The Future of Streaming

The success of NetFlix has transformed the way many of us rent movies. As traditional movie rental companies such as Blockbuster continue to decline there’s even more competition in the forecast with the onset of streaming video rentals. Companies such as Apple, Amazon, Walmart and now Best Buy among others are quickly getting into the game. So what does this mean for you? Check out our  quick breakdown of the features and prices of each as well as a benefit that may make the difference for you. Also, take our streaming poll!

• CinemaNow (Best Buy) – The latest to join the pack, Best Buy offers HD streaming video currently for PC users only as well as through internet connected LG TV’s + Blu-Ray players, Xbox among others. Costs: $1.99 for TV episodes and $2.99 for regular movies and $3.99 for new releases as well as the ability to purchase movies anywhere from $9.95 to $19.99. Cool Factor: Ability to integrate all media components via Windows 7 Media Center instead of piecing together the good parts of Net Flix, Hulu and an Apple TV without space constraints through one unique interface.
  

• NetFlix - HD Streaming available for both Mac and PC users as well as a plethora of other devices including gaming consoles, streaming players, internet connected TV’s + blu-ray players, DVR’s and more. Costs: Cheapest Plan: $4.99 / month for traditional DVD rental, (1) DVD out a time + 2 hours of streaming video. Best Deal: $8.99 /month includes traditional DVD rental, (1) DVD out a a time + unlimited streaming video. Cool Factor: Most already have a Netflix account and for $8.99 a month unlimited streaming, is an awesome deal! Plus they have an app for both the iPhone and iPad!
• Apple iTunes - Available for both Mac and PC Users, HD Streaming is available for the iPad and Apple TV. Costs: $2.99 for regular movies and $3.99 for new releases + $1 for HD and purchase movies from $9.99 for older movies and $14.99 for new releases. Apple TV $229 + Apple iPad starts at $499. Cool Factor: Use your iPhone as your remote with a free app!
• Amazon OnDemand Video - HD Streaming available for both Mac and PC users. Several devices can be used to access the service including gaming consoles, internet connected TV’s, Blu-Ray Players, DVR’s including TiVo and Roku  and more. Cost: $2.99 for regular movies and $3.99 for new releases. TV: $1.99 per episode or buy an entire season for approximately $35. Cool Factor: Amazon’s “unboxed” feature allows you to watch movies when you’re not connected to the internet, this is very handy for constant travelers who don’t want to shell out additional dollars for WiFi!
  
• Vudu (Recently purchased by Walmart) – Streaming HD available through an internet connected HDTV or Blu-Ray player. Costs: $2.99 for regular movies + $3.99 for new releases (more $ for HD, maximum is $6 a movie). Cool Factor(s): More HD titles to choose from (currently over 2,000!) + Free OnDemand Television!
• You Tube – That’s right, YouTube is now in the rental business! Costs: TV episodes and movies are available for rent between $0.99 to $3.99 through Google Checkout. The content is diverse including SunDance films, documentaries, Bollywood and Anime. Downside: There is currently no easy way to transport the content to a mobile device or TV, so grab your laptop and enjoy the show.
• Hulu – This awesome free streaming service allows you access on any computer and is available with an internet connected TV. A wide variety of your favorite TV shows and movies are available. Hulu is free because its ad supported so be prepared to see a few advertisements, although mostly cleverly hidden and a simplistic interface make this a great way to view what you’re into especially when on a budget! If your TV isn’t internet ready grab your laptop and enjoy the show!