Google is actively looking to begin an unlimited streaming subscription service, one that will rival Netflix and Amazon, and may launch it first in the UK.
The search giant has been in talks with the major studios for months but may begin in Europe first where there is much less competition.
Netflix does not currently offer services in Europe but Amazon, following their purchase of LoveFilm last month, has a strong foothold.
For now, Google has put aside $100 million for content deals with the studios.
The NYPost says the plan is being lead by executive Robert Kyncl, who left Netflix last September.
Result for: major studios
Warner Home Video has announced they will be offering Blu-ray Disc revenue-sharing through Rentrak, a company that provides transactional media measurement and analytical services to the entertainment and media industries.
The deal was not fully disclosed, but it seems like rental outlets will have to sign up for Warner’s DVD revenue-sharing offer first before they can get the same luxury for BD.
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment and Lionsgate are the only other major studios to offer the BD revenue sharing, but a few indies are said to be contemplating as well, including Summit Home Entertainment, Anchor Bay Entertainment, E1/Koch and Magnolia Home Entertainment.
“Warner has developed an impressive track record with respect to creating and marketing film properties that resonate with the consumer,” adds Marty Graham, president of the home entertainment division at Rentrak, via VB. “We are thrilled to be able to offer both Warner’s DVD and Blu-ray Disc new release content to retailers participating in our revenue-sharing program.”
Rentrak adds that BD rentals are up 50 percent this year.
Result for: major studios
Sonic Solutions has announced that will begin selling USB drives loaded with movies that are available through their CinemaNow service, at retail price, beginning later this year.
The drives will each hold one film, and will come from the CinemaNow library, which offers over 10,000 films from all the major studios.
The movies can be played right from the drive or through many of the CinemaNow integrated devices. The content is yours forever once you buy it.
“Delivering content on USB drives is the latest example of how Roxio CinemaNow is enabling access to digital Hollywood hits across the broadest possible range of devices,” Dave Habiger, president and CEO at Sonic, added, via VB. “Teaming with industry leaders such as Widevine is allowing us to overcome the technical hurdles of digital rights management and platform optimization behind the scenes, so all the consumer experiences are convenient, hassle-free entertainment viewing.”
The drives will be sold independently at retail or bundled with phones or other devices.
