Hulu has finally announced its long-awaited subscription service that allows users to view an expanded array of conent on multiple platforms, according to a note posted on the video portal’s site Tuesday.
The launch of the new pay component marks a significant milestone in the migration of broadcast TV content to the Internet, with networks including ABC, Fox and NBC bypassing the broadband ambitions of cable companies and selling their wares directly to subscribers.
For a monthly fee of $9.99, the News Corp./NBC Universal/Disney-backed video site will offer a library featuring content from over 100 providers and featuring about 2,000 TV episodes from series including "Family Guy," "Glee," "Modern Family" and "The Office," all shown in 720p high-definition.
Hulu CEO Jason Kilar, writing on his blog, said the free version of Hulu is not being replaced by the so-called Hulu Plus. However, in addition to being able to view shows on devices beyond their PC, paid subscribers will have access to a greater breadth of content.
"For almost all of the current broadcast showss on our services, Hulu Plus offers the full season," Kilar wrote. "Every single episode of the current season will be available, not just a handful of trailing episodes."
Like the free service, Hulu Plus will have advertising, with two marketers, Nissan and Bud Light, signed on to the introduction of the service.
Notably, Hulu Plus users will be able to view shows and movies on a range of devices, including everthing from Samsung Internet-connected TVs to Blu-ray players to Sony PlayStation game consoles to Apple mobile devices.
Hulu plans to incorporate other platforms in the near future.
Hulu will use an "invitation-only" model to introduce the new service, allowing select Hulu users to check it out. Users can request an invitation, however.
