Verizon FiOS TV has launched Flex View, which lets subscribers to the telco's multichannel service rent or buy video-on-demand programming and watch it outside the home on a variety of portable devices, including laptops, smart phones and tablets.
The service launched Nov. 10 in most FiOS TV markets and will available across its footprint by the end of November.
Initially users can download for purchase or rent more than 1,400 movie titles on Flex View, with the amount of content growing to 2,000 titles by year-end. Subscribers can authorize Flex View for any combination of four devices plus FiOS TV per account.
Verizon is using Motorola's Medios software in delivering Flex View, though the telco said it also developed some custom code for the final product.
In 2011, the telco said, it plans to triple the number of titles -- to more than 6,000 -- including TV shows for rent or purchase. The service also will be expanded so that users can also use Flex View to access their personal photos video, music and other content.
"Verizon is taking the triple play to the triple screen, making on-the-go video programming quick and easy," noted Shawn Strickland, vice president of consumer strategy and planning for Verizon. "This is a valuable extension of our FiOS TV VOD service, enabling customers to rent or purchase video programming and enjoy it anytime, anywhere -- even outside of Verizon's service area."
Customers who opt to rent a title have up to 30 days following the purchase to play the movie, and will have 24 to 48 hours to watch it.
Verizon provided a preview of Flex View this summer. The service is separate from the FiOS TV Online, which provides video from Turner Broadcasting System, HBO, Cinemax and Epix to authenticated subscribers for no additional charge.
Todd Spangler contributed to this article.
