NBC is stepping up to show its ability to peer into the future. The Peacock Network is offering free Apple iTunes downloads of the pilot episode of “Conviction,” a new show from Emmy-winner Dick Wolf, set to debut on March 3^rd. Given the ratings success NBC has had for “The Office” by selling downloads, this move is a logical progression of its future digital strategy.

When incumbent media companies team up with smart partners (such as Apple) the net result is powerful.