Netflix could soon be just another channel on your television. They just signed a deal with TIVO cable box which was announced on the 25th. TIVO cable box is not a big name cable company but this is a big step for the movie streaming company. Being able to browse through the channels and run into Netflix next to channels such as ESPN or CBS could be a game changer. Having to set up your computer to your television can be a pain in the butt, however channel surfing has just gotten easier with the Netflix channel. The company says that one of the hardest parts of getting new customers or keeping old ones is just the fact of getting another bill from the company. Now being included with the cable buyers will be less turned off by the extra cost because the extra fee will be included all on one bill. This deal with TIVO could open up a whole new world to the streaming giant.
http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2014-04-25/netflix-finally-breaks-into-the-cable-box-dot-why-does-that-matter#r=nav-r-story
Interesting especially in light of the recent successes of Netflix-produced TV shows, which are gaining a lot of critical and commercial successes. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteLike the article states, I think it will be difficult for Netflix to essentially become its own channel and "merge" with the cable companies. Not only do I think that cable companies will be hesitant to share the millions of customers they've worked hard to acquire, but this will also end up changing the demographics of Netflix culture.
ReplyDeleteI wonder when Amazon Prime and Hulu will get in on the action?
ReplyDeleteThis makes sense as a business strategy. They are first purely digital outfit to have their own production company (genius). I see this as the insurgent force in the television industry, and networks will no longer be the one-stop shop for entertainment goods.
ReplyDeleteIt will be interesting to see if this strategy works. Many customers stream their Netflix with gaming systems which basically serves the same purpose of TIVO without the monthly bill.
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