Joystiq

Xbox Live entertainment apps unlocked this weekend, but online gaming remains Gold-only

JC Fletcher — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST

Here's a clear indication of Microsoft's marketing angle for the Xbox 360 in 2012. This weekend, from April 19 to April 23, is a free preview of Xbox Live Gold, meaning even non-paying users will be able to take part in subscription-only functionality at that time.

But not all subscription-only functionality. Microsoft is touting it as a chance to "enjoy all of the customized entertainment app experiences featured on the Xbox LIVE service." It's all about the TV services, and unlike most XBL free weekends, "Multi-player gaming will not be unlocked in this promotion."

In addition to free access to apps like Crackle, Syfy, and Vudu, you can get a free trial of Hulu Plus, Netflix, or EPIX during this period (really, you can get a free trial of Hulu Plus or Netflix any time!). The full list of apps is posted on the promotion's site.

Xbox Live entertainment apps unlocked this weekend, but online gaming remains Gold-only originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix receives underwhelming update on Xbox 360

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST

The Netflix app for Xbox 360 received an update today that improves some functionality, but ignores some long-standing complaints. You now have the ability to skip forward and back during play for movies and TV episodes, and a zoom function for those with 4:3 screens lets you convert letterbox to full screen.

One other notable tweak is social media integration for Facebook users outside of the States. There's also a single sign-on with cloud profiles, allowing members to access Netflix on another Xbox 360 (like, at a friend's house) with sign-in credentials. Handy!

Filed under "still not fixed": TV episodes still start automatically sans individual episode selection screen, and searching is still done with a string of letters, and not a keyboard interface. Maybe next time?

Netflix receives underwhelming update on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox 360 used more for video and music apps than for gaming

Jessica Conditt — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST

More than half of the time people spend on Xbox Live is devoted to watching videos and listening to music, Microsoft's Yusuf Mehdi told the Los Angeles Times. "What we're seeing is that people are turning on the Xbox to play games and then keeping it on afterwards to get other types of entertainment," Mehdi said.

The Xbox 360 isn't a gaming console; it's now officially an entertainment center that includes games, and it's becoming more popular with this angle. Today households spend an average of 84 hours a month playing games and using other apps on Xbox Live, up 30 percent from a year prior. To compare, the average household watches 150 hours of TV each month.

Even before Kinect, a tool that has always made more sense as an entertainment control rather than a gaming one, Microsoft has wanted the Xbox 360 to be "the heart of connected digital entertainment," as HBO senior vice president of consumer technology Otto Berkes put it.

Today Microsoft added MLB.TV, HBO GO and Comcast Xfinity TV apps to its lineup, which already includes Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, Zune, Last.fm and others.

Xbox 360 used more for video and music apps than for gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Twitter, Netflix, and Flickr now available for Vita

JC Fletcher — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:45:00 EST

The PlayStation Vita just got moderately more useful. A suite of apps is available today on the PlayStation Store including Flickr, Netflix, and "LiveTweet." That's the name of the Twitter app. No, we don't know why.

If you're a new Vita owner, you can get them all right now through the PlayStation Store. If you're a prospective Vita owner just waiting to see how the Netflix app shook out, you can see for yourself in this walkthrough from Engadget.

PSA: Twitter, Netflix, and Flickr now available for Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix drops plan to offer video games like it was Qwikster

Jessica Conditt — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:20:00 EST

Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, who you may remember from his ~~Match.com profile video~~ explanation video of Netflix's aborted split into two companies, said Netflix has no plans to offer video games right now, speaking in a Q4 investor meeting today. Hastings didn't offer more details on far-future plans, but he did confirm Netflix is investigating 3D streaming options to supplement its Blu-ray 3D disc service.

For now, it looks like gamers all will be getting is digital and physical disservice.

Netflix drops plan to offer video games like it was Qwikster originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hirai: PlayStation Vita sells 500K, getting Netflix near US / EU launch

Ludwig Kietzmann — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:47:00 EST

Sony's stiff-necked CES presentation has granted another look at PlayStation Vita's commercial impact. Only available in Japan so far, the handheld has now sold 500,000 units, according to Executive Deputy President Kaz Hirai.

