While you were downloading “Sex and the City” reruns from iTunes, CinemaNow was getting busy with Microsoft. CinemaNow—remember them?

The online movie service now has over 3,400 selections available via Windows Media Center. That means you can watch “Juno” in an instant, without special channels or a set-top. Just access the Online Media channel found on the Windows interface.

Add one of those Extenders for Windows Media Center (there’s your extra component if you’re itching for it), and you can stream the magic to your TV.

CinemaNow’s download-to-own movies are priced from $10 to $20, with TV shows and music videos available for 2 bucks. One note is that even though you are paying DVD prices, you can only view purchased content on up to three devices. However, there is a burn-to-DVD option, with titles ranging $9 to $15. Pay-Per-View movies run between $3 and $4. Most titles are available the same day as the DVD release.

Other highlights of Windows Media Center include access to Starz Entertainment’s VONGO and MovieLink, as well as Microsoft’s TV, Internet TV Beta, and Online Media features.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.