Validated video: Turner endorses Akimbo platform

Over the course of the past year you've seen quite a lot of discussion about video delivered via the Internet (for example, see Matthew Miller's "VIP boxes: Video-over-IP set-top devices debut" just two weeks back).

Indeed, the Internet is the one medium that might have the breadth to serve up specialty TV channels for any minority interest. I, for instance, will be the first subscriber for a channel that offers all Auburn University sports. Football is king, but give me softball or soccer when there's no game on the gridiron.

Although many people have passionate interests like mine, IP-video services won't likely survive on specialty channels alone. So it's gratifying to see Turner Broadcasting agreeing to provide its content via an independent IP service.

Turner just inked a deal with Akimbo Systems to provide content from CNN, CNNfn, Cartoon Network, and other Turner channels via the Akimbo service. The Akimbo technology includes a consumer set-top box—the Akimbo Player (below)—that has TiVo-like capabilities and can store 200 hours of video.

I covered Akimbo's launch at the Demo event in Scottsdale back in February (see "Star search: Judging the contestants at Demo 2004," Feb. 18, 2004), and have waited to see the company deliver on its promises. Akimbo claims it will start shipping the players and light up its service network in October. Right now, consumers can preorder the player for $229 and get three months of service for free. The regular service fees resemble TiVo's: $10 per month or $200 for the life of the player.

While the sleek Akimbo design and the company's business model seemed impressive at launch, the offering lacked the validation that Turner brings to the service. Before now the programming highlights included the Naked News, action sports offerings, a rugby channel, and lifestyle shows such as Great Chefs. Along with the Turner news, the company also announced commitments from Granada International (primarily UK-based TV programming), and Quicksilver Entertainment (more action sports).

I think the real question for Akimbo centers on whether it can provide enough content to satisfy the consumer at the stated price point. My guess is that the only way you will see things like ESPN delivered over IP will be when a cable MSO or telco decides to offer programming via an IP set-top box. Therefore, Akimbo needs to immediately broaden its program offerings. I might want to buy a channel from a source that doesn't have a deal with Akimbo. And consumers do have other options, such as sending video from their computer to a living-room-based media player over wired or wireless links. Here's hoping that Akimbo keeps its business model as open as possible.