If that number is accurate -- and indeed sold, not shipped -- it means we can expect reported Vita sales to be higher this week than the last. During its third week of availability, the Vita had sold just under 43,000 units and fewer than the PSP. If it's reached 500,000 by now, it should have sold approximately 65,000 systems during week four.

In other news, Hirai announced that Netflix's TV and movie streaming service would be accessible through Vita once it launches outside Japan. Netflix is currently working to have it operational in the United States and Europe on "day one."

Hirai: PlayStation Vita sells 500K, getting Netflix near US / EU launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: Netflix live on PS3, Wii in the UK and Ireland; 360 app up later today

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:20:00 EST

As of today, the lands of the UK and Ireland will use Netflix not only as a noun, but as a verb. Today they begin saying, "Wait, you haven't seen that? Netflix it!" The movie rental company's streaming service is available now on PC, certain televisions, PS3 and Wii. The Xbox 360 app will hit later today.

Netflix is available to try at no cost for one month, and after that it's £5.99 or €6.99, depending on your region. Netflix for the UK was announced late last year, shortly after the PR disaster that saw the birth and death of Qwikster in a little under a month. The company's stock is still recovering from the free fall.

PSA: Netflix live on PS3, Wii in the UK and Ireland; 360 app up later today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix streaming to UK, Ireland in 'early 2012'

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:20:00 EST

Movie (and perhaps game) rental service Netflix will launch in the UK and Ireland in early 2012, the currently volatile company announced this morning. Similar to the service's expansion into Canada, the company will only offer its streaming service. Netflix also began streaming in 43 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean in September 2011.

Netflix stated that streaming will be available on TVs "via a range of consumer electronics," but no specific consoles are mentioned. Streaming will also be available on PCs, Macs and mobile devices. Specifics about pricing, content and supported devices will be announced closer to launch.

This is a bit of good news from the company that recently crawled out of a PR debacle and has seen its stock drop by over half, following several missteps over the past three months.

Netflix streaming to UK, Ireland in 'early 2012' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix cans Qwikster, service staying whole

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:39:00 EST

Talk about your qwik turnaround. Netflix CEO Reed Hastings announced this morning that Netflix won't split into two separate services as planned. The news comes less than a month after the company's stock went into freefall following its announced split into disc-based and streaming entities named Qwikster and Netflix, respectively.

"It is clear that for many of our members two websites would make things more difficult, so we are going to keep Netflix as one place to go for streaming and DVD," Hasting wrote on the company's official blog this morning. "This means no change: one website, one account, one password... in other words, no Qwikster."

There is no update on Netflix's desire to enter the video game rental space in Hastings' post. We are currently following up with the company to find out if those plans have changed too.

Update: A Netflix spokesperson tells the New York Times that the company has yet to determine whether it will move forward with the video game rental plan.

Netflix cans Qwikster, service staying whole originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 remote control updated with TV, Netflix controls

JC Fletcher — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

In "late October," Sony will release a new version of its PS3 remote control peripheral, which is now designed to work not only with the PS3, but with TVs and Sony amplifiers as well. Commensurate with those new functions, it has volume and channel controls at the bottom of the device -- where the vast expanse of nothing was on the previous version. Sony says it also works with Netflix now.

If you have a keen memory for media remotes, and a keen eye for the tiny images on Sony's website, you'll recognize this as the updated remote Sony released in Japan back in March, finally making its way stateside. The new remote hasn't been priced yet, but the original sold for $25.

PS3 remote control updated with TV, Netflix controls originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GameFly expresses confidence as Netflix muscles in

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:20:00 EST

GameFly is putting on a strong face as it prepares for its greatest competitor to the game rental space to date: Netflix. Well, the behemoth's disc distribution division is called Qwikster now -- a change that's taking folks some time to wrap their brains around -- but the fact remains: Netflix's distribution network is an efficient beast. It is a key aspect GameFly has struggled with over the years.

"GameFly has expanded steadily over the past nine years by focusing exclusively on video gamers. We are the only retailer offering games physically and digitally for both rental and purchase," GameFly responded in a statement when asked about Qwikster. "Gamers can try before they buy, choosing from new releases and classic titles that span the last decade. GameFly has more than 8000 games for 10 console and handheld systems to choose from, and over 1500 Windows/Mac games are available for download."

GameFly is preparing for the digitally distributed future with acquisitions like Direct2Drive, which will allow the company to add "Unlimited PC Play" for free to its service offerings this holiday.

