Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com Download Squad http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Netflix iPad app updated improved UI, loses disc management]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/04/netflix-ipad-app-updated-improved-ui-loses-disc-management/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/04/netflix-ipad-app-updated-improved-ui-loses-disc-management/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/03/04/netflix-ipad-app-updated-improved-ui-loses-disc-management/#comments Netflix for iPad updated The Netflix iPad app got a back-end update yesterday that pushed out a new iPad-optimized interface replacing the previous lightly customized version of the standard Nexflix site. In doing so, Netflix has removed the ability to manage your disc queue from the app, limiting you to browsing just the Home, Genres, Search, and Instant Queue areas of the site. This brings the app into line with the modified Netflix TV streaming front-ends that were introduced back in January.

While the faster and better optimized site is a boon for the iPad experience, removing disc management from the app, plus some of the more detailed movie info, is a bit of a step back in terms of functionality. Unfortunately, unlike most other native iOS apps, you don't really have a choice whether you upgrade or not as it's all done server-side. The good news is that the Netflix site still works fine in Mobile Safari, so if worst comes to the worst you can always manage you queue through the browser.

Download SquadNetflix iPad app updated improved UI, loses disc management originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsiOSiPadmoviesNetflixutilitiesvideoFri, 04 Mar 2011 03:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix and CBS sign deal for more streaming shows]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/23/netflix-and-cbs-sign-deal-for-more-streaming-shows/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/23/netflix-and-cbs-sign-deal-for-more-streaming-shows/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/23/netflix-and-cbs-sign-deal-for-more-streaming-shows/#commentsNetflix has just signed a deal to add CBS shows to its streaming library. The two-year agreement means Netflix subscribers can watch Medium, Frasier, Cheers, Star Trek, Twin Peaks and more via the Watch Instantly feature. Unfortunately for viewers, CBS is still wary of putting recent or currently-running shows on Netflix, because they want to keep the reruns (and the ad revenue) for themselves.

The deal is non-exclusive, so these shows could also be licensed by Hulu or any other Netflix competitor. On the plus side for Netflix, this deal makes it the first streaming video service to have content from all four broadcast networks.

Download SquadNetflix and CBS sign deal for more streaming shows originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CBSnetflixshowsstreamingstreaming videoStreamingVideotelevisiontvvideovideo on demandVideoOnDemandwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyWed, 23 Feb 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Queuenoodle warns you when Netflix streaming movies are about to expire]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/16/queuenoodle-warns-netflix-streaming-movies-expire/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/16/queuenoodle-warns-netflix-streaming-movies-expire/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/16/queuenoodle-warns-netflix-streaming-movies-expire/#comments Streaming movies on Netflix is convenient, but the films aren't available forever. If you've got a packed Watch Instantly queue and you need to make sure you watch your flicks before they expire, subscribe to Queuenoodle, a new Twitter feed from Twitter's Robin Sloan. It posts alerts between a day and a week before a movie expires, so you don't miss it. Heck, maybe you'll see a movie that you didn't even know you could watch instantly.

Without Queuenoodle, I would never have known that today is my last chance to watch Mortal Kombat on Netflix! This is a dead simple, really useful idea that Netflix probably should have implemented on its own a long time ago.

Download SquadQueuenoodle warns you when Netflix streaming movies are about to expire originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expirationmoviesnetflixqueuenoodlestreamingtwittervideoWed, 16 Feb 2011 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix grades ISPs on HD streaming performance, Charter and Comcast get top marks]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/28/netflix-grades-isps-on-hd-streaming-performance-charter-and-comcast-top/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/28/netflix-grades-isps-on-hd-streaming-performance-charter-and-comcast-top/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/01/28/netflix-grades-isps-on-hd-streaming-performance-charter-and-comcast-top/#comments Netflix has released some numbers ranking various internet service providers based on how well they deliver Netflix HD video streams. The chart ranks the ISPs based on the sustained bitrate they deliver for a long HD movie, and the results are quite fascinating. Charter and Comcast top the list, with averages of 2,500-2,600 kbps. At the bottom of the list is Clearwire, an ISP majority-owned by Sprint.

That Comcast is treating Netflix traffic well enough -- or neutrally enough -- to rank near the top of this list is interesting, considering the recent feud between the two companies. Back in December, Comcast started charging Netflix partner Level3 an additional fee to stream Netflix video via Comcast's pipes. Judging by these numbers, though, the animosity doesn't extend to throttling Netflix traffic.

Time Warner, Cox and Suddenlink round out the top 5. Things could shuffle around, though: Netflix has promised to update the rankings each month, so ISPs won't be able to put the squeeze on them in secret. This could be useful data for Netflix customers shopping around for Internet service in parts of the the U.S. that offer a choice of ISPs, and it gives the providers additional incentive to treat Netflix fairly.

Download SquadNetflix grades ISPs on HD streaming performance, Charter and Comcast get top marks originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clearwirecomcastinternetinternet service providersInternetServiceProvidersISPsnetflixrankingsstreamingvideovideo on demandVideoOnDemandvodFri, 28 Jan 2011 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google buys Widevine video optimization and DRM company]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/04/google-buys-widevine-video-optimization-and-drm-company/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/04/google-buys-widevine-video-optimization-and-drm-company/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/04/google-buys-widevine-video-optimization-and-drm-company/#commentsGoogle's been on an acquisition spree lately, and their newest buy is Widevine, a company that does streaming video optimization and DRM for a slew of big companies. AT&T, Blockbuster, Netflix, and Zip.ca (the "Netflix of Canada") are among the companies that have licensed Widevine DRM for their online video offerings.

Widevine does multiplatform streaming video -- Netflix, for example, uses it for devices like the Wii and XBox 360 as well as Web-based streaming. Google says it plans to improve Widevine's products and use Widevine's tech to improve its own, while maintaining the contracts Widevine already has in place.

Download SquadGoogle buys Widevine video optimization and DRM company originally appeared on Download Squad on Sat, 04 Dec 2010 05:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DRMgooglenetflixstreamingvideowidevineSat, 04 Dec 2010 05:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix launches $7.99 streaming-only plan, increases price of DVD plan]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/22/netflix-launches-7-99-streaming-only-plan-increases-price-of-dvd-plan/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/22/netflix-launches-7-99-streaming-only-plan-increases-price-of-dvd-plan/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/22/netflix-launches-7-99-streaming-only-plan-increases-price-of-dvd-plan/#commentsFiled under: ,

Netflix plansAfter a trial back in October, Netflix has now announced its $7.99/month streaming-only plan. This matches the Hulu Plus price drop from last week. Of course, both services have different libraries of TV shows and movies -- and Hulu Plus still has ads!

