As with so many things, sex spurred the union between HBO and iTunes... as in the upcoming "Sex and the City" movie premiere. This was no shotgun partnership, however, as the premium channel negotiated higher prices (and a higher cut) than the usual $1.99 Apple offering.

The deal likely won't cut into its subscriber base since, according to Portfolio, shows will become available only after their DVD release. Nor are all seasons available: "The Wire" finished its fifth and final season, but the HBO iTunes store currently sells season 1.

Considering the crime drama ranks in the top 10 searches for HBO shows, the cable channel should start hustling... so to speak. As for other possible favorites, these offerings ranked highest in the past 30 days.