WSJ: Comcast Takes Aim at Netflix

[jannyk]

>>Comcast Corp. opened a new front in the Internet-video wars Tuesday, unveiling a new subscription service that will compete more directly with online streamer Netflix Inc. The Philadelphia-based cable operator said it plans this week to launch Xfinity Streampix, which will give Comcast video subscribers a selection of older movies and prior-season TV shows that they can watch on TVs and Internet-connected devices. Comcast's service will cost $4.99 a month for most Comcast subscribers, cheaper than Netflix, which offers similar types of programming and charges $7.99 a month.

"We want to be the single stop for video needs for consumers," said Marcien Jenckes, who is in charge of Comcast's video offerings.

And while Streampix is limited to Comcast's video subscribers, the cable operator negotiated expansive content rights with media companies that would allow it to sell the service nationwide to anyone, according to people familiar with the pacts. "We really have no intention to launch something out of our footprint," said Mr. Jenckes. Instead, he said the new Streampix service would make Comcast's existing subscriptions more attractive.<<

[Lydia Leftcoast]

1. I already give Comcast too much money

for Internet service and basic-basic cable. Besides, I bet their selection would be similar to that of Redbox.

Between Netflix, Hulu, and Acorn, I've got more content available than I can watch.

[NV Whino]

2. I'm with Comcast, too

The only reason I signed up was to get faster Internet service to watch Netfix movies. I don't even have my TV hooked up to the cable. Probably going to dump it when my introductory cost jumps to the regular rate in May.

[dixiegrrrrl]

3. What is Acorn?

[Lydia Leftcoast]

4. Acorn TV (online) is one arm of a company that markets British content on DVDs

For $25 per year, you get unlimited streaming of a rotating selection of eight to ten British or Canadian programs. Programs are rotated in and out weekly.

The current selections are:

Wish Me Luck (till 3/25)
Murdoch Mysteries (till 3/25)
Doc Martin, Season 4 (till 3/18)
The Commander, Season 1 (till 3/18)
Midsomer Murders, latest set (till 3/11)
Rosemary and Thyme, Season 3 (till 3/11)
as well as soon-expiring selections of Poirot, Pie in the Sky, Slings and Arrows, and Poldark

http://acornonline.com/acorntv.aspx

[dixiegrrrrl]

5. Pie in the Sky..I LOVED that series!!!

I knew of Acorn catalog ( have one at hand as we speak) but had no idea they offered streaming.
Thanks!