"GameFly is the leading video game rental service, and we have continued to grow even as Blockbuster and Redbox increased their investment in console games."

Qwikster has yet to show how serious it is about the game space, nor has it given an idea about the price for its games 'n' flix service -- wait, that's probably not the best term to use.

GameFly expresses confidence as Netflix muscles in originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix's DVD division renamed 'Qwikster,' adds games-by-mail

Jordan Mallory — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 01:30:00 EST

Netflix made waves a few weeks ago when it split its streaming and DVD-by-mail services into two separate plans with separate prices, but these measures were apparently more preparatory than reactionary, it seems. Netflix CEO Reed Hastings has announced that the movie megalith's DVD-by-mail devision will be separated from its streaming services and spun off into its own company: Qwikster.

Qwikster, which will officially launch "in a few weeks," will be a completely independent entity from Netflix; the two services will not integrate in any way, meaning two different websites, two different accounts, and two different bills. What's truly out of left field, however, is the fact that Qwikster will also offer PS3, 360 and Wii titles by way of a "video game upgrade option" similar to Netflix's existing Blu-Ray upgrade system.

Despite the fact that Qwikster will be its own corporate entity with its own CEO, Hastings stresses that the transition is "merely a renamed version of the Netflix DVD website, but with the addition of video games." It will be interesting to see how the service fares without Netflix's all-powerful brand recognition, and what impact (if any) the change will have on other game-by-mail services like GameFly. For now, we just hope this news somehow translates into more SGT. Frog episodes getting added to Instant Play.

Netflix's DVD division renamed 'Qwikster,' adds games-by-mail originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Xbox Live Fall Dashboard preview: From 'nonsense' to Metro

David Hinkle — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:20:00 EST

Terry Farrell, senior product manager of Xbox Live entertainment, is pretty excited about the new Fall Dashboard update. As the individual who partners with first and third-party video content providers, he's the go-to guy to talk to about Microsoft's future plans for offering video content. Too bad he couldn't get too specific with us.

Continue reading Xbox Live Fall Dashboard preview: From 'nonsense' to Metro

Xbox Live Fall Dashboard preview: From 'nonsense' to Metro originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MS: 42% of US XBL Gold members watch average of 1hr of video content a day

David Hinkle — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST

With Hulu Plus, Netflix and Zune on the Xbox 360, now more than ever the console is becoming a bastion for those looking to digest video content. During a preview of the upcoming Fall Dashboard update for Xbox Live, I spoke with senior product manager of Xbox Live entertainment, Terry Farrell, and asked him for some hard data.

"42 percent of Xbox Live Gold members in the U.S. are watching an average of an hour of television and movies on their Xbox, every single day," Farrell said. Each month, that adds up to "more than 30 hours of digitally distributed television and movies." Farrell also revealed that over the last year, Xbox Live has seen three times the use of video content on the Xbox 360 console, spread across Netflix, Hulu Plus and Microsoft's Zune rental service.

With the new Fall Dashboard update, Microsoft is looking to make it easier to present this video content, both through use of Bing search (which works via the controller and Kinect) and what the company hopes is a more intuitive and navigable user interface. Also, YouTube.

MS: 42% of US XBL Gold members watch average of 1hr of video content a day originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Half of all Netflix users connect via a game console,' Nintendo Wii used most

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST

Sorry Jackie boy, but it seems that Sony's PlayStation 3 has been dethroned as king of streaming Netflix. That's according to a recent Nielsen survey that pegs the Nintendo Wii as the most used device in households to stream Netflix (outside of the computer, of course), and puts all three gaming consoles in the lead in terms of Netflix streaming to devices.

The survey, based on 12,000 online interviews in March 2011, weighs a variety of devices against each other in terms of Netflix and Hulu streaming, from Apple TV on the low end at just one percent market share, to "Directly on Computer" as the most employed method at 42 percent for Netflix and 89 percent for Hulu. The Xbox 360 brought up the bottom of the list in terms of game consoles, with just 12 percent of Netflix users going that route and two percent of Hulu users.

The real bizarre factoid in this graph is that the Nintendo Wii is also (just barely) streaming more Hulu content than the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 -- especially odd considering there's no official support for Hulu on the Wii. We've reached out to Nielsen for clarification on that possibly erroneous statistic.

