Before the launch of the Apple iPad, there were intense speculations as to the provision of major television networks in the U.S planning to get in deals with Apple Inc. so as to provide their respective television shows on the iPad. However, slowly almost all the networks backed off, leaving only ABC who went on to create an iPad application, that enabled the users to watch ABC TV shows on their iPads, free of cost.

Now the television network has again stated its optimism in regards to the iPad application has said that, the company’s business model for the iPad is proving to be successful and in ten days since the launch of the iPad, the ABC application had already witnessed 205,000 downloads. Also, the Walt Disney Co. owned ABC network is also thrilled by the huge influx of users who have already viewed at least part of 650,000 television episodes using the app, that has led to million of ad impressions. As of now, some of the biggest names across various verticals have already assumed the role of advertisers on iPad. These companies include Clorox, Lexus, AT&T, Heineken, Sears and Target and Walt Disney is also among the advertisers featured on iPad and the company so far has been airing 30-second advertisement spots. However, Disney has stated that, in the near future it would be airing even more interactive ads, similar to the ones present on the company’s web portals.

The ABC application for iPad shows the most of the network’s shows absolutely free of cost, with the addition of five 30 second commercials each hour. Furthermore, the iPad application also provides the users with a direct link to the Apple iTunes store, from where the users can even purchase the desired episodes.

Via Wall Street Journal