DISNEY - NEW ITUNES SOFTWARE TO BE RELEASED AHEAD OF MOVIE RENTALS

Apple is expected to release a new version of its iTunes software next week that will allow users to download movies to "rent" -- that is, to be viewed during a limited time period. The software release is expected to coincide with an announcement by Apple Chairman Steve Jobs that his company has signed deals with Warner Bros. and Paramount allowing movie rentals on Apple's iTunes online store. Apple had previously indicated that it had signed deals with Disney and 20th Century Fox. NBC Universal, which previously withdrew its product from iTunes, is not expected to return. Sony, which supports its own PSP player, is also not expected to come aboard. Apple is expected to price rentals at $3.99.

11/01/2008