Blockbuster Inc. has struck a deal with Samsung Electronics America Inc. to offer movie rentals through Samsung’s next generation of high-definition TVs. The move, aimed at regaining ground on Netflix, will allow users to receive digital rentals piped through the Internet with their TV remote control and a built-in feature in each TV set.
The rentals are expected to be priced between $1.99 and $3.99 and will be viewable for up to 24 hours. Netflix extended its products first to cover video streaming with a free supplement to its DVD-by-mail service launched in early-2007. Since then, Netflix has been at work getting its streaming features onto several consumer electronics products.
Blockbuster’s latest move puts it in partnership with the world’s largest manufacturer of flat-screen TVs, and moves it into Netflix’ space with support added to Samsung’s Blu-ray DVD players and home theater systems. There has been some speculation that Amazon may seek to acquire Netflix, which currently has a market value around $2.5 billion.
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Sony and Discovery Communications have announced a new Blu-ray-based promotion in which all buyers of Sony standalone Blu-ray players will receive a free, exclusive Blu-ray title from Discovery.
The promotion will begin on October 5th and is for “a limited time only.” Over 11,000 retailers are paricipating in the promotion including Sears, Circuit City and Sony Style, and when purchasing a Sony standalone you will be given a coupon redeemable for the Discovery BD. The disc will have episodes of Fearless Planet and Sunrise Earth which are nomally seen on Discovery’s HD Theater network.
To promote the partnership, in-store trailers for Discovery on Blu-ray Disc will be played on Sony Bravia LCD TVs at retailer locations.
“Discovery has emerged as the gold standard among high-definition television programmers,” said Patrick Gates, president and general manager of Discovery commerce. “We could think of no better partner than Sony Electronics to help showcase our spectacular adventure and nature programming to Blu-ray customers.”
Chris Fawcett, VP of marketing for Sony, added, “The Blu-ray Disc format unlocks the true potential of today’s high-definition TVs with stunning full HD experience. Discovery’s high-quality programs are a tailor-made showcase for Blu-ray Disc and a great first experience for a consumer new to the format.”
