Akimbo, which launched its IPTV-based Internet-to-television VOD service last year, is attempting to find more customers, some of whom may opt for its “After Dark” programming.
Akimbo features $1.99 videos from an array of well-known adult brands — Adam & Eve, Hustler TV, AdultDVDEmpire, Gamelink, Playgirl TV, TEN and Danni’s Hard Drive.
The San Mateo-Calif.-based company previously offered its service only through its Akimbo box for $199 and a $10 monthly subscription.
But next Tuesday, Akimbo will show up as an option in the Online Spotlight section of Media Center PCs. After an initial two-week trial, viewers still have to pay the monthly fee, with additional fees for some programs, but they won’t have to buy the box.
Because the Media Center is able to stream content to Xbox and Xbox 360 consoles acting as extenders, game players can view Akimbo programs anywhere in their house.
According to a recent report from Endpoint Technologies, Media Center shipments will double to about 5 million units this year and double again in 2006.
“Media Center is a perfect platform for Akimbo and a great example of how TV and the Internet are combining,” Akimbo CEO Joshua Goldman said. “Media Center owners will now have access to thousands of new shows and can experience the freedom of being in charge of what they watch.”
Besides adult features, Akimbo's collection of on-demand video includes titles from the Luxury Channel, Naked News, IFILM, Discovery and Wine TV.