Categories
Netflix has just announced its new “Watch Now” feature that allows subscribers to watch their rented movies streamed over the Internet. This was a direct response to Blockbuster’s Total Access program that allows its subscribers to come back and get new movies at local Blockbuster stores, a feature Netflix could never compete with. The Blockbuster franchise is simply too big. However, as the Internet speeds up and more people connect their TV to their PC, movie streaming is becoming the future.
Movie streaming is a service also offered by companies like Apple and Amazon, so Netflix is certainly the first to do this, but it’s the first company to stream movies alongside DVD rentals. Subscribers can watch an hour’s worth of video for every dollar their subscription costs. So the $ 17.99 plan will give you 18 hours of movie viewing through Netflix.
So what’s the problem with streaming movies anyway? Who would want to see a complete movie on their computer monitor? Well, technology is finally catching up to make this a possibility. First, broadband internet speeds are getting faster. Second, more and more consumers are finding ways to connect their computer to their television, even wirelessly. Therefore, the video on your computer does not need to be confined to your monitor.
And what does all this mean for the movie and DVD rental industry and, more importantly, for consumers? Those who depend on DVD rentals to make better money are beginning to find a way to stream their movies to their customers. Consumers are beginning to want their videos and movies on demand, and as technology grows, the demand for immediate gratification will also increase.
For all consumers, you may not be ready for video streaming yet. The current offers from DVD rental companies may be right for you. If that describes your needs, then it is still the majority. Video streaming isn’t as popular as traditional online DVD rental services offered by companies like Netflix, Blockbuster, and GameznFlix. The switch to streaming video will be slow, but it will happen. Don’t worry, you won’t have to change until you’re ready.
What can we expect in the near future?
So sit back, relax, and wait for the changes to occur. Video streaming may seem like a novelty for now, but soon everyone will be using it in one way or another. Maybe one day all of your movies, videos, and TV shows will come straight from the Internet to your TV screen.