Update: Nielsen explained the Hulu on Nintendo Wii statistic as such: "The reason the survey shows 3% answering this way can be attributed to respondent error, which is common in survey research. In other words, because the survey measures self-reported usage, there can be a small margin of error in which some respondents will answer this way."

'Half of all Netflix users connect via a game console,' Nintendo Wii used most originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1.5 million daily Netflix users are on Wii

David Hinkle — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 02:00:00 EST

Today, Nintendo was quick to boast about its Wii numbers -- at least, the number of owners who spent some time not playing Wii games. The company claims that 1.5 million Netflix users are accessing streaming on the Wii daily. The service launched on Nintendo's home console back in April of 2010.

As of yesterday, you could access Netflix's video service through your 3DS. As we said in our quick impressions video, it'll probably do in a pinch if you're away from your consoles and within Wi-Fi range.

1.5 million daily Netflix users are on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Select' 3D movies not coming to 3DS soon [update]

JC Fletcher — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:25:00 EST

Update: Just a scant eight hours later, Nintendo has clarified its promise of " an additional library of select 3D movies" for the 3DS. The clarification in short? "Nah."

"The press release announcing the new Netflix service for Nintendo 3DS also references the system's upcoming short-form video service," Big N said in a written statement. "Nintendo 3DS owners soon will be able to enjoy free, specially selected video content that includes 3D movie trailers, comedy clips and music videos." This is, of course, the short form video service we learned of in March.

Just to be clear, by "an additional library of select movies," Nintendo meant "the new Bruno Mars video and the trailer for Big Momma Goes to the Big House."

We haven't struck through all the text of the original post after the jump -- but just know it's a non-story.

Continue reading 'Select' 3D movies not coming to 3DS soon [update]

'Select' 3D movies not coming to 3DS soon [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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See the Netflix 3DS app in action

Justin McElroy — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST

You know Netflix. You know 3DS. But can you conceive of what the two would look like ... together? You almost certainly can. But now that we've introduced that seed of doubt, the possibility that you may be wrong, can you resist checking the above video for yourself to reestablish your faith in your deductive powers?

We suspect that you can not.

See the Netflix 3DS app in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NintendoWare Weekly: Netflix, Game & Watch Gallery, 3D Pixel Racing

JC Fletcher — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST

The biggest release on 3DS this week isn't a game at all. It's the Netflix app! Should you decide to watch movies while you're near a Wi-Fi signal but not a TV and a streaming-capable device, now you're all set.

The 3DS also sees a pair of Virtual Console releases, including one that is, itself, a collection of even older games. And WiiWare hosts 3D Pixel Racing, a racer set in a 3D Dot Game Heroes-esque voxel environment.

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Netflix, Game & Watch Gallery, 3D Pixel Racing

NintendoWare Weekly: Netflix, Game & Watch Gallery, 3D Pixel Racing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nintendo 3DS gets free Netflix update in tomorrow's eShop update

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST

Since Nintendo's 3DS launched back in March, we've been hanging on by a thread, counting the minutes until this week's eShop update. And no, it's not just because Extreme Hangman 2 is finally dropping on DSiWare: Netflix's streaming video application will be available on 3DS as well. Finally a chance to bring Agent Cooper on the go and make those smug short-form video users in Europe and Japan quit their braggin'!

Nintendo revealed as much with an early announcement of its weekly eShop, DSi, and Wii Shop updates, also detailing several games that will be available for purchase across the Wii, DSi, and 3DS. We're particularly fond of the Virtual Console Game & Watch Gallery coming to 3DS, but fans of super old-school sports games may be more excited to hear about Baseball being this week's other retro re-release.

Nintendo 3DS gets free Netflix update in tomorrow's eShop update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kinect-controlled Netflix available today on Xbox 360

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:55:00 EST

It's only been 25 days since spring officially started, but it appears that Microsoft is already rolling out one of its promised spring updates -- Kinect-enabled Netflix control. That's right, folks, now you can wave your arms and speak commands directly at your Xbox when you've had enough Say Yes to the Dress for one evening.

We imagine Kinect will work in a pretty cursory capacity -- as the announcement video demonstrated -- with the release describing two options for accessing Netflix via Xbox 360: "With Xbox LIVE, take your Xbox 360 online and browse the full Netflix library to find the movie or TV show that you want, or launch Netflix from the Kinect Hub and select from one of the recommended titles using your voice and hand gestures as the remote control." Well, that sounds ... limited!

