Movies can be streamed directly from Blockbuster to your television sets with the help of the set top box provided by Blockbuster in association with 2Wire according to an announcement. But the question remains as to how many would prefer replacing Netflix with this.
After a lot of speculation, “MediaPoint”, the Blockbuster box was finally released. Speculators feel it has to face a tough competition with the well established Netflix in order to survive in this market.
MediaPoint’s size is just two candy bags from movie theatres put together. Initially, this box will be offered for free with an agreement that the user will purchase at least 25 movie rentals at the rate of $99. Subsequent rentals will cost user $1.99. Free content is restricted for those who have subscribed for rentals from Blockbuster.
Ethernet or Wi-Fi is required to connect your home network to the MediaPoint. HDMI, composite cables, Toslink and component cables are used to integrate the box to your home entertainment systems.
Comparing with Netflix’s current offer, users per month pay just $9 for access to unlimited movies and videos numbering 10,000 +. Though most of them are not the latest movies, the range of choice is staggering. Netflix offers service through Xbox 360 and Blu-ray players with its own set top box.
The only advantage Blockbuster seems to offer over this is its newer titles. The downside to this is latest movie rentals cost $3.99. By renting three movies, users exceed the cheapest unlimited plan of Netflix. With a more convincing offer, maybe Blockbuster may still have a chance to face competition.
