NBC has announced the launch of its new service, "NBC Direct," which will allow users to download and view NBC's popular primetime and late-night programs on their desktops for up to a week after they are initially broadcast.

Among the programs available for download will be Friday Night Lights. This new feature provides another platform on which fans will be able to enjoy NBC content, said Vivi Zigler, Executive V.P. of NBC Digital Entertainment.

"With the creation of this service, we are acknowledging that now, more than ever, viewers want to be in control of how, when and where they consumer their favorite entertainment," said Zigler. "Not only does this feature give them more control, but it also gives them a higher quality video experience."

The first version of this new feature, which will begin beta testing in October, will allow users to download full episodes of Friday Night Lights or other shows for viewing on PCs. Each episode will be licensed to users via "NBC Direct" for one week following broadcast and will then expire.

The file will provide users with an improved viewing experience compared to traditional streaming video. A list of programs available at launch includes Heroes, The Office, Life, Bionic Woman, 30 Rock, Friday Night Lights, Late Night with Conan O'Brien and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.