missed a great TV show last night," added Carr. "Now customers can visit Amazon.com while at work and download DVD-quality TV shows and movies to their PC at home or wherever it is most convenient for them to watch."

Movie titles are available for rental for $3.99, while purchasing prices range from $7.99 to $14.99. Television series episodes can be acquired for $1.99 per item.