Western Reader
Netflix, the global streaming giant, made a pivotal change in its business model. This shift, one of the most consequential in the company’s 25-year history, came into effect today.
For over two decades, Netflix has been a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. Its DVD service, often likened to a booster rocket, propelled the company into the stratosphere and set the stage for its evolution into a digital powerhouse.
However, as the company continues to evolve, it has decided to bid farewell to its DVD service, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
Today is the last day of Netflix’s dvd rental.#Netflix
— Eric Urbane (@EricUrbane) September 30, 2023
The decision to discontinue the DVD service is a testament to Netflix’s commitment to adapt and innovate in response to changing consumer preferences.
Over the years, the company has transitioned from a movie rental service to a platform more akin to a commercial TV channel. Last year, it introduced advertisements to its content on its cheapest tier, playing before, during, and after shows and films.
Moreover, Netflix has been taking stringent measures against password sharing, compelling more users to create their own accounts, thereby boosting the company’s profits. Under new rules, individuals using someone else’s account will have to create their own logins and pay for their accounts.
Alternatively, those who wish to share an account with people in a different household will have to sign up for ‘paid sharing’ at an additional monthly cost.
To enforce this ban, Netflix tracks IP addresses and device IDs to determine the location of devices using a Netflix profile. This allows the company to identify whether an account is being used on a ‘trusted device’ – that is, if they’re in the same location as other devices using the account.
If there’s a mismatch or any suspicious activity, Netflix can block the ‘untrusted’ device from accessing the account.
Netflix’s 25-year movies-by-mail service has ended after the streaming giant shipped out its final DVD rentals to customers on September 29. https://t.co/H1VTLHuBNi pic.twitter.com/NsnebWZF6F
— IGN (@IGN) September 30, 2023
The decision to end the DVD service, while significant, will not affect the majority of Netflix customers who primarily use the streaming version of the service. However, for those who are still subscribed to the DVD service, they will be able to keep the final discs as souvenirs, according to Netflix.
Despite the nostalgia associated with the iconic red envelopes that changed the way people watched shows and movies at home, the move reflects the reality of an increasingly digital world. Physical media, including DVDs and gaming consoles, seem to be struggling in the face of the growing popularity of streaming services.
Netflix’s decision to end its DVD service, even though it was still profitable, underscores the company’s forward-thinking approach. It is a reminder that in the fast-paced world of technology and entertainment, adaptability and innovation are key to staying relevant and successful.
This article appeared in The Patriot Brief and has been published here with permission.
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