Mark Cuban is using peer-to-peer technology to distribute free downloads of high-definition video from his HDNet network. The initiative will begin by offering a special 20-minute program of highlights from the network's exclusive live coverage of the launch of the Discovery space shuttle. HDNet partnered with peer-to-peer delivery specialists Red Swoosh and online storage and technology company Box.net on the promotional project, which is designed to expose the widest possible audience to HDNet programming and high-definition content in general. "The combination of RSS delivery from Box.net and Red Swoosh P2P technology, particularly their backend services, has created a new opportunity to test the delivery of promotional high-definition HDNet content to those who might not otherwise get HDNet," Cuban said. "As unique opportunities come up to highlight our content, we will use this great delivery platform." The content is delivered in 1080i resolution and Windows Media Video HD format using Red Swoosh's secure peer-to-peer technology. Users can obtain this and all future content by visiting www.hd.net/downloads and signing on to receive HDNet's BetaFeed powered by Box.net.
The subscription business model has been one of the big success stories of the Internet era. From Netflix to Microsoft 365, more and more companies are moving towards recurring revenue streams by having customers pay for access rather than product ownership. The subscription economy cuts across many industries -- such as streaming services, software, media, consumer products, and even transportation with the rise of mobility-as-a-service. A new market study by Juniper Research highlights the central challenge facing subscription businesses -- reducing customer churn to build a loyal subscriber installed base. Subscription Model Market Development The Juniper market study provides an in-depth analysis of the subscription business model market landscape and associated customer retention strategies. A key finding is that impending government regulations will make it easier for customers to cancel subscriptions, likely leading to increased voluntary churn rates. The study report cites the