The new plan is targeted squarely at the growing army of those that find physical media a thing of the past. Still, a difference of just $2 is a small price to pay for the option of unlimited DVDs.

In other news, Netflix has increased the price of its DVD-loaning plans, presumably to cover the growth of its streaming service. One-DVD-at-a-time now costs a dollar more ($9.99), with larger plans increasing by a similar percentage.

The only-two-DVDs-a-month plan price remains unchanged.

[via Engadget]

Download SquadNetflix launches $7.99 streaming-only plan, increases price of DVD plan originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hulustreamingstreaming videoStreamingVideotvvideo on demandVideoOnDemandvodMon, 22 Nov 2010 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Hulu Plus now available to all, price dropped to $7.99 a month]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/17/hulu-plus-now-available-to-all-price-dropped-to-7-99-a-month/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/17/hulu-plus-now-available-to-all-price-dropped-to-7-99-a-month/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/17/hulu-plus-now-available-to-all-price-dropped-to-7-99-a-month/#commentsFiled under:

There good news today for those of you who have been wishing you could sign up for Hulu Plus: the service has officially launched. Better yet, they've knocked the price down from $9.99 to $7.99 -- and preview users will get a credit back for the difference. The price drop has a lot to do with the recent testing of Netflix's streaming-only plan (which is also $7.99 per month).

Hulu's launch announcement also includes plenty of ways to enjoy a little Plus for free:
  • Buyers of new Sony Bravia TVs or Blu-ray players can get 11 free weeks
  • New Roku device purchasers get one month free
  • Preview users will get one week free as a thank-you
  • Current Hulu customers get a two-week free trial
The announcement also mentions a slew of new devices which will be getting access to Hulu, from Vizio Blu-Ray players to Western Digital's Live TV Plus media player. There's also mention of enhancements to existing Hulu apps for iOS devices and the PS3 which are coming soon -- though no specific details were given.

Download SquadHulu Plus now available to all, price dropped to $7.99 a month originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hulunetflixrokustreamingtvvideoWed, 17 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix for Windows Phone 7 now available in the Zune Marketplace]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/01/netflix-for-windows-phone-7-now-available-in-the-zune-marketplac/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/01/netflix-for-windows-phone-7-now-available-in-the-zune-marketplac/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/11/01/netflix-for-windows-phone-7-now-available-in-the-zune-marketplac/#commentsFiled under:

As Windows Phone 7 nears its North American launch date, big name apps continue to appear in the Zune Marketplace. Today, Netflix announced that its WP7 app is now live and ready to download. As with the Netflix apps for other platforms, the WP7 version is totally free and will allow you to watch streaming content on your device.

In case you're keeping tabs, the Windows Phone 7 app actually arrived before the Android version of Netflix -- which is still "coming soon."

The blog post also notes that Canadian Netflix users can now access the Watch Instantly library on their Xbox 360, which should go nicely with your shiny new dashboard.

Download SquadNetflix for Windows Phone 7 now available in the Zune Marketplace originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 01 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>moviemoviesnetflixshowsstreamingtvvideowindows phone 7WindowsPhone7wp7Mon, 01 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix streaming on Wii no longer requires a disc]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/18/netflix-streaming-on-wii-no-longer-requires-a-disc/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/18/netflix-streaming-on-wii-no-longer-requires-a-disc/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/10/18/netflix-streaming-on-wii-no-longer-requires-a-disc/#commentsFiled under:

I've been thoroughly enjoying Netflix on my Wii. It's not perfect, but we Canadians aren't exactly blessed with a plethora of streaming media options. Also, it scores big-time bonus points for offering Blackadder.

One minor gripe about the Wii incarnation: having to use a disc to launch Netflix. Today, however, Netflix has announced that you can now access the app from your Wii Menu -- totally disc-free! Just head over to the Wii shop, download the Netflix app, and you're good to go.

Now, y'all excuse me while I revel in the hilarious antics of Rowan Atkinson and Hugh Laurie...

Download SquadNetflix streaming on Wii no longer requires a disc originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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digg
Netflix on the PlayStation 3 is finally going disc-free, with a native app due out Monday, October 18. The app will be added to the PS3's XrossMediaBar, and it features a revamped user interface, 1080p resolution, and Dolby 5.1 channel surround sound support. The new app will also offer additional subtitled content from the Netflix streaming library.

With this update, the PS3 will become a pretty decent home theater setup in a box. Now all you need is an enormous TV and some decent speakers. Just in case you don't believe this news, it's been confirmed with two official announcements: one from Sony and one joint announcement from Netflix and Dolby. Netflix also said it plans to bring Dolby surround sound to its other platforms, but it failed to offer a schedule or name the specific platforms.

Download SquadDisc-free Netflix hits the PS3 next week, with 1080p and surround sound support originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pmoviesnetflixplaystation 3Playstation3ps3streamingThu, 14 Oct 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix now streams unlimited TV and movies in Canada for $7.99 per month]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/22/netflix-now-streams-unlimited-tv-and-movies-in-canada-for-7-99/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/22/netflix-now-streams-unlimited-tv-and-movies-in-canada-for-7-99/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/22/netflix-now-streams-unlimited-tv-and-movies-in-canada-for-7-99/#commentsFiled under:

As a Canadian living about 600 miles from the nearest metropolitan center, this is huge news: Netflix has opened its doors in Canada. The service is streaming-only -- no rentals by mail as in the U.S. -- but I'll take it.

For $7.99 a month, Canadians can watch all the TV shows and movies they want via their Wii, PS3, or PC -- Xbox 360 support is coming soon. Better still, your first month of Netflix viewing won't cost you a cent. The selection here in Canada isn't nearly what it is in the States, but that will certainly improve in time.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go watch Waterworld. No, not really.

