Amazon's Unbox on Tivo goes live

New York (NY) - A new service that lets users stream downloaded content from Amazon to their Tivo has officially launched today. The free service is available now to all Tivo subscribers.

Once users are connected, all content from their Unbox account automatically shows up on their Tivo "now playing" list.

There is no price for the actual streaming service, but users need to be active subscribers to the Tivo service, which goes for $8 per month. A broadband connection is also required, which requires additional components not included with the Tivo.

Unbox downloads range from $2 for TV show episodes and old movies, to $15 for newly released films. It is trying to compete with other digital download stores like iTunes and Wal-Mart’s online video shop. The launch of the Unbox on Tivo service outpaces the more widely watched Apple TV, a $300 set-top box that will let users stream iTunes content to their TV.

The Unbox on Tivo service was first announced last month and went through beta testing by a select group of Tivo owners. Users who subscribe before April 30 will receive a $15 Amazon Unbox credit.