While some video providers are moving away from Google TV, Roku and the Playbook, and Netflix still has yet to officially release its movie streaming app on any Android devices, the Epix channel is going all in. Following its "Big on Any Screen" slogan, it will roll out apps on a slew of devices over the second quarter beyond its current Flash player. The Google TV portal is already up and running as seen above and apps are on the way for "Android tablets and phones from HTC, LG and Motorola" -- we've pinged to see if this will be device exclusive but haven't received a response yet -- the BlackBerry Playbook, Samsung TVs and Blu-ray players and Roku streaming players. Not listed in the press release is anything iOS, but Epix confirmed it is working on an app that is waiting for Apple's approval. Not familiar with the channel? It has over 3,000 movies from Paramount, Lionsgate and MGM plus original programs and live events that is available via your cable or satellite TV provider and launched with an HBO Go-style online component. Verizon FiOS is apparently on deck to help push the new apps, check out the rest of the details in the press release after the break.
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EPIX Expands Availability across Consumer Electronic and Mobile Devices
New Apps Enable Authenticated Subscribers to Stream 3,000 EPIX Movies and Original Programming on Over One Hundred Devices
EPIX to Partner with Distributors in Campaign to Use Apps to Attract New, Authenticated Subscribers
New York, NY, April 27, 2011 – Continuing to expand availability wherever viewers are consuming video, EPIX, the premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service, today unveiled apps for download on over one hundred consumer electronic and mobile devices including Android™-powered tablets and phones from a variety of manufacturers such as Motorola®, HTC® and LG®; Samsung® TVs and Blu-Ray™ players; Google TV™; Roku® streaming players; and the BlackBerry® PlayBook™. This is the next phase of EPIX's multi-platform growth strategy as EPIX continues to expand its leadership in authentication and multi-screen entertainment.
All EPIX apps are free and allow subscribers who are authenticated via cable, satellite and telco distributors to access over 3,000 EPIX movies plus original programming and extras on demand anywhere there is an Internet connection.
As part of the launch campaign for the apps, EPIX is working with distributors to expand the universe of authenticated subscribers via sampling opportunities among heavy consumers of online video. The EPIX apps will provide all consumers free access to EPIX's robust offering of movie trailers, interviews and short form video content. Movie fans will be offered limited free trials to watch EPIX movies and original programs and EPIX will connect those who sample the service to affiliated distributors to subscribe.
"Our business was created to take advantage of the changing landscape, understanding how consumers are using technology, and we have been able to successfully work with our partners to create new ways for authenticated subscribers to access premium entertainment when, where and how they want," said EPIX President and CEO Mark Greenberg. "Movies have been a key driver of every new entertainment platform and we are excited to tap the power of movies to engage online viewers and attract new subscribers for our affiliated distributors."
Among the providers to offer the EPIX apps at launch will be Verizon FiOS, which was first to launch EPIX across multiple platforms and continues to be a leader in content distribution over advanced technologies.
"Verizon FiOS subscribers enjoy a steadily growing lineup of programming, with the freedom and convenience of services like Flex View and FiOS TV Online, as well as providers like EPIX who are making their content available on multiple devices," said Terry Denson, vice president of content strategy and acquisition for Verizon. "We are happy that the new EPIX apps will further expand the choices and accessibility for our FiOS TV customers."
EPIX is currently available on Google TV and will roll out additional apps in the coming weeks throughout the second quarter of 2011, delivering an assortment of new hit releases and classic titles from the studio libraries of Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate, MGM, and more, including Star Trek, Iron Man 2, Paranormal Activity 1 and 2, classic franchises like Saw, Tyler Perry's Madea, James Bond and Rocky and EPIX original comedy, music and sports specials featuring top talent like Craig Ferguson, Usher and Lindsey Vonn.
Concluded Greenberg, "We look forward to the continued work with our distribution partners in the development of more great apps for all emerging devices and platforms to provide maximum convenience and value for current and potential subscribers alike."
About EPIX
EPIX, a joint venture between Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B), its Paramount Pictures unit, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) and Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), is a next-generation premium entertainment channel, video-on-demand and online service launched on October 30, 2009. With access to more than 15,000 motion pictures spanning the vast libraries of its partners and other studios, EPIX provides a powerful entertainment experience with more feature films on demand and online and more HD movies than any other service. It is the only premium service providing its entire monthly line-up of new Hollywood titles, classic feature films, original series, music and comedy specials through the linear channel, video-on-demand and online at EpixHD.com, the leading online destination for movies. EPIX has made the commitment to deliver the industry's most expansive online collection of movies, making more than 3,000 titles available on EpixHD.com. The service is available to over 30 million homes nationwide through distribution partners including Charter Communications, Cox Communications, DISH Network, Mediacom Communications, NCTC, Suddenlink Communications and Verizon FiOS.
For more information about EPIX, go to www.EpixHD.com.