Download SquadNetflix now streams unlimited TV and movies in Canada for $7.99 per month originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadamoviesnetflixstreamingtvvideoWed, 22 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix app now available for iPhone and iPod touch -- stream TV and film to your phone!]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/26/netflix-app-now-available-for-iphone-and-ipod-touch/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/26/netflix-app-now-available-for-iphone-and-ipod-touch/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/26/netflix-app-now-available-for-iphone-and-ipod-touch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The baited, belabored wait is over! After almost four months of iPad exclusivity, Netflix has done as it promised: the iPhone and iPod touch app is here [iTunes link].

The Netflix app lets you stream TV shows and movies straight to your iOS device -- and according to MacRumors, the service works over Wi-Fi and 3G. You'll need a Netflix subscription ($8.99/month), and 3G data costs will be prohibitive to most... but the ability to stream TV and movies from your local Wi-Fi-enabled Starbucks is pretty damn cool.

Now we just need a similar service here in Europe... how about it, Lovefilm?

Gallery: Netflix for iOS

Download SquadNetflix app now available for iPhone and iPod touch -- stream TV and film to your phone! originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 07:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosipadiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmoviesnetflixstreamingtvvideoThu, 26 Aug 2010 07:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix app for Android on the way, but it could be a long wait]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/10/netflix-android-app/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/10/netflix-android-app/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/10/netflix-android-app/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're an Android user seething over the fact that the iPad and the iPhone are getting Netflix streaming before you do, seethe no more! A Netflix employee has confirmed the company is hiring developers to begin work on the Android app, and the company's job listings on Reddit corroborate his information.

As Mashable points out, Netflix's new "Android Video Playback Expert" will be someone who has experience with streaming video on "other mobile platforms," which means that the Android app might be adapted from the existing iPad and iPhone apps.

The ads imply that there's nobody in charge of the project yet, so I wouldn't expect the app to be finished any time soon. Nevertheless, Netflix is clearly demonstrating their commitment to supporting Android, so this app is more than just vaporware.

Download SquadNetflix app for Android on the way, but it could be a long wait originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidmoviesnetflixstreamingvideoTue, 10 Aug 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayOn's HTML5-powered web app brings Hulu, Netflix to the iPhone and iPad]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/02/playon-html5-netflix-hulu-iphone-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/02/playon-html5-netflix-hulu-iphone-ipad/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/02/playon-html5-netflix-hulu-iphone-ipad/#commentsFiled under: ,

So you've created a slick iPhone app only to be handed a rejection from the boys in Cupertino? Back to the drawing board, then... and time to take a good, hard look at alternative ways to get your project in the hands of iDevice owners.

For PlayOn, the answer was an HTML5 web app -- which, according to VentureBeat's Devindra Hardawar, runs every bit as well on the iPhone as many of the video streaming apps you'll find in the App Store. Install the PlayOn software on your computer, connect your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to your home wifi, and you're ready to enjoy PlayOn channels like Hulu, Netflix, Revision 3, and Comedy Central.

It's not quite Netflix (which currently has an app for iPad) or Hulu (who will probably have an app soon) on your iPhone, however. Since PlayOn currently only scans your local network, you'll only be able to kick back in the comfort of your own home. Still, for those of you who can actually use Hulu, paying for PlayOn might make more sense than ponying up for Hulu Plus.

PlayOn's will run you $39.99 for year one and $19.99 for every year after that -- or you can plop down a one-time payment of $79.99. Compared to $10/month for Hulu Plus alone and adding in all the other content you'll have at your disposal, that pay-once-enjoy-forever rate doesn't seem quite so stiff.

Of course, Hulu does enjoy blocking 3rd party apps -- so they could drop the banhammer on PlayOn at any moment.

Download SquadPlayOn's HTML5-powered web app brings Hulu, Netflix to the iPhone and iPad originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>huluipadiphonenetflixplayonstreaminvideoMon, 02 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix ready to take off, eh? Streaming movie service heads to Canada]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/07/19/netflix-canada/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/07/19/netflix-canada/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/07/19/netflix-canada/#commentsFiled under: ,

If we use heat as a metaphor for access to streaming movies, Canada really IS the frozen north. No access to Hulu and Netflix means a hard life for film-hungry Canadians.

Hulu will have to wait, but Netflix has announced it's launching in Canada this fall. If you're in Canada and you want to be notified when Netflix is available, you can sign up now at netflix.ca. Canada should be getting Netflix on all of the service's existing platforms, including the mobile apps.

Netflix has never expanded outside the U.S. before, so this might be good news for more than just Canada. There's no word yet on which (if any) other countries will be next, but I assume there's plenty of demand elsewhere in the world.

Netflix also hasn't announced prices in Canada, but the cost should be similar to the U.S. plan: $8.99/mo for streaming. Yep... less than five twoonies!

Download SquadNetflix ready to take off, eh? Streaming movie service heads to Canada originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadamoviesnetflixstreamingvideoMon, 19 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix will delay Fox and Universal releases for 28 days]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/09/netflix-will-delay-fox-and-universal-releases-for-28-days/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/09/netflix-will-delay-fox-and-universal-releases-for-28-days/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/09/netflix-will-delay-fox-and-universal-releases-for-28-days/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you subscribe to Netflix and watch a lot of new releases, you won't be too thrilled about this news: Netflix just announced agreements with Fox and Universal to delay those companies' new movies for 28 days. Netflix already had this kind of deal with Warner Bros., and it's basically an attempt by the movie industry to shore up slipping DVD sales.

Netflix didn't make this deal for nothing, though. The companies agreed to release more streaming content for Netflix, which is a big deal when the Watch Instantly feature is becoming a bigger part of Netflix' business all the time. All in all, probably a smart business move for Netflix, which has recently been focusing on building up its subscriber base by bringing streaming to new platforms like the Nintendo Wii and Apple iPad.

[via Gizmodo]

Download SquadNetflix will delay Fox and Universal releases for 28 days originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysdvdfoxmoviesnetflixnew releasesNewReleasesuniversalFri, 09 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix confirms streaming video app for iPhone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/03/netflix-confirms-streaming-video-app-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/03/netflix-confirms-streaming-video-app-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/03/netflix-confirms-streaming-video-app-for-iphone/#commentsFiled under: ,

When Netflix announced they'd be streaming movies via iPad, we guessed it wouldn't be long before iPhone users got in on the action, too. Netflix has more-or-less confirmed an iPhone app now, according to our friends at TUAW, who spotted a revealing post on the Netflix blog.

