Lovefilm has announced the launch of high-definition (HD) streaming, giving LOVEFiLM Instant members the potential for crystal clear viewing. This follows hot on the heels of the news yesterday that Lovefilm had signed a a new multi-year digital license agreement with NBC Universal International Television Distribution, providing its members exclusive streaming access to titles from Universal Pictures during the second pay window.   

The HD functionality, available from today in the UK and Germany, will allow members of LOVEFiLM - Europe's largest subscription service instantly streaming films and TV series over the internet and sending DVDs and games by post - to stream top quality films and TV series on demand and for no extra charge in HDTV resolutions up to 1080p.

LOVEFiLM members in the UK, using PC or Mac, will enjoy content in full 1080p high definition, while members using their Xbox 360 or Samsung and LG connected HDTVs will enjoy 720p resolution. In Germany, HD content will be available initially on PC and Mac in full 1080p high definition.

The catalogue of HD films available to LOVEFiLM members will expand over the coming weeks and months. In the UK titles will include teen sensation The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, family favourite Gnomeo and Juliet and British comedy Four Lions. Top US TV dramas including LOST and Ghost Whisperer will also be available alongside a whole host of British titles, including the BBC's popular documentaries Human Planet and David Attenborough's critically acclaimed Planet Earth.

Jim Buckle, MD of LOVEFiLM, commented:
"LOVEFiLM is the number one consumer choice for subscription film and TV series streaming in Europe. The introduction of HD quality content further strengthens the offering and marks another key milestone in delivering our members the best possible service with exceptional value."

Films and TV series available in HD will automatically stream with the improved quality where an internet connection can support it. For 720p streaming members will require a minimum internet connection of 4mbps, while those with connections of 12mbps or higher will enjoy full 1080p where possible.