Apple Sets Out for New Frontier: Video

Baker also was impressed with the new remote-control software. Baker envisions Apple possibly putitng the same software, called Front Row, on other models and incorporating a TV tuner on those computers for a full multimedia experience.

Contrasting Front Row with Microsoft's rival offering, Baker said "Front Row is Media Center PC done right. It's simple."

Apple representatives declined to say whether Front Row would be made available for other Apple computers. The new remote control will work with both the iMac and iPod accessories, but Apple wouldn't say if it would work with other Apple computers.

The move also represents an effort by Apple to get ahead of Sony and other rivals that have begun to incorporate video playback into their handheld music players and game machines.

Rumors had been flying in recent weeks that Apple would introduce a new video-playing version of its iPod, and Jobs didn't disappoint. The company is replacing top-of-the-line 20-gigabyte and 60-GB iPod models with new 30-GB and 60-GB versions that are thinner, have larger screens and will play videos.

The company is offering the products, which will start shipping next week, at the same prices -- about $300 and $400, respectively -- as their predecessors.

Jobs' onslaught continued. He announced a new version of iTunes in which video is a central new feature. Customers will be able to purchase some 2,000 music videos, episodes of five different Disney(DIS Quote)-owned television shows and six Pixar short films for $1.99 each. The television shows include Lost and Desperate Housewives and some lesser-known fare.

Disney CEO Robert Iger, who was on hand for the announcement, said the TV shows that Disney is offering is just the start. He sees the company offering more content online, not only through iTunes but through other services as well. However, he declined to say if or when Disney might offer its vast library of movies.

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