All the VOD services will work essentially the same. Subscribers will be able to rent a video through their cable system and pay a rental fee comparable to a video store rental. The show will be available for at least 24 hours, even though you don't possess the tape. Software for the system is built into the digital cable boxes, and no extra equipment is needed. Cable companies will offer different packages and consumers can keep different accounts for each family member.
Viewers can also see the movie's trailer before they decide to rent it.
It's also suspected that some cable network shows will be available. The technology for VOD has been in place for a couple of years. What's holding it up is copyright issues. It's just a matter of getting the contracts for the product,'' said Time Warner spokeswoman Jennifer Mooney. Also, the studios are still trying to come up with a standard technology to prevent home taping, presumably far more convenient since only one VCR is needed.