Another day, another mobile device blocked by Hulu. But is this level of control over who can stream its content and from where really all that necessary?
Surprised? I Guess Not…
The release of another mobile device capable of streaming video is hardly news; these things are ten a penny now. The news that Hulu has blocked that mobile device from accessing its content is also unsurprising, as it’s the fate shared by the vast majority of mobile devices.
However, the speed at which Hulu acted to block the new BlackBerry PlayBook tablet is noteworthy. And Hulu’s actions are worth taking a closer look at.
Hulu Blocks PlayBook
The BlackBerry PlayBook from RiM went on sale in the U.S. and Canada on Tuesday (April 19). Within just one day of this new tablet being available in stores, Hulu had blocked the device from accessing its content.
This is despite the PlayBook supporting Flash, unlike the iPad and many other tablets, which in turn means users could simply visit the Hulu website to watch all the video content they desire. If Hulu wasn’t so stringent in its efforts to prevent anyone it doesn’t seem worthy from gaining access.
The PlayBook is far from the first mobile device to receive such treatment, because Hulu wants you to pay for the privilege of watching its video library. Hence the need to purchase a Hulu Plus subscription and own one of the devices supported by it if you want to do so.
In terms of tablets that essentially means an Apple iPad currently.
Conclusions
I have no problem with Hulu trying to bring in revenue in order to pay for itself and keep the networks that populate its library happy. But why make people jump through hoops in order to do so?
Make the PlayBook a supported device, and do so in advance of the device being released. I know, strange concept, eh? Otherwise those who buy a PlayBook expecting to be able to access Hulu through it are left disappointed. And that’s hardly building a happy and loyal customer base.
Related Ad
Buy a ‘BlackBerry PlayBook [sans Hulu]’ on Amazon