The post, written by a Netflix VP, says, "For those of you asking whether Netflix will be on the iPhone and iPod Touch: We wouldn't invite you to dinner without planning to serve dessert. In other words, we're working on it so stay tuned." There's no timetable for the app's release yet, but it can't be far off now that the iPad version is in the store.

Watching movies on an iPhone might not be the best experience -- director David Lynch famously said that you're not seeing a film at all at that size -- but if you've got the Netflix subscription and the iPhone anyway, why not?
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Download SquadNetflix confirms streaming video app for iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Sat, 03 Apr 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iphoneipod touchIpodTouchmoviesnetflixstreamingsubscriptionvideoSat, 03 Apr 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad will get a Netflix streaming video app]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/01/ipad-will-get-a-netflix-streaming-video-app/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/01/ipad-will-get-a-netflix-streaming-video-app/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/01/ipad-will-get-a-netflix-streaming-video-app/#commentsFiled under: ,

Everyone's talking about the iPad as the next big thing in eReaders, but could it also be a killer device for watching movies? Sure, if Netflix has anything to say about it. The Wall Street Journal says Netflix has an iPad app in the works, which means subscribers can stream movies to their iPads, without going through Apple's iTunes.

This may come as a surprise to anyone familiar with Apple's feelings on competition. The iTunes movie store is a different kind of service than Netflix, though. It allows users to rent movies a la carte, with no subscription, and play them later without an Internet connection. Netflix certainly packs a big library, though, and if you're a frequent movie watcher, it's a lot cheaper than buying or renting individual flicks on iTunes. The Netflix app itself is rumored to be free.

There may also be an iPhone/iPod Touch version of Netflix down the line, but right now, sources have only confirmed the iPad app.

The screenshot above is from AppAdvice, who may be playing an April Fools' joke. The Wall Street Journal isn't known for its sense of humor, though, so I'm going to say it's a safe bet that this app is real (even if it might not look like AppAdvice's image).

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Download SquadiPad will get a Netflix streaming video app originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipadmoviesnetflixstreamingsubscriptionvideoThu, 01 Apr 2010 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[A taste of Netflix on Wii (video)]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/26/a-taste-of-netflix-on-wii/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/26/a-taste-of-netflix-on-wii/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/26/a-taste-of-netflix-on-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,

As I was on my way out the door today the friendly postman drove by and shoved a familiar red envelope in my mailbox. Knowing what was coming, I skipped back to the house with the Netflix streaming disc for Wii... My video missed the startup chime, but it kinda sounds like a THX startup sound, low and dramatic.

Browsing on the Wii is pretty basic, but at least more functional than a Samsung I had been using. You can add movies, browse by category, play individual episodes, and enjoy most of what you get on the Xbox but with less resolution. Having seen the 360 version, it's a bit of a bummer to see the fuzziness on my HDTV, but hey, unlike my Samsung (the WiFi dongle died) it works. Yes, you have to keep the disc in while you run Netflix, but that's not really a big deal unless you mistreat the disc.

The video below is a quick taste of our first experience with Netflix on Wii.

Download SquadA taste of Netflix on Wii (video) originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netflixstreamingvideowiiFri, 26 Mar 2010 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix streaming discs for Wii are finally in the mail!]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/25/netflix-streaming-discs-for-wii-are-finally-in-the-mail/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/25/netflix-streaming-discs-for-wii-are-finally-in-the-mail/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/25/netflix-streaming-discs-for-wii-are-finally-in-the-mail/#commentsFiled under: ,

We told you back in January that the ability to stream Netflix movies via your Nintendo Wii would be coming soon, and now it's here! Netflix customers just started receiving email notifications that their Wii discs are in the mail. The discs are available for free to any Netflix subscriber -- just order them on the site -- and they provide access to the whole Netflix streaming library.

Unfortunately, the Wii hardware can't handle Netflix's streaming HD movies. I don't see that as a huge limitation, though: are serious picture-quality nerds really using Wii to watch their movies? Probably not, when Netflix offers Blu-Ray rentals. Wii owners seem more likely to want movies the way they want their gaming experience: casual and convenient. Whatever your feeling on HD, it's certainly not going to hurt Netflix to add one more console to its roster.
[via Blast Magazine]

Download SquadNetflix streaming discs for Wii are finally in the mail! originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 15:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discmoviesnetflixnintendorentalsstreamingwiiThu, 25 Mar 2010 15:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix asks whether you'd like streaming movies on iPhone and iPad]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/03/netflix-asks-whether-youd-like-streaming-movies-on-iphone-and-i/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/03/netflix-asks-whether-youd-like-streaming-movies-on-iphone-and-i/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/03/netflix-asks-whether-youd-like-streaming-movies-on-iphone-and-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Netflix's customer surveys have included some very interesting questions lately, suggesting that the company is looking to expand its streaming video service into the mobile arena. Specifically, Netflix wants to know whether its customers want streaming video for iPhone and (presumably) iPad. Is water wet? Of course they do!

It might be safe to assume that Netflix for iPhone is a far-away pipe dream, but the survey gets pretty specific. Here's the actual question users are being asked:
Imagine that Netflix offers its subscribers the ability to instantly watch movies & TV episodes on their iPhone. The selection availability to instantly watch includes some new releases, lots of classics and TV episodes. There are no advertisements or trailers, and movies start in as little as 30 seconds. You can fast-forward, rewind, and pause or watch again. The movies & TV episodes you instantly watch are included in your Netflix membership for no additional fee.

Whenever you want to instantly watch content on your iPhone, your iPhone must be connected to a Wi-Fi network (such as one you might have at home or at work, or in public places like coffeeshops, book stores, hotels, airports, etc.)

If this functionality were available, how likely would you or someone in your household be to instantly watch movies & TV episodes on your iPhone via a Wi-Fi network?
This makes it sound like Netflix has thought out the iPhone option fairly thoroughly. At the very least, they know what mix of content they want to offer, and they've got a plan for AT&T inevitably blocking streaming over 3G. Netflix might run into some trouble if they decide to go through the App Store, though. Apple doesn't seem likely to let a major video service pull off such a big coup against its own iTunes movie offering.

