As mentioned before, some of the Networks are releasing a few TV Premier Pilots for download. There are also rumors that some networks leaked many premiers out on torrents earlier this Summer to create buzz.
To add to that, NBC is now offering free downloads of their popular shows via a new service they call NBC Direct. Shows such as The Office, 30 Rock, and Heroes will be available to download to your desktop using the NBC Direct software. The initial beta launch will provide users with a free subscription option allowing the viewer to pre-select their NBC shows and then those shows will auto-download to their computer once available (after the broadcast). DRM will be included on the downloads so the software will allow users to view each episode for up to one week before the shows "expire". Unfortunately there will be advertising included, but hey - it's certainly a step in the right direction. I'm beginning to think NBC understands their TV world is shifting towards the internet and toward TV watching flexibility due to Tivo's DVR's and Home Theater PC's.
UPDATE: Digital Alchemy reports this very useful addition to the story:
"However, if you're impatient for legal TV downloads and you have an Intel Centrino or Viiv-based PC, you can get VIP access to NBC show downloads right now."
Here's a list of the shows that will be available for download from the new NBC Direct Service
NBC Direct Shows - will be in beta testing beginning in October:
Heroes
The Office
Life
Bionic Woman
30 Rock
Friday Night Lights
Late Night with Conan O'Brien
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno."
If you want to see the new season's premiers now, here's a rundown of the new shows that are available now for download and their source:
The Bionic Woman - the first, pilot episode is available for free download now at Amazon Unbox
Chuck - the first, pilot episode is available for free download now at Amazon Unbox
Life - the first, pilot episode is available for free download now at Amazon Unbox
Journeyman - the first, pilot episode is available for free download now at Amazon Unbox
The Big Bang Theory - CBS has this first, pilot episode is available for free download now at Amazon Unbox & at iTunes
K-Ville - the first, pilot episode is available for free download now at iTunes or watch it streamed at TV.com
Prison Break - First season premier episode on iTunes
Many of these were reviewed by Davis Freeburg over at the Zatz Not Funny Blog
You might also be interested in this article: Fall 2007 TV Season Premiers: The Ultimate Guide
