Netflix is heading to the UK. The US movie and TV streaming service has confirmed plans to launch on these shores in 2012. So what does this mean for big time rival Lovefilm? And what devices will you be able to watch Netflix on once it begins its UK rollout? Read on for all of the details.
Netflix is being rather coy about when its UK and Ireland operation will actually launch, only saying that it will get going early next year. But make no mistake, its presence on the Xbox 360, PS3 and Wii, not to mention Apple TV and Google TV and a stack of Blu-ray players, means Amazon’s Lovefilm is going to come under some serious pressure. Netflix reckons over 700 products can play nice with its services.
Lovefilm’s streaming service remains limited in scope, despite availability on a growing number of gadgets and its forthcoming arrival on the Xbox 360. Its lack of post-2009 Universal films also leaves it at a disadvantage. Add in the fact that, Netflix’s preponderance in the States means it’s likely to offer cheaper packages than its biggest competitor, and you can bet Amazon execs are fretting this morning. It should be said though that price plans won’t be revealed until just before launch.
Netflix has opened up registration on its site for punters who want to know just when it’s launching in the UK. Expect Amazon and Lovefilm to fight this invasion aggressively. Whether it can win or not remains to be seen.
