14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has a reputation for getting rid of the old and doing new things, a reputation that it keeps. Much like the initial deal with ABC that changed everything by offering episodes of TV shows, Apple is yet again thinking different.
This time, it's ABC Family's upcoming series Kyle XY in the middle of it all. ABC is going to use the iTunes Music Store as a promotional launch pad for the new show.
Starting with the 20th of June, a full six day before the show actually makes its debut on ABC Family at 8 p.m., users will be able to download the pilot and watch it on their computer, iPod or TV from the iTMS. After June 27, episodes of the show will be available for purchase at the usual price of $1.99 per episode.
To support the free iTunes preview, ABC Family will be making heavy use of the media, including on-air promos, a flash ad on its own Web site, radio spots, banners of aol.com and msn.com and a print ad in Rolling Stone magazine.
"A free preview on iTunes is a fantastic way to build buzz and increase awareness of 'Kyle XY'," said Paul Lee, president, ABC Family in a statement. "It gives our aggressive tease and reveal marketing campaign a major broadband element, that will help drive viewers to the premiere on the 26th."