Google selling out (TV that is)

Getting all downloaded shows from one source, like iTunes, is convenient, but it doesn't encourage competition. Paying $2 per show is expensive compared to buying the whole season on DVD when it comes out; especially since the iTunes downloads aren't the right quality for watching on a TV screen. I'd like to see a model like A la carte cable, where I could subscribe to the shows I like and download full-size versions of them every week. There could be advertising too if that would sweeten the deal for the networks.

Actually, what I would like to see is Google as another affiliate. For example, make the entire CBS schedule available via Google, complete with the national advertising and allow Google to inject their own advertising in place of the normal local adverts that we get. Give the viewers the content for free, and make the money on the advertising. It's an intriguing idea because you would need to log in with your Google account to download a show, and given the Google database that has tracked your likes and interests they could target the advertising much more effectively. The problem with the iTunes model of selling episodes for $2 just after they air is that it really isn't that much trouble to record the shows to VCR, DVR, or PC, so there is little incentive to actually purchase them at what amounts to a premium price.

Free, advertising supported, shows also help with the piracy boogieman. If I share an episode CSI with my pal in Alabama they are still getting the advertisements, and that is one download that Google/CBS doesn't have to pony up bandwidth for.

I don't care how we get there, I just want to be able to cancel my cable. I agree a one stop shop for all my TV needs is nicer, but a handful stop shop is worth it if it gets the job done.