A Microsoft representative further detailed Netflix's Kinect functionality to us on the phone, saying that all Netflix films will be navigable with Kinect, but only "recommended films" through the Kinect sub-Dashboard Netflix application will be selectable. In so many words, you still have to start playing the majority of films with a controller, though all can be controlled with Kinect after they start playing.

Continue reading Kinect-controlled Netflix available today on Xbox 360

Kinect-controlled Netflix available today on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Get Sam & Max season 3 for free with Netflix trial

JC Fletcher — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST

If you don't have Netflix yet, and don't have Sam & Max Season 3, then this offer from Telltale is a totally random match made in heaven.

For some reason, through April 4, US and Canada residents can get the PC or Mac version of The Devil's Playhouse for free when they sign up for a one-month trial of Netflix, allowing you to catch up on a full season of Telltale's adventure game as you catch up on full seasons of Charmed. The season normally costs $34.99 on its own, and does not usually come with a month of free streaming television.

Get Sam & Max season 3 for free with Netflix trial originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix and 'short-form video service' coming to Nintendo 3DS

Andrew Yoon — Wed, 02 Mar 2011 12:43:00 EST

Why should the 3DS' futuristic screen be relegated to games only? Nintendo has announced two media services for the upcoming handheld. First, Netflix is coming to the 3DS, allowing you to watch a movie on the go ... and then finish watching at home using your Wii.

In addition, Nintendo will offer a "short-form video service," which will offer "curated" (i.e., in 3D) content, such as comedy shorts, music videos and movie trailers. These features won't be available at launch, but will be available via a system update in "late May."

Netflix and 'short-form video service' coming to Nintendo 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hulu Plus, Netflix getting Kinect-enabled this Spring [Update: Video demo added!]

Mike Schramm — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 22:10:00 EST

Microsoft has just announced at its CES Keynote this year that both the Netflix and Hulu Plus streaming services are getting Kinect-enabled later on this Spring. Hulu Plus was announced last year as launching in "early 2011," but it sounds like you'll have to wait until Spring to see that content on your Xbox.

Kinect's program manager Ron Forbes demonstrated both services on the stage here in Las Vegas, and it looked like what you'd imagine -- both services let you flip through video and use your voice to play, pause, and select what to watch. So Spring update for the console confirmed?

Continue reading Hulu Plus, Netflix getting Kinect-enabled this Spring [Update: Video demo added!]

Hulu Plus, Netflix getting Kinect-enabled this Spring [Update: Video demo added!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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OnLive releases iPad app, reveals subscription-based movie streaming coming in 2011

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

According to a report this morning, OnLive is launching a subscription-based movie streaming service on an undisclosed date in 2011. The news comes from the Wall Street Journal (subscription required), who cites growing concern among media companies that Netflix has grown too large on its own and diversification is desired (read: they want a piece of the large, money-filled pie as well).

In other OnLive news, the streaming-only company released its first iPad app today (creatively dubbed "OnLive Viewer"). The application allows user to see what's available for instant streaming (on a computer, not on your iPad), see other players' "brag clips," and watch trailers. Though the app has an official page on Apple.com, we're having some issues downloading it at the moment, but that could just be release hiccups.

Then again, you're probably already watching trailers (and reading news, reviews, previews, and so much more!) on your Joystiq iPhone App, right? Good! Glad to hear it!

Update: The App is currently only available in New Zealand, which explains our downloading issues. We understand that the App goes live for US residents tonight at 11:00PM EST. Enjoy your temporary exclusivity, Kiwis!

OnLive releases iPad app, reveals subscription-based movie streaming coming in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix testing three different interfaces on PS3

Mike Schramm — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:15:00 EST

If you ever load up the Netflix app on your PS3 and suddenly feel as if you're being experimented upon, here's why: Netflix is reportedly showing off three different user interfaces to users of its service on the PlayStation 3, in order to test out the various recommendations systems and how they're both created and delivered to users. Chief Product Officer Neil Hunt says the "Play" and "Add to Queue" buttons' size, placement, and functionality can vary from build to build, and even things like load times and streaming start times are being adjusted among the various test UIs running on real-life PS3s, providing direct feedback to the company about how customers use the video streaming app.

