Full FeedWhat does the Netflix set top box mean for the Apple TV?
Netflix has introduced a $100 Apple TV competitor that will offer its users more than 10,000 movies and TV shows with a $8.99/month unlimited subscription plan. Coming in at 5 by 2 inches, this device will offer the same component ports as the Apple TV plus one for S-Video and one for Composite video. It has no hard drive, but rather streams the videos. Netflix chief executive Reed Hastings says, “The key breakthroughs of the Netflix Player are simplicity and cost.” Right now, it’s looking like a pretty serious competitor to the Apple TV if you ask me.
Although, in my opinion, the Netflix box doesn’t look as appealing as the Apple TV, it does offer a pretty great deal. With having two more ports and being $150 less than Apple’s, it could have a serious draw to consumers who are looking to get their first box and don’t want to spend too much. Even though it doesn’t come connected to the popular iTunes store, it does offer a lot of media for a rather cheap price as long as you watch at least two or three movies a month. Should Apple be worried about this?
I don’t really think so. Netflix already has plenty of customers through its mailing service, and I don’t think this device is going to draw any more users. It is more likely to draw the customers who already use Netflix and want even faster access to the movies rather than waiting a day or two for them to ship. Apple still has an edge on this device in my opinion simply because of it’s reputation for the simple interface as well as the endless amount of content through the iTunes Store that goes way beyond movies and TV shows. What do you think?
Subscribe to keep up with the latest Apple news and rumors! - 
Subscribe to our feed
Apple WWDC 2009
WWDC is arguably now the largest Apple event of the year, where Apple will be unveiling more details on iPhone 3.0 and "Snow Leopard," but what else? A new iPhone? An Apple Netbook? Stick with Appletell for complete coverage and in depth looks at the new technologies as they're announced.
Our new podcast: Meet...
We know. Podcasts are so last year - but this one you won't want to miss. Whether it’s a rumor that won’t die, a new product announcement, or just a really good Macintosh or iPhone app find that we have to let you know about, we’ll make sure it’s covered on Appletellcast.
iPhone App Reviews
iPhone Apps. They were great when the App Store was first announced and we could all pick and chose what we wanted, but the number is now overwhelming. Here at Appletell, we'll detail the great iPhone apps we find, and steer you clear from those that aren't worth it even if they're free.
iPhone Game Reviews
As Apple turns the iPhone into one of the most popular gaming devices, the staff of Appletell--gamers and Apple fans alike--are here to help you get the most entertainment value out of your app store purchases.
I am a Mac user. I have Netflix. I can’t use the Netflx web service to watch movies because Netflx’s programmers suck.
My cable company already provides On Demand movies through my cable box. What is the benefit of the Roku?
This is no competitor to Apple TV. This is is just another way to get On Demand style movie watching without an easy to use interface.
on May 21, 2008 at 01:41 PM - LINK@ Khurt:
Agreed. The Netflix doohicky poses as much of a threat to Apple TV as the rumored Blockbuster box did (none at all).
on May 22, 2008 at 06:54 PM - LINK