One of the big pieces of news, that was somewhat overdue, was the addition of HD TV shows (iTunes link). The HD episodes cost a buck more ($2.99 vs. $1.99 for standard def episodes), but what Steve didn’t mention during today’s event is that $2.99 includes both the HD version of the show and the standard def version. When you sync an iPod/iPhone iTunes will transfer the standard def version for on the go viewing.
The HD TV shows are in 720p, and many include 5.1 channel Dolby Digital surround sound. Note that you need a Mac with a dual-core 2.0 GHz or better processor to enjoy TV shows in HD, along with at least 1 GB of RAM.
File sizes, as you might expect, are a little larger than standard def episodes. I downloaded an episode of Battlestar Galactica the the HD version clocked in at 1.38 GB while the standard def episode is a petite 521 MB.
I downloaded the free HD episode of Battlestar Galactica (s4 e1) and it is only about 620 megs. And it's beautiful. I have no idea what's going on with that file size.
Oops, I looked at the wrong file for the size. 1.3G is right...
Hehehe...I think Scott was trying to make us think he purchased the episode of Battlestar Galactica, because he left out "free", but then Jeremy busted him.