All 4oD content moves to web

Channel 4 is to close the download version of 4oD, its video on demand service, and stream its archive content on the web using the same Flash-based application employed for its catch-up offering.

Archive content including Channel 4 classics Queer as Folk and Drop the Dead Donkey will be added to the Flash catch-up platform starting next month, and all programmes will be available free of charge. The Windows-only 4oD desktop application, which distributed downloadable shows using Kontiki's peer-to-peer file sharing solution, will close after all content has transferred to the web.

"We were the first broadcaster to launch a comprehensive video-on-demand service in 2006 and since that time 4oD has become one of the UK’s most popular VOD brands," said Jon Gisby, Channel 4's director of future media and technology. "The addition of archived content to 4oD on channel4.com means we will be the only UK broadcaster to have all of our content available online. We are extremely proud of the new and improved service and think the combination of fantastic content that’s easy to find and view will prove a compelling service for all users."