Hunt says he can boil down what they're learning to just three words: "Simple trumps complete." We'll make it easy for you, Netflix. Make one simple UI for all of us to use.

Netflix testing three different interfaces on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix launches streaming-only plan in US

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:35:00 EST

Netflix, currently available in North America on all major consoles, has officially announced a $7.99 streaming-only plan for the US (it's the only option available in the Great White North). For those who prefer their media to be disc-based, the service will be upping prices across the board for all unlimited plans by a few dollars, but you'll still get streaming included.

Netflix's streaming-only plan comes at a time when Hulu (the established DVD-by-mail service's heir apparent) begins building a base on consoles. Hulu Plus currently offers mostly TV show streaming (with commercials) on PS3 for $7.99, with other consoles expected to be supported sometime in the future.

Netflix launches streaming-only plan in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft: Xbox Live Gold subscribers use service 3 hours per day

Ludwig Kietzmann — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 21:21:00 EST

Dennis Durkin, COO and CFO of Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business, wants to keep you engaged. In his presentation at the BMO Capital Markets Annual Digital Entertainment Conference in New York today, Durkin highlighted how the social Xbox Live ecosystem, in conjunction with content provided by both Microsoft and third-party partners, is designed to provide ceaselessly entertaining ensnarement.

More than half of Xbox Live's 25 million users are paying subscribers, which means that over 12 million players make use of the service's online multiplayer and non-gaming offerings, like the streaming ESPN3 service. "Those are very, very engaged customers, which is a good business," Durkin said. On average, paying subscribers use Xbox Live for 3 hours a day. Before you calculate how many Black Ops matches fit into that period, keep in mind that users spend forty percent of their Xbox time using non-headshot services -- like listening to music on Last.fm, watching a movie on Netflix or rapidly exiting the Facebook app that they accidentally clicked on.

Keeping users "engaged" and interacting with the system is "really, really key for any business," Durkin said. He also pointed out that Xbox Live's digital transactions business (think: downloadable content, Games on Demand) is actually bigger than its subscriptions business. Again, Durkin emphasized that good content was crucial in keeping players connected, "and our marketplace allows for that." And to keep you engaged, Microsoft needs to keep its content-creating partners engaged too. "Obviously, the majority of the revenue that we get in this segment of our business, we share with our partners."

[We had a "circle of Live" joke here to cap off the ecosystem discussion, but we deleted it.]

Microsoft: Xbox Live Gold subscribers use service 3 hours per day originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 21:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix native app for Wii available now

Alexander Sliwinski — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 08:37:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

A Netflix app that will allow movie streaming on Nintendo's Wii, without the need for a pesky disc, is available now on the Wii Shop Channel. The Netflix channel is free and streaming comes at no extra charge as part of most Netflix rental plans.

Today also marks the launch of the PS3's Netflix app, which supports 1080p HD output, 5.1-channel surround sound, subtitles and alternative audio tracks. Finally, Xbox 360 owners should receive an update to their Netflix app with the fall update. Isn't it nice to put aside those fanboy squabbles for a change, knowing that everyone can watch hours of television on their video game systems without even touching a disc?

Netflix native app for Wii available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 08:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix native app for PS3 available on Oct. 18

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

The disc-free Netflix application for PlayStation 3 will be available in the States next Monday, October 18. Sony has said the PS3 system will be the "first consumer electronics device" to support 5.1-channel surround sound for Netflix's streaming library of movies and films. Some media will also be viewable in 1080p and "an increasing number" will feature subtitles or alternative audio tracks. The app also features a fancy search option that allows users to update their regular queue.

Canadians began enjoying a native app a couple weeks back, albeit with a significantly less robust library compared to their southern brothers. Xbox 360 owners will also receive an update to their Netflix app whenever the fall update goes live. Check out Sony's Eric Lempel giving a tour of the new app after the break.

Continue reading Netflix native app for PS3 available on Oct. 18

Netflix native app for PS3 available on Oct. 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video tour: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard update

David Hinkle — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST

Join us in our video preview of the upcoming Xbox 360 Dashboard update. While Microsoft keeps the Kinect component under wraps, we've got plenty to show you: there's the promised ESPN content, updated Netflix functionality (now featuring "search") and, of course, the new Dashboard UI. Oh, and Avatars are looking a bit different and sporting some new features.

