May 20th, 2008
Netflix's set-top box: Is it really a game changer?
The reviews are in and Netflix’s set-top box–the Netflix Player by Roku–is a hottie. Then again we’ve heard this set-top box euphoria kick in before. Is Netflix really the company that will crack the code?
Forgive the skepticism, but we’ve been down this road before wit
h Apple TV–Apple’s forgotten product. However, this time could be different.
Netflix has a few things in its corner (Techmeme, statement). For starters, the device is $99.99 and streams more than 10,000 movies and TV episodes. David Carnoy’s review is also positive. Here’s the synopsis:
The good: Streams Netflix Watch Now titles to your TV; affordable $100 price tag; unlimited viewing with no additional charge beyond standard ($8.95 or higher) monthly Netflix fee; PC-free movie watching; simple setup; includes built-in wired and 802.11g Wi-Fi networking; works with all TVs; upgradeable firmware allows for new features, interface improvements, and bug fixes.
The bad: While growing, the number of Watch Now titles currently available for streaming is still pretty paltry, especially when it comes to popular recent releases; video quality doesn’t come close to DVD or HD; far too many titles don’t appear in their original wide-screen version; no surround sound; can’t manipulate queue via TV screen; yet another box under the TV.
The bottom line: While it’s still a work in progress–and currently lean on quality content–the Netflix Player’s simple operation, overall convenience, and cheap price makes it a compelling option for Netflix subscribers looking for instant gratification.
Overall, the Netflix’s player is important as it gives the company another distribution channel–it can’t rely on DVD rentals via snail mail forever.
Among the key details to know:
- The Netflix player is the size of a paperback;
- The player is Wi-Fi enabled;
- It has all the connections–HDMI, S-Video, digital optical audio etc.–to fit in with your home entertainment system.
It all sounds swell on paper. But the real test will come in the months to come. Will consumers buy it?
Larry Dignan is Editor in Chief of ZDNet and Editorial Director of ZDNet sister site TechRepublic. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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