Amazon Unit, Television Networks in DVD Deals

Amazon.com Inc. said its subsidiary, CustomFlix Labs Inc., had signed deals with television networks including NBC Universal that could let them sell DVDs of TV shows soon after they air.

They initially call for CustomFlix to sell DVDs of archived shows with a niche audience, such as NBC’s “Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show” and “Antiques Roadshow” from PBS.

But an Amazon spokesman said the networks could choose to offer DVDs of television shows within 24 hours of the first airing, much like Apple Computer Inc.’s iTunes offers popular shows such as “Lost” for sale online soon after they air.