Comcast is expanding its on-demand programming and launching an internet catch-up service.

The US cable provider aims to add thousands of movies, particularly in high definition, to its video on demand service in coming years, as part of a project codenamed Infinity.

Derek Harrar, senior vice-president of video services, said: "Twelve to 18 months after that we want to have 6,000 movies available, versus the 1,300 that we are offering now. We are convinced this is the future of TV."

The company plans to increase its VOD capacity by putting library servers in various locations around the US.

It is also launching an internet TV catch-up service called Fancast. Eventually subscribers will be able to programme digital video recorders from the website.

Comcast chief executive Brian Roberts said: "Project Infinity builds on our commitment to bring more content to people across all platforms at home and on the go."