Sofa Cinema
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Downloads to rent frequently asked questions
Is there a way to test out a sample film download before trying the service?
Yes, there is, and we highly recommend you do so. We want you to ensure that the quality is satisfactory before purchasing a movie. Download sample film. You should not proceed to purchase a download unless you can confirm that this test works.
Do I need any special software to download and play films?
You need to have Windows Media Player 10 (or version 9 with version 10 Windows Digital Rights Management) and if you have Windows XP, you must have Windows Service Pack 2 installed. These can be downloaded from the Microsoft website. Alternative platforms are Windows 2000 and Windows 2003 Server. If you want to try a sample download first, go to Download sample film.
If I download a film now, do I have to watch it right away or can I watch it later?
You have from 5 to 7 days to watch the film from the second it finishes downloading. This varies from film to film, but the time allowed will be displayed in manage downloads.
If you start to watch a film, this time frame decreases, but again, this will be shown clearly under manage downloads.
How much does it cost?
The cost varies, but will be displayed clearly against each title.
What download quality should I choose?
High quality will simply take longer to download than low quality. If you have a very quick connection speed, you may wish to download a high quality film.
How long will a film take to download?
This will be displayed before you are asked to confirm purchase. It varies depending upon the size of the film and your connection speed.
If I download a film, can I watch it even if I'm not connected to the internet?
You must be connected to the internet when you begin to watch the film in order for the licence to be verified. However, after the licence has been verified, you may disconnect from the internet and the film will continue to play.
If I stop viewing the movie, how can I resume at a later time?
As you have downloaded the film, you can stop and start watching it as many times as you like within the time allowed. The time allowed to watch the film after you have started playing it varies, but will always be displayed in manage downloads.
Who do I contact if I experience problems viewing the movie?
Please visit the help centre, where you can contact customer services.
Downloads to own frequently asked questions
How much does a downloads to own film cost and what do I get?
Bundles cost from as little as £9.99. For this, as well as being able to download the film direct to your computer, you will also be able to download a copy of the film to transfer onto a portable video player (such as one of the compatible players on our list).
Please note that Download-to-own titles from some studios, and for certain offers, do not come with a copy of the DVD for you to keep. Please check the contents shown for the title before purchasing your download.
If your bundle comes with a copy of the DVD, we'll post you a disc for you to keep!
What are the minimum system requirements?
At present, the download is not compatible with Macs. The minimum system requirements are:
- Microsoft Windows XP
- Playing back the PC version requires Windows 2000 or Windows 2003 server with Windows Media Player 9 or 10. (Note that Windows Media Player 9 may require a short security update to be downloaded and installed prior to use)
- Transferring to a portable device requires Windows Media Player 10 and Windows XP with Service Pack 2.
- Broadband internet connection recommended
- Sufficient space on your hard drive
- Sound card / speakers
You can download the Service Pack and Windows Media Player from the Microsoft website.
How to I transfer the film to a portable device?
To transfer the files to a portable device you can follow the following steps:
- First download the “portable version” from the website.
- Next switch on your portable device and connect it to your computer as shown in the device’s manual. This normally involves a cable connected to the USB port on your computer.
- Once you've done this open the file in Windows Media Player and enter your username and password when prompted.
- Then, once the file is playing, right click on the “now playing” list and select “Add to sync list” from the menu.
- Next click on the “sync” tab at the top of the screen, or select “File > CDs and Devices > Synchronize...” to move to the synchronisation screen.
- Your film should be shown in the “Sync list” - if it isn’t try step 4 again.
- Now ensure your device is switched on and connected, click “Start sync” and the file should start to synchronise. If it works you should see a “progress bar” under the “status” heading.
- Depending on your device, the length of the film, and the speed of your computer the synchronisation process can take up to fifteen minutes.
Note that some players will come with their own software, while the above steps describe synchronisation using Windows Media Player. If your would prefer to use the software that comes with your player please refer to its own instruction manual for directions.
If you still get issues go to the Helpcentre.
Do I get the bonus material and original DVD packaging?
Please note that Download-to-own titles from some studios, and for certain offers, do not come with a copy of the DVD for you to keep. Please check the contents shown for the title before purchasing your download.
If your bundle contains a copy of the DVD, please allow up to 10 working days for delivery. Note that the DVD bonus material and original packaging is not included.
Which portable video devices are compatible with the service?
The service is deisgned to work with Windows playsforsure devices These include:
- Archos - AV 700
- Creative Labs - Zen Vision M, Zen Vision
When do I get my DVD copy?
Please note that Download-to-own titles from some studios, and for certain offers, do not come with a copy of the DVD for you to keep. Please check the contents shown for the title before purchasing your download.
If a DVD is included, it will be sent to you upon purchase of the download 'bundle' and will come in a branded envelope. Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery. Note that the DVD bonus material and original packaging is not included.
If it has still not arrived after this time, please contact customer services.
Still having problems? Visit our troubleshooting.