Apple on Thursday expanded the movie offerings on the iTunes Store to include HD downloads. Usually, HD movies were available only for rental before. iTunes and iPod users can now enjoy the fruits of HD movies as offered by Apple’s iTune store. HD movies on iTunes will cost US$19.99 to buy and Apple’s also promising movie rentals for $4.99 within 30 days after new releases. Apple launched an HD page on iTunes, featuring about a dozen films available immediately, such as Transporter 3, The Spirit, and The Punisher: War Zone. The HD movies can be played on a Mac, PC and on widescreen TV with Apple TV, as well as in standard definition on the iPhone or iPod with video. Purchases will come with both an HD file and an iPod / iPhone-ready SD file.

Apple isn’t alone in trying to entice people with HD content. Netflix and Blockbuster also offer HD movies online.

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