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SBS launches Video On Demand service

Public broadcaster SBS has launched a free video on demand service.

The service, which can be found here, is an upgraded version of SBS's previous, more basic video system, and offers viewers an extensive back catalogue of programs, live streaming of sport events, and, for the first time, full-length feature films.

"SBS On Demand has been developed as more than just a regular catch-up service – it's a real step forward in evolution," said SBS Managing Director Michael Ebeid in a statement.

More than 90 per cent of SBS's prime time TV content is available on the video player, with the archives featuring more than 20,000 items including popular SBS programs such as Immigration Nation and Go Back To Where You Came From.

Videos can be shared with friends via social media and users that sign up for an account are able to subscribe to a series and have new episodes added automatically to their playlists.

SBS On Demand joins the ranks of the VOD services of other free-to-air channels, including ABC's iview and Seven's Plus7.

Like SBS, Plus7 allows viewers to store their favourite shows in one place and gives them the opportunity to receive alerts when new episodes are available.

ABC's iview is not only available online, but also on Playstation 3 and Sony Bravia Devices. The free ABC iview app for iPad stores both prime time programs and exclusive content.

Channel Nine and Channel Ten do not have specific on demand services, but have episodes of network favourites available on their websites.