Hit a link below to jump to the corresponding video or watch them all after the break.

Dashboard and Family Settings | ESPN | Netflix Search | Avatars

Gallery: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard Update (Zune and ESPN)

Continue reading Video tour: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard update

Video tour: Xbox 360 Fall 2010 Dashboard update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix launches in Canada, console access detailed

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Movie service Netflix is ready to serve the Great White North. Shacknews reporter Xav de Matos (former Joystiqer, still Canadian) notes the service is currently available on PS3 and Wii, with the Xbox 360 version rolling out later.

PS3: Available now. It's an application, so no disc is required (unlike the States). However, users have no ability to create an instant watch queue.
Wii: Available now. Disc from Netflix.ca required. Also, no ability to build an instant watch queue.
Xbox 360: Coming "soon."

The streaming-only option for Canada costs $7.99 a month and also includes access through PCs and Apple devices.

Netflix launches in Canada, console access detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix gets Paramount, Lionsgate and MGM movies

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Netflix on your console is about to get much better. Starting September 1, movies from the Epix TV channel will hit instant streaming. Movies will arrive 90 days after premiering on Epix, which is run by MGM, Paramount and Lionsgate, amounting to a major addition the Netflix streaming library.

Netflix gets Paramount, Lionsgate and MGM movies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 Netflix adds search option

Andrew Yoon — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:50:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Netflix just became a lot easier to use on the PS3. No, you still need a disc (for now), but the application has been stealthily upgraded with the ability to search for and watch videos from the entire Instant library. For example, typing the letter "A" quickly revealed Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Unfortunately, the Xbox Live and Wii versions of Netflix don't appear to have been updated with this feature yet. Xbox owners will have to wait until November.

[Thanks, Rusty Jack!]

PS3 Netflix adds search option originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix on PS3 going disc-less by October

Randy Nelson — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 20:01:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Tired of ~~popping~~ slotting a disc into your PS3 every time you want to watch a streaming Netflix movie or TV show? Soon you won't have to, as the online video rental service has plans to make Netflix Instant Streaming a native PS3 application by the end of October.

In delivering his company's Q2 2010 financial results, CEO Reed Hastings stated, "Before our next [earnings] call in October, we expect to be launching a major new version of our Sony PS3 user interface which doesn't require a disc, and is dynamically updated continuously with the latest Netflix UI improvements."

So, there you have it. When contacted for comment, PS3's Hulu Plus app said that it "welcomes the competition for media streaming on PS3 ... and prime placement on the XMB."

[Thanks, Vallanthaz]

Netflix on PS3 going disc-less by October originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix streaming headed to Canada this fall

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

"Finally!" We have to imagine that's what millions of Canadians are shouting at the top of their lungs this morning, as Netflix announced plans to launch a streaming-only service in America's northern cousin sometime "this fall." That said, French Canadians take note: the service will only be launching in English, with a French option to follow "over time."

So will the service be accessible through Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii, as it is in the US? According to the announcement, "Canadian Netflix members will be able to instantly watch a broad array of movies and TV episodes right on their TVs via a range of consumer electronics devices capable of streaming from Netflix, as well as watching on PCs and Macs."

A Netflix representative told Joystiq this morning, "We're not announcing the Netflix ready devices until the service launches, but it's fair to assume that several popular, brand name devices will be capable of streaming from Netflix to TVs at launch - in addition to the ability to watch instantly on computers -- and that we'll add to the family of devices over time."

While the service doesn't launch until this fall, interested Canadians can head over to the Netflix Canada website right now and sign up for ongoing, (presumably) more specific notifications about when "streaming instantly" will go live.

[Thanks, Chris D.]

Netflix streaming headed to Canada this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jul 2010 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix search finally coming to Xbox 360 in November

David Hinkle — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:50:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

While Microsoft showed a dizzying array of new things at its E3 keynote, one new feature could only be found buried within the press release: Netflix search. This November, subscribers will be able to search for content through their Xbox 360 and update their queue accordingly. Sadly, we don't have the exact date in November, but we're betting it'll be somewhere around that other big thing happening in November.

Netflix search finally coming to Xbox 360 in November originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GameStop 'PowerUp