Akimbo unveils download-to-own video

Akimbo Systems, whose set-top box lets TV viewers watch niche videos from the Net, said Monday that it will begin selling select digital programming to customers in early 2006. Akimbo also said it now includes programming from Discovery Networks.

In a feature to the Akimbo service called "download to own," owners of the system will be able to buy digital copies of various music videos, concerts, fitness programs, children's shows and independent films and then burn a copy of the shows to a DVD using the Windows Media Format. Akimbo did not specify titles or costs. The company's player and remote control are priced at $199.99, and the video service costs $9.99 a month. Current Akimbo subscribers can view some archived programming free, and can rent other select premium content.