As Netflix embarks on a mission to expand its Web video streaming reach outside the boundaries of the United States, Redbox is making plans to enter the market as competition. All of which is good for us, the consumers.
Web Video Streaming
Web video streaming is the future. Oh sure, there will be demand for hard copies of media such as films, TV shows, music, and games for a long time to come yet, but eventually all these mediums of entertainment will be consumed digitally.
And some companies are ahead of the curve on this one, already offering Web streaming and digital distribution. These companies include Hulu, the BBC, Apple, Amazon, and a host of others. And then there’s Netflix.
Netflix Heading To Canada
Netflix’s ‘Watch Instantly’ is a great service given to customers as part of the company’s DVD-by-mail subscriptions. It’s available on a host of different devices, from the PC to the iPad, and delivers time after time.
And now it’s heading for Canada, venturing outside the boundaries of the U.S. for the first time. OK, so it’s not far, but it’s a start.
From the fall, Canadians will be able to sign up for Netflix’s streaming service, but not the DVD service. Which means this is the first time the company is offering a streaming-only subscription plan.
Redbox Heading Online
Meanwhile, back in the States, DVD kiosk retailer Redbox is making plans to enter the streaming market as well. It was revealed back in April that the company was at least looking into the idea, and it now appears as though it’s full steam ahead.
The company is seeking ways of expanding beyond the limitations offered by its kiosks, even though it has 24,000 of them installed around the U.S. The Web would seem the obvious way to go.
The idea would seem to be for a low-cost alternative to Netflix, with $3.95 a month buying subscribers four kiosk rentals and unlimited streaming. Which would be a bargain if Redbox manages to pull it off.
Conclusions
I want Netflix to come to Europe, so its foray into international waters is a good suggestion of things to come. As for Redbox, its plan could be an absolute winner. If it indeed comes to anything.
