Hulu starts paid service, under pressure to show profit

Online video site Hulu has launched a $9.99-per-month paid section, under pressure from its media company parents to generate a profit.

A new tab opened up on the site directing users to Hulu Plus, a section that shows current season episodes of "Glee," "The Office," "House," and other shows from broadcasters ABC, Fox and NBC. The service also allows viewing of multiple back seasons of shows.

The new site is initially available by invitation only on computers, Apple Inc.'s iPad, iPhones and on TV using certain Samsung Blu-ray players. It's coming soon to Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3, and there are plans to launch on Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox early next year.

A free, ad-supported version of Hulu remains available, but with only recent episodes of shows.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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