[via 9to5Mac]
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Download SquadNetflix asks whether you'd like streaming movies on iPhone and iPad originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipadiphonemoviesnetflixstreamingtvvideoWed, 03 Mar 2010 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[YouTube's movie rental test posts dismal profits]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/02/03/youtubes-movie-rental-test-brings-in-small-profits/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/02/03/youtubes-movie-rental-test-brings-in-small-profits/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/02/03/youtubes-movie-rental-test-brings-in-small-profits/#commentsFiled under: , ,

YouTube movie rentals

YouTube began testing the waters with a movie rental service late last month. Starting small, they offered a collection of five films from the Sundance Film Festival. The movies were offered for ten days to see how users would respond to a paid movie rental service.

Charging only $3.99, the films picked up 2,684 views and pulled in only $10,709 total. While the "big guys" in the movie rental business such as NetFlix, Apple and Amazon are certainly not intimidated by such a paltry sum, YouTube says it's happy with the outcome of the test. According to Google, the results "exceeded our expectations given all the barriers" and it looks like we can expect a larger movie rental presence from YouTube in the future.

While nothing is finalized, YouTube says it will be pulling in new video partners and start offering rentals on various sections of their website on a short-term basis. It'll be interesting to see how they fares up against larger companies if their rental service grows.

[via NYTimes.com]

Download SquadYouTube's movie rental test posts dismal profits originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonGoogleitunesmovienetflixrentalSundanceFilmFestivalYouTubeWed, 03 Feb 2010 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix plans to unleash streaming video for the Nintendo Wii]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/13/netflix-plans-to-unleash-streaming-video-for-the-nintendo-wii/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/13/netflix-plans-to-unleash-streaming-video-for-the-nintendo-wii/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/13/netflix-plans-to-unleash-streaming-video-for-the-nintendo-wii/#commentsFiled under:

First there was Wii Fit, now there's the ultimate Wii couch potato app: Netflix. Starting this spring, Netflix subscribers will be able to stream movies directly to their TVs using Nintendo's popular console. This should help the Wii catch up with the Playstation 3, which has a built-in Blu-ray player and the Xbox 360, which has Microsoft's Zune movie store. It's also a good move for Netflix, which is seeing more and more of its total business come from streaming.

To use Netflix on the Wii, you'll need a broadband connection and a free disc from Netflix. Unfortunately, the Wii's hardware isn't powerful enough to stream Netflix' selection of HD videos.

As people struggle to save money, a Netflix account is one of the first things to go, but users are increasingly cutting back their plans and streaming movies instead of quitting Netflix altogether. Streaming also saves Netflix money. According to the New York Times, it's 60 cents to mail a disc, and only 5 cents to stream a movie.

Download SquadNetflix plans to unleash streaming video for the Nintendo Wii originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>moviesnetflixnintendostreamingTVwiiWed, 13 Jan 2010 15:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Roku launches Channel Store, bringing web content to your TV]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/11/23/roku-launches-channel-store-bringing-web-content-to-your-tv/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/11/23/roku-launches-channel-store-bringing-web-content-to-your-tv/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/11/23/roku-launches-channel-store-bringing-web-content-to-your-tv/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've ever considered buying a Roku, the set-top streaming video box for your TV, you've got at least 10 new reasons today. Roku just launched its Channel Store, featuring 10 free content sources. You may have heard of some of them before: Flickr and Facebook Photos are available, as well as music from Pandora, and web shows from heavy hitters like Revision3 and Leo Laporte's TWiT.TV. On the paid side of things, Roku has already partnered with sites like Netflix, Amazon Video and MLB.com.

Will all this free content sell more Roku boxes? I'm not necessarily convinced that people will be willing to spend the money - please pardon the worn-out phrase I'm about to drop, here -- "in this economy," to get TV access to content they can already see for free on their computers. Web show creators might be more excited than consumers about the Channel Store, in fact, because they'll soon be able to create their own channels.

One question for Roku, though: why no YouTube? It seems like a pretty glaring omission from such a star-studded channel lineup.

[via NewTeeVee]

Download SquadRoku launches Channel Store, bringing web content to your TV originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonchannel storeChannelStorefacebookhardwaremlbnetflixonlinepandorarevision3rokustreamingTVtwit.tvvideoMon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix to introduce streaming-only service -- but not in the US]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/10/23/netflix-to-introduce-streaming-but-not-in-the-us/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/10/23/netflix-to-introduce-streaming-but-not-in-the-us/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/10/23/netflix-to-introduce-streaming-but-not-in-the-us/#commentsFiled under:

Netflix have announced their intention to launch a streaming-only video option beginning in the second half of 2010. Currently the only way to stream Netflix movies is to sign up for the DVD-rental-by-mail service. But the new web-only option will only be available outside the US.

Why make a streaming service Netflix' first offering outside the US? 'Tricky' postal systems, says CEO Reed Hastings.

Now, this is a bit of an odd one. Most western nations already have DVD-by-mail systems that work just as well as (or better) than Netflix. So I don't think 'tricky' postal systems are the real reason behind this move. What then do Netflix intend to achieve by focusing on streaming content outside of the US? Is it just a matter of flexibility? More subscription options?

But again, why outside the US? Netflix's brand recognition outside the US is not great.

Hastings and Netflix claim there is still seemingly enough demand for such a service, with 42% of their subscribers watching at least "15 minutes of one TV show or movie in the last quarter." Readwriteweb point to the growing adoption of Hulu and BBC's iPlayer for TV, Pandora and Spotify for music -- but I don't think it's quite the same thing for movies.

People like using their big, wide-screen televisions. They like using their expensive sound set-ups. Set-top boxes that stream content from the Web are still relatively hard to come by and not readily adopted by consumers. Then there's the matter of bandwidth: streaming a movie in high-resolution with a surround-sound audio track is still way beyond the capacity of most American and European Internet connections.

Netflix haven't yet announced which country will get to trial their streaming-movie service, but it'll be interesting to see which one they choose -- and if it will indeed be successful.

[via Readwriteweb]

Download SquadNetflix to introduce streaming-only service -- but not in the US originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dvdnetflixon demandOnDemandstreamingstreaming videoStreamingVideoFri, 23 Oct 2009 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[CBS, Amazon launch Windows 7 apps]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/10/22/cbs-amazon-launch-windows-7-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/10/22/cbs-amazon-launch-windows-7-apps/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/10/22/cbs-amazon-launch-windows-7-apps/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Kindle for PC
You probably knew Microsoft was officially launching Windows 7 today after months of beta testing. But that doesn't mean that CEO Steve Ballmer didn't have a few surprises up his sleeve at launch event.

