ABC was the first network, by my memory, to really embrace online distribution for their programming.  I remember when they first announced that they would release shows on iTunes and also that they would stream them for free online.  The idea seemed revolutionary at the time, but now it’s strange when a network doesn’t stream their programming *cough*FOX*cough*.

Now, Multichannel News is reporting that in July, ABC.com will begin to stream select shows in HD format. 

ABC.com’s HD channel will feature a limited amount of content in from such series as Lost, Desperate Housewives, Grey’s Anatomy and Ugly Betty. When ABC launches its new season in September, the site will offer a “more robust” HD lineup.

I hope that the industry will follow ABC like it has in the past.  I can only get ABC and CBS in HD in my area, so I would love to be able to check out ‘Heroes’ or ‘24′ in HD online.