Will Netflix Blu-only decision make download rentals more attractive?

[josuff247]

I've been on the fence with getting an Apple TV, this might be what tips the scale for me.

[hidefimports]

Will, I think Netflix knows downloadable rentals would replace a large percentage of Disc media rentals. They are starting to offer VOD themselves. They will only expand it.

[Pouyan]

I've always downloaded over renting

[Baby Wipes]

I personally like the idea of having a hard copy of the movie. Downloads would limit replay options for me. Also creates a necessity of storage hardware. I think it has its place and could be a valuable option for movies that don't come across as a "must buy" title.

[michealo]

not for me at least.

although i'm a heavy renter, downloads have far too many limitations.

[tranzparentl]

Downloads and VOD is definately the future of rentals and NetFlix knows it.

I don't blame them for wanting to drop HD DVD. It's hard for these online rental companies to make money due to the large stock of discs they need to have on hand all the time and the rising costs of HD media.

Whereas downloads and VOD rentals they just need to have hard drive space and servers. They dont have to worry about losing money over scratched discs or discs that get "lost" in the mail.

As more HD VOD services are offered I think you will see Netflix raise the price of their mailing disc service and I'm sure they would love to phase it out eventually.

For rentals people could have the movies almost instantly versus waiting a few days and hopeing the title they want is in stock. I've heard many people saying all the Blu-rays are under long wait. With downloads and VOD there is no such thing as "out of stock"

[ChayesFSS]

You mean they weren't attractive already?

[Inglix the Mad]

Well first we have to look at the total of renting at Netflix.

Then we have to determine how many of those are tech savvy enough to stream from PC to TV.

Next we have to get a Net Neutrality bill to stop "Traffic Management."

Then we have to make sure download caps don't come into play.

Finally you need to get a line that's faster than the current 2Mb/s broadband available to most people.

Thinking of the average consumer (even a large percentage of netflix renters), no. VOD from the cable or satellite company stands a better chance. For the tech savvy consumer, it definitely stands a chance of succeeding (tech savvy people can be pretty patient, part of the job). The tech savvy consumer will be undaunted in setting up the hardware and software (toss in a little network wiring too) to make it work.