Some of the coolest new features weren't actually from Microsoft. Partners including CBS, Netflix, and Amazon introduced new applications that work with Windows 7.

CBS content including full-length TV shows will now be available directly from Windows 7 Media Center. At a time when Fox, NBC, and ABC are making streaming content available through the Hulu web site, CBS has been holding out. And now maybe we know why. While Hulu Desktop presents a pretty decent 10-foot interface for watching Hulu content, the usage agreement says you're technically not supposed to plug in a TV to use the application. Windows 7 Media Center, on the other hand, is all about making the experience of watching PC content on a big screen TV easier.

Microsoft also announced that there will be an updated version of the Netflix streaming video app for Windows 7 Media Center as well as integration with the Zune video podcast library and content from MSN and MSNBC.

Meanwhile, Amazon is introducing a new Kindle application for Windows 7. It supports multi-touch gestures and allows you to read Kindle eBooks with color photos and supports pinching to zoom. So if you don't feel like dropping $260 on a physical Kindle, it looks like you can turn your Windows 7 notebook or tablet into an eBook reader capable of handling content from the Kindle store... albeit one with much shorter battery life than the Kindle eBook reader.

Today's announcement shows that Amazon is expanding its Kindle ecosystem well beyond dedicated devices. The company also offers an iPhone version of the Kindle reader. The Kindle for PC application will be available in November.

[via SlashGear]

Download SquadCBS, Amazon launch Windows 7 apps originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazon kindleAmazonKindlecbsnetflixosupdateswindows 7windows media centerwindows7WindowsMediaCenterThu, 22 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix is preparing another bounty for better movie recommendations]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/08/12/netflix-is-preparing-another-bounty-for-better-movie-recommendat/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/08/12/netflix-is-preparing-another-bounty-for-better-movie-recommendat/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/08/12/netflix-is-preparing-another-bounty-for-better-movie-recommendat/#commentsFiled under: ,

Netflix PrizeFor the past few years Netflix has been dangling a $1 million prize in front of geeks willing to attempt to come up with a better movie recommendation algorithm than the one Netflix was using. The goal was to improve the Netflix recommendations by 10%. Last month, two teams topped the 10% mark, and it's likely that one of them will win the prize.

In the meantime, Netflix is already looking ahead. In a blog post, Netflix Chief Product Officer Neil Hunt says the winner of the $1 million prize will be announced in September, and that Netflix is planning a sequel.

There's no word on how much money Netflix will offer this time around, but the company is putting time limits on the contests this time. Instead of competing to improve the accuracy of Netflix recommendations by a certain percentage, Netflix will offer prizes to the teams with the best results after 6 months and 18 months.

[via CNET]

Download SquadNetflix is preparing another bounty for better movie recommendations originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>movie-recommendationsnetflixnetflix-prizenewsWed, 12 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ABC TV shows now streaming on Netflix]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/08/03/abc-tv-shows-now-streaming-on-netflix/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/08/03/abc-tv-shows-now-streaming-on-netflix/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/08/03/abc-tv-shows-now-streaming-on-netflix/#commentsFiled under: ,

Netflix Lost
It wasn't that long ago that you had to go to ABC.com (or a shadier part of the internet) if you wanted to stream TV shows from ABC in your web browser. But recently ABC's parent company Disney signed a deal with Hulu to carry programs including Lost, Grey's Anatomy, Defying Gravity, Castle, and Desperate Housewives. And now ABC has signed a similar deal with Netflix.

Some shows, are available starting this week, and Netflix will roll out additional ABC/Disney shows in the following months. Of course, only paying Netflix subscribers can stream videos from the Netflix web site. For the rest of us (in the United States anyway), the Hulu deal is more exciting. But probably the most exciting thing is the fact that you can now watch ABC programming on two different web sites that lack the ABC.com video player's incredibly annoying interface.

[via NewTeeVee]

Download SquadABC TV shows now streaming on Netflix originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcnetflixtvMon, 03 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix Prize Contest ends after nearly three years]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/07/26/netflix-prize-contest-ends-after-nearly-three-years/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/07/26/netflix-prize-contest-ends-after-nearly-three-years/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/07/26/netflix-prize-contest-ends-after-nearly-three-years/#commentsFiled under: ,


The Netflix Prize Contest, a million-dollar challenge to improve the accuracy of the Netflix recommendation algorithm by 10%, has finally ended after close to three years. One team, BellKor's Pragmatic Chaos, claimed victory by showing a result of better than 10%, which kicked off a 30-day period where other teams would have a chance to top the leading score and win the million. That period has now ended, with another team, The Ensemble, apparently beating BellKor's Pragmatic Chaos by a fraction of a percentage point.

According to the leaderboard, the Ensemble submitted its potential winning entry just 20 minutes after BellKor's Pragmatic Chaos made its final test. The score is 10.10% for Ensemble and 10.09% for BKPC, but the results are now going to judges for testing and verification before the prize is awarded. As a condition of the contest, the teams agree to reveal their algorithms and make them available for Netflix to use in improving its recommendation system.

Download SquadNetflix Prize Contest ends after nearly three years originally appeared on Download Squad on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 23:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestnetflixnewsprizerecommendationSun, 26 Jul 2009 23:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix Prize update: do we have a winner?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/06/28/netflix-prize-update-do-we-have-a-winner/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/06/28/netflix-prize-update-do-we-have-a-winner/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/06/28/netflix-prize-update-do-we-have-a-winner/#commentsFiled under: ,



Back in 2006, Netflix launched a contest to improve its movie recommendation algorithm. To win the Netflix Prize, a team has to improve the accuracy of the Netflix movie recommendations by 10% or more. The prize is a million dollars. Now it looks like one team may have won the contest, with a score of 10.05%. Although several teams had come close, nobody was able to hit the 10% mark until members of four top teams joined forces. It's not over yet, though. Other teams now have 30 days to best the 10,05% result, with the prize going to the best overall score.

BellKor's Pragmatic Chaos, the first team to top 10%, includes researchers from Yahoo and AT&T, and many of the team members have collected Netflix's Yearly Progress Prize for their attempts in previous years. The rules of the contest require that the winning team explain how their algorithm works, and allow Netflix to use their work. This victory may have come sooner than Netflix expected: the contest was scheduled to run until 2011 if no one could come up with a suitable solution before then.

