Apple Preparing "iTunes Replay"

Apple may be preparing a service called iTunes Replay. The service will apparently allow users to stream or re-download movies they have already purchased. It would be perfect for the Apple TV. Apple is also rumored to be preparing a subscription based streaming service that could compete with Netflix. This could be unveiled this fall, along-side the iCloud updates. With the uproar over the Netflix price increase, another competitor to Netflix would be incredibly welcome.
via CultOfMac

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How to Leave Netflix and Remain Entertained

The big problem with the Netflix price increase is that there are no direct competitors to Netflix. No other service offers both streaming and dvds through the mail. However, using a combination of other options, you can ditch Netflix once and for all.

Suitable replacements include Hulu, Amazon Video, Youtube, iTunes, Blockbuster, Redbox, Crackle, HBO Go, Crunchy Roll, Fandor, Snagfilms, and more. Gizmodo has a writeup on how to use these other services to replace Netflix, both the streaming and DVD delivery services. Head on over there for details on how you can finally leave Netflix behind.

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Netflix Raises Prices for All Customers

Today, Netflix announced a new pricing structure that guarantees a raised price for most customers. Currently, you can get unlimited streaming and one dvd at a time for $10. A fair price, considering that most people only have the DVD option for the occasional DVD. The streaming service doesn't offer enough movies, and customers don't mind paying $2 for the occasional DVD. This is the plan I have, and I rent maybe one DVD a month.

However, the same plan would cost $16 for the new pricing structure. For many, that's $8 for just one or two movies. With the new plan, streaming and dvd renting is seperate. You can't bundle them for a better deal. This means streaming costs $8, and the most inexpensive DVD option is $8. The only way to get both is to pay $16 per month. Thats a 60% increase over the previous plan.

Angry yet? It gets worse. If you do rent DVDs often, you'll be paying even more, and still paying the full $8 for streaming.

Basically, Netflix announced today that they don't care about their customers. They're not grandfathering accounts, so you'll be paying more no matter what, even if you've been a Netflix customer for years. How's that for a loyalty program?

The lack of competition has inspired them to be as greedy as possible. Blockbuster is going out of business, and Redbox only offers newer movies. If you want access to older movies, you have few options without Netflix.

If you're wondering, this price hike doesn't come with any additional benefits, it doesn't. Streaming won't become any less pathetic, and dvds will still take a day or two to reach your house.

In other news, Redbox still offers movies for just $1 per night. Want to show Netflix what they're worth? Consider canceling your service. Even if it's just for a week, it will send them a message.
via Gizmodo and WSJ

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