Rich Fiscus
23 Sep 2011 13:18
Blockbuster and Dish Network have just announced a new package called Blockbuster Movie Pass.
This new service will be similar to the combined disc by mail and streaming service Netflix recently abandoned. It offers unlimited movies and games by mail and streaming video, as well as in-store disc exchange at Blockbuster brick and mortar stores.
The catch is it's only available with a Dish Network subscribtion, although they did indicate Blockbuster may be launching a separate streaming service later for non-Dish subscribers at some point.
Another key feature of Blockbuster Movie Pass is the the availability of Blu-ray at no additional charge. Blu-ray discs cost extra for Netflix customers.
The key question is whether Dish Network's assertion that customers would prefer a streaming and disc rental service which is bundled with pay TV. There's no question such an approach is attractive to content partners, particularly Starz.
Recent trends toward cord cutting seem to suggest customers may be less interested.
Clearly Netflix's recent price increase has left an opening for competition. The bigger question is whether this will do anything to help Dish Network keep customers.
If not, that would seem to artificially limit the program's success.
Blockbuster Movie Pass launches on October 1.