For several years, many television and technology companies have been developing free video-on-demand services with all the determination -- and uncertain futures -- of oil prospectors. Now their free video-on-demand channels are expanding, seeking more viewers and asking advertisers to help pay the way. "The consumer is already years ahead of where we in the media industry are." Music Choice executives said they were optimistic, largely because the advent of digital video recorders and services like TiVo had spurred many advertisers to re-examine their usual methods. On-Demand Channels: A Niche Frontier | 
