Netflix Looks to Add Content

After Netflix started streaming movies online and later to the Roku box, the outcry was "more content." At first they concentrated on adding access. LG and Samsung were the first after Roku with Microsoft's Xbox 360 next up. CES 2009 revealed that more and more manufacturers are not only looking to Netflix but also exploring other options like Yahoo! Widgets. As the market gets more and more saturated with competition, Netflix's early lead may be eclipsed if they can't provide what consumers want - up-to-date content and not just legacy movies and TV shows.

The first step with Netflix was the introduction of a partnership with Starz. What Starz brings to the table is original TV series and the newer movies - at least for a time. After a while because of licensing requirements the movies drop off the cue. While some (including me) have noted that the quality of the Starz movies is generally lacking, they are at least current.

Now, according to a recent survey of users, Netflix is exploring new options of bringing contemporary content. The tip off was the statement, "Imagine Netflix gave you a way to instantly watch HBO original series and movies streamed from the Internet to your computer or TV."

That's right - HBO.

The downside is that this doesn't look to be a free addition to current subscribers like Starz was. Instead, Netflix is looking to up the price by $10 for the addition of the service. This makes sense since HBO is currently working on broadband downloads of content for a similar price. This would give access to that content for non-HBO subscribers via Netflix. Likely, the $10 would be passed directly to HBO with Netflix looking only to entice new customers and gain revenue from their subscription fees.

Also, according to the list of possible available shows, up to the minute content might not be on the menu. Instead, we might be looking only at movies and some of the more established (or recently canceled) shows. With services like Hulu already focusing on providing next day access to current TV shows, the question is whether Netflix will try to move into streaming TV shows or just focus on movies. While it seems that Netflix is already firmly entrenched, the battle for online streaming of content is far from over.