As its CFO heads out, new streaming content heads in at Netflix
The video-streaming and DVD-lending giant is inking an expanded deal with Disney
Netflix obviously can't afford to slow down at this point. It is set to roll out its first rate hike in six years for its unlimited movie plans. It will need to make sure that its online catalog continues to expand with titles worth watching.
The value of premium streaming of television shows remains to be seen. Web-savvy couch potatoes already know that they can stream some of ABC's shows through ABC.com and Hulu. Disney owns a chunk of Hulu, along with media partners News Corp.
Further complicating matters, Netflix won't be streaming relevant Disney programming until at least 15 days after the episodes originally air. Less-patient watchers can typically access ABC content through ABC.com a day after the episode airs in a free ad-supported format.
Then again, this is also the same kind of waiting period for Netflix content that will appeal to local affiliates who are already flummoxed over viewers bypassing the original airing.
Netflix and Coinstar's
Terms of the deal aren't being made public, though Netflix is likely to be paying more as it renews -- and expands -- earlier licensing arrangements. The stakes have been raised considerably since it signed its deal with Liberty Starz's
The deals, audiences, and implications are larger now. As Netflix hopes to build on its lead over potential competitors, it probably wouldn't have it any other way.
Can Netflix continue to grow its lead in the digital race? Share your thoughts in the comment box at the bottom of this queue.
