SyncTV announced today that it has launched a private beta trial of its TV download service.

The service is based on open standards and is designed to work with Windows PCs, Apple computers and Linux operating systems, as well as with TVs and portable devices at some point in the future. Currently, the content can be played on up to five home devices.

“This beta period will allow us to fine-tune the system and get feedback on how we can improve the user experience,” said John Gildred, president of SyncTV. “We are going to be listening carefully to what our users are saying so we can give them the service they want and need.”

SyncTV said the service will provide home-theater-quality TV shows on an unlimited download basis. The minimum video quality will be comparable to the same content on a DVD, and the company will make HD shows available across the different channels. SyncTV will also have programming available in 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus surround sound.

The company is looking for volunteers for its beta test on its homepage.