Audio Video News

Historically, made-for-cable programming has been just that. Cable operators used it to differentiate their service from broadcast networks. But you just might start seeing it online as early as this summer. Even more surprising, cable operators are leading the effort to put cable programming on the internet.

According to Reuters: "Comcast is leading talks with programmers like Viacom Inc and Discovery Communications Inc, with Time Warner Cable, DirecTV and others involved. Their plans are at different stages, and cable operators will likely discuss putting cable programing online at an industry meeting this week according to people familiar with the plans." Comcast is calling the project OnDemand Online.

The catch is that you'd have to be a cable or satellite subscriber to get web (and possibly cell phone) access to cable programming. And access would last for only a limited period. However, there would be no additional charge aside from normal subscription fees. Advertising may defray part of the cost, though cable operators aren't expecting a windfall, given the modest proportions of the online ad business.

Of course, the big question is whether granting online access to cable programming would cannibalize the cable industry's longtime business model. Because the service is intended for existing subscribers only, that may not be much of a risk. And with cord cutting already taking its toll, the cable industry may be in a mood to experiment--lest it go the way of the record industry.