Broadcast Networks Jump on iTunes HD

CBS and Fox have joins NBC and ABC in offering televisions shows on Apple's iTunes store in high-definition.

Apple has announced that Fox and CBS are now offering high-definition television shows for sale via the iTunes store, joining ABC and NBC. High-definition shows joining the iTunes lineup include installments of CBS’s CSI franchise along with Numb3rs and NCIS; Fox shows available in HD on iTunes will includqe Bones, House, and Prison Break.

Tallied up, iTunes now carries more than 70 primetime shows from major broadcast networks, along with television programs from cable networks like Sci-Fi, Comedy Central, Bravo, Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, HBO, Showtime, and more.

The new HD shows retain iTunes’ existing pricing: high-definition shows are $2.99 per episode (many available with season pass option so users can purchase a whole season at a discount). Standard definition shows remain $1.99 each.

“We’ve got an incredible Fall 2008 TV lineup with over 70 primetime comedies and dramas, including many of the most popular shows on TV in stunning HD,” said Apple’s VP for Internet Services Eddy Cue, in a statement. “With over 200 million episodes sold, iTunes customers have proven they love watching television on their computer, iPod, iPhone and TV with Apple TV.”

To date, Apple claims to have sold more than 200 million TV episodes via iTunes.