This IDC study provides an analysis of the U.S. digital cable video on demand (VOD) market and a forecast of VOD-enabled subscribers and VOD revenue through 2008. The analysis addresses the key facets of the VOD market including movies on demand, subscription video on demand (SVOD), and free on demand (FOD). The evolution of operator expectations for the service is discussed, as is how the cable and content communities are working to improve the VOD experience. Also addressed are competing on-demand services, market drivers and inhibitors, and emerging opportunities as VOD becomes more robust. The forecast provides data for VOD subscriber growth and penetration and revenue for à la carte title and subscription purchases.

"Cable remains committed to video on demand," said Greg Ireland, senior analyst in IDC's Consumer Markets program. "VOD has become increasingly diversified with a wide range of paid, subscription, and free content. Although SVOD and FOD are generating the bulk of VOD usage, the revenue opportunity is growing as consumers become more comfortable with the service."