Netflix Could Be On Its Way To Cable Boxes In The U.S.

Netflix could be coming to subscribers of cable services in the U.S., as the company is reportedly in talks with several of them, including Comcast and Suddenlink. The report comes from The Wall Stree...
Netflix Could Be On Its Way To Cable Boxes In The U.S.
Written by Chris Crum
  • Netflix could be coming to subscribers of cable services in the U.S., as the company is reportedly in talks with several of them, including Comcast and Suddenlink.

    The report comes from The Wall Street Journal, which cites “people familiar with the matter,” and comes on the heels of Netflix striking such deals with providers in Europe.

    Last month, Virgin Media announced its deal with Netflix, which sees the provider adding the Netflix app to its TiVo boxes. Subscribers still have to be paying Netflix subscribers making the deal really about Netflix simply getting on more devices in more homes.

    Shortly thereafter, news came out that Netflix had struck a similar deal with Com Hem in Sweden, which is also offering Netflix through its TiVo boxes.

    It remains to be seen whether or not U.S. providers will follow suit, but they’re at least entertaining talks, and are reportedly a bit more receptive to the idea than in years past.

    Netflix is still viewed as a direct competitor, but could also be seen as an added value for cable subscribers, meaning it could also help Netflix-providing companies compete with those who do not offer it. This would likely become a bigger sell for cable subscribers as Netflix continues to gain buzz from its original and exclusive programming, which essentially makes Netflix more of an HBO-like entity.

    According to the WSJ’s report, some providers have refused to take part in Netflix’s Open Connect program, which the company is “insisting” be used in any deals. This gives subscribers access to better picture quality, which is obviously important to customer satisfaction and ultimately Netflix’s brand.

    Image: Netflix (YouTube)

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