Download SquadNetflix Prize update: do we have a winner? originally appeared on Download Squad on Sun, 28 Jun 2009 08:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>moviesnetflixnetflix-prizenewsSun, 28 Jun 2009 08:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft launches Netflix for Windows Vista Media Center]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/05/20/microsoft-launches-netflix-for-windows-vista-media-center/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/05/20/microsoft-launches-netflix-for-windows-vista-media-center/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/05/20/microsoft-launches-netflix-for-windows-vista-media-center/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Netflix Windows Vista Media Center
People have been hacking together ways to watch streaming videos from Netflix using Windows Media Center since early last year. But now Microsoft and Netflix have rolled out an official Netflix application for Windows Vista Media Center.

In other words, Netflix subscribers can browse through the 12,000 streaming titles available in the Netflix "watch instantly" library and watch them from the comfort of a couch using Microsoft's 10 foot interface and a media center remote control.

Users can also manage their DVD rental queue from Windows Media Center. The feature is powered by Microsoft Silverlight, so you'll need to have that installed on your media center system. It won't work with Media Center Extenders, but you can continue to stream movies via an Xbox 360 if you have an Xbox LIVE Gold membership.

Download SquadMicrosoft launches Netflix for Windows Vista Media Center originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 20 May 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netflixwindows-media-centerwindows-vistawindows-vista-media-centerWed, 20 May 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix rolls out updated recommendation system]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/05/08/netflix-rolls-out-updated-recommendation-system/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/05/08/netflix-rolls-out-updated-recommendation-system/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/05/08/netflix-rolls-out-updated-recommendation-system/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Netflix Prize
Netflix has been a pioneer in the online retail space by providing automated recommendation services that can help you find items that you might like based on your previous video rentals, ratings, and other data. But for the past few years, Netflix has been trying to make its algorithm at least a little bit better through the Netflix Prize contest, which offers cash in exchange for significant improvements to the company's recommendation engine.

And apparently that bounty has been yielding positive results, because Netflix announced this week that it's changed the recommendation system based on improvements submitted through the Netflix Prize contest.

The new algorithm works better for users that rate movies. The system will now predict how many stars you would give movies that you havent' already watched, and that data will affect the movies that are displayed on different personalized sections of the Netflix web site, including the "Movies You'll Love" section.

[via AppScout]

Download SquadNetflix rolls out updated recommendation system originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 May 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdsourcingnetflixnetflix-prizerecommendation-engineFri, 08 May 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Netflix streaming video the future of subscription based TV?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/02/20/is-netflix-streaming-video-the-future-of-subscription-based-tv/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/02/20/is-netflix-streaming-video-the-future-of-subscription-based-tv/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/02/20/is-netflix-streaming-video-the-future-of-subscription-based-tv/#commentsFiled under: ,

LG Blu-Ray player with Netflix support
Over the last few days, Hulu has pulled its streaming TV and movie content from TV.com and Boxee. The move has sparked a lot of criticism, and a lot of theories about what's actually going on. It's clear from the attitude Hulu CEO Jason Kilar is taking that this wasn't his idea. Rather, content owners seem to have requested the move. So what are they up to? Boxee and TV.com were allowing users to watch videos using the same terms as Hulu: The ads remained intact, so content owners should have been getting paid either way.

PaidContent speculates that the TV.com dispute might have been over the rights to display CBS videos on Hulu. Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reports today that cable companies are considering launching their own streaming video services as a value added proposition for subscribers.

Now Netflix CEO Reed Hasting is hinting that his company might launch a streaming video-only service later this year or early in 2010. Right now if you want to watch streaming videos from Netflix you need to pay at least $8.99 for a plan where the company will send you one DVD at a time using that old fashioned mail doohickey.

Continue reading Is Netflix streaming video the future of subscription based TV?

Download SquadIs Netflix streaming video the future of subscription based TV? originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hulunetflixonline-videostreaming-videoFri, 20 Feb 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How to (finally) stream Netflix movies on a Mac]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/11/01/how-to-finally-stream-netflix-movies-on-a-mac/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/11/01/how-to-finally-stream-netflix-movies-on-a-mac/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/11/01/how-to-finally-stream-netflix-movies-on-a-mac/#commentsFiled under: ,

Netflix Mac

The rumors are true: Netflix is beta-testing a new a streaming movie player based on Microsoft Silverlight. As you may have read on Download Squad earlier this week, the new Silverlight-based player is compatible with Microsoft's DRM scheme, which means that, yes, you can finally watch Netflix instantly on your Mac. For Windows users, the player may be an upgrade, but for Mac users, it's a whole new feature.

To try the new player, you'll have to opt in. The first time you try to watch a movie, you'll be prompted to install Silverlight if you don't already have it. From there, you're good to go. Netflix warns that once you opt in, you can only use the Silverlight player, even on other machines. They also mention that the selection of movies for the new player is limited, but I didn't have trouble finding or playing any of the movies I tested.

Download SquadHow to (finally) stream Netflix movies on a Mac originally appeared on Download Squad on Sat, 01 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix TiVo
It's been about 4 years since TiVo and Netflix announced they were working together to stream video to TiVo set top boxes. Since then, Netflix has developed technology that lets you watch videos on a PC, and more recently a Mac, without waiting for a DVD to arrive in the mail. Heck, even the Xbox 360 got more Netflix love than TiVo this year.

But apparently good things come to those who wait. And wait. And wait. Because today TiVo and Netflix have finally announced plans to begin rolling out the "watch instantly" feature to TiVo set top boxes.

Here's how it works. You'll need to be a paying TiVo and Netflix subscriber to use the service. But if you meet those requirements, you'll be able to browse a library of 12,000 movies and TV episodes from your couch using a TiVo Remote control.

The service will only be available to TiVo Series3 and TiVo HD users. Older TiVo units don't have the hardware to handle the video codecs Netflix is using to encode the video.

