It looks like Netflix is venturing into the On Demand rental business with the help of the appliance overlords at LG. We get the skinny today thanks to the WEBMASTER at Filmjunk:
According to the New York Times, they (NETFLIX) are partnering with LG to produce a set top box that will connect directly to your TV. This would allow them to push the library of 600 or so movies that are currently viewable on-demand from their website to people’s living rooms instead of their home computers. The movies will not initially be available in high-definition, although it is something they are working towards.
I am not an avid TV watcher, but recently I was at a friend’s house and got to experience the glory that is On Demand movie service. You have a catalogue of films that you can choose from using your digital cable box, and they are available at you leisure 24/7. This is insanely convenient and will ensure that we have one more reason not to leave the house.
It is wise for Netflix to get involved in this racquet. Most people prefer to watch movies on their televisions. To offer a service with the convenience of the net and the familiarity of the cable remote is a recipe for success. Whoever offers the best library of films will win the business; 600 rotating films is a good amount and should prove to be successful for Netflix. I am not sure how the pricing structure will work, but I am assuming that for a monthly fee you will have free reign of the library.
If they set this up using an internet connection, you can use this service in conjunction with your cable/satellite service for an insane amount of variety. If cable/sat service is not needed; this may be a great option for people like myself that just want to watch movies. All the On Demand rentals you can handle for a reasonable price would certainly peak my interest.