Download SquadNetflix watch instantly videos heading to TiVo originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netflixonline-videotivoThu, 30 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The users have spoken - Netflix is keeping profiles!]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/30/the-users-have-spoken-netflix-is-keeping-profiles/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/30/the-users-have-spoken-netflix-is-keeping-profiles/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/30/the-users-have-spoken-netflix-is-keeping-profiles/#commentsFiled under: ,

We recently reported on Netflix' decision to get rid of their profile feature, a decision that was not at all popular with customers. Here at Download Squad, we got several comments bemoaning the company's poor judgment and threatening to cancel their subscriptions to the service. Apparently, our readers were not alone. Thanks to pressure from calls, emails and petitions, Netflix has realize their error of their ways and agreed to keep profiles.

Today, Netflix users received this email:

"You spoke and we listened. We are keeping Profiles. Thank you for all the calls and emails telling us how important Profiles are.

We are sorry for any inconvenience we may have caused. We hope the next time you hear from us we will delight, and not disappoint you.

-Your friends at Netflix"

This is completely brilliant on the part of Netflix. They're going to get more goodwill from listening to users and keeping profiles than they ever lost by theatening to take them away. For users, nothing has changed, but the public perception of Netflix is bound to go up, now.

Download SquadThe users have spoken - Netflix is keeping profiles! originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netflixnetflix profilesNetflixProfilesnewsMon, 30 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We think we just saw Ashton Kutcher, cuz you just got Netflix'd!]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/20/we-think-we-just-saw-ashton-kutcher-cuz-you-just-got-netflixd/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/20/we-think-we-just-saw-ashton-kutcher-cuz-you-just-got-netflixd/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/20/we-think-we-just-saw-ashton-kutcher-cuz-you-just-got-netflixd/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Punk'dNetflix users are in an uproar, and rightfully so.

If you're not familiar with what Netflix is, then sorry...please move along.

Kidding...you can rent movies online, and you can create a queue of what you want to see, and they'll mail them to your house as they're available. It's like an autopilot feature and it frakkin rocks.

A few months ago the company put out an even cooler feature that let Netflix account holders create multiple queues under one account. So basically your baby daughter, mom, uncle Steve, and your parrot Whiskers could have their own queue of movies that they want to see.

Such a time saver, such a great function that really reminds you why you use and love (and pay for) Netflix.

Don't go and try to sign up just for that feature though, because Netflix just announced that they're taking it away.

Continue reading We think we just saw Ashton Kutcher, cuz you just got Netflix'd!

Download SquadWe think we just saw Ashton Kutcher, cuz you just got Netflix'd! originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashton kutcherAshtonKutcherfeaturesmoviesnetflixnetflixdpunkdFri, 20 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Netflix streaming movies in Windows Media Center]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/02/11/watch-netflix-streaming-movies-in-windows-media-center/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/02/11/watch-netflix-streaming-movies-in-windows-media-center/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/02/11/watch-netflix-streaming-movies-in-windows-media-center/#commentsFiled under: ,

MyNetflix
For about as long as we can remember, folks have been talking about "the future," when there won't be any real difference between your TV and your computer. You'll be able to walk into the living room and read web pages or watch online videos on your flat panel display just as easily as you could in your office.

Well, we've got a secret for you: The future is already here. Kind of. It's surprisingly easy to hook your computer up to a television set these days, either with a video-out card or a Windows Media Extender. And if you've got Windows Vista, odds are you've got Windows Media Center, which is a 10-foot interface for accessing your audio, video, and picture collections. And now, thanks to a third party plugin you can even use Windows Media Center to watch streaming video from Netflix (assuming you have a Netflix account).

MyNetflix is a free plugin for Windows Vista Media Center that lets you manage your queue. And most importantly, it lets you browse and watch streaming video using the Netflix "watch now" service. Only a portion of the Netflix library is available for streaming, and good luck finding new releases. But we'd much rather watch old movies on our TV than new ones on our laptop.

[via Chris Lanier]

Download SquadWatch Netflix streaming movies in Windows Media Center originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mynetflixnetflixonline-videoqueueMon, 11 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix planning streaming video support for Mac]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/24/netflix-planning-streaming-video-support-for-mac/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/24/netflix-planning-streaming-video-support-for-mac/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/24/netflix-planning-streaming-video-support-for-mac/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Netflix Watch NowSure, Apple may have launched digital movie rentals from the iTunes Store, but Netflix lets you watch videos for free. Well, free if you happen to already have a monthly subscription for their DVD-by-mail service. But while iTunes videos play on a Mac, PC, or Apple TV set top box, right now you can only watch Netflix videos on a PC. That's because the company uses Windows Media DRM to keep you from saving a copy of the streaming videos.

But Netflix is working on a Mac compatible version of its online video service. Silicon Alley Insider reports that during the company's recent earnings call, Netflix announced that Mac support could be coming sometime in 2008. Of course, there's a good 11 months and a few days left in 2008. And since Netflix didn't offer specifics, we're going to go out on a limb and say you might not see Mac support until leaves have grown on the trees and then started to change color. But we'd love to be proven wrong.

Download SquadNetflix planning streaming video support for Mac originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drmnetflixonline-videowatch-nowwindows-mediaThu, 24 Jan 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Download Squad Week in Review]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/19/download-squad-week-in-review/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/19/download-squad-week-in-review/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/19/download-squad-week-in-review/#commentsFiled under:

DLS logoLooking for a good way to load YouTube videos onto your iPod, organize your digital camera photos, keep your Mac software up to date, or protect your privacy while surfing on a public computer? Download Squad's got you covered. Here's a roundup of some our favorite stories from the past week.

Keeping it private (and safe!) on public computers

Ever find yourself looking up health advice or other potentially sensitive information while at the library? Our resident librarian has some tips for protecting your privacy when using public computers. Some tips are common sense: don't enter sensitive data like your social security information on a public PC, but there are some other basic steps you can take to keep your browsing sessions safe.

Tooble: Get YouTube videos on iPod, iPhone, or Apple TV

Sure, programs which download and convert YouTube videos to formats you can watch on a portable media player are a dime a dozen. Cheaper, actually, since most are free. But if you've got a Mac, you owe it to yourself to check out Tooble, a freeware YouTube video converter which does everything you could ever dream and more with just a few clicks.

Continue reading Download Squad Week in Review

Download SquadDownload Squad Week in Review originally appeared on Download Squad on Sat, 19 Jan 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-updateiubonamexifnetflixterminaltoobleweekendreviewwindows-7Sat, 19 Jan 2008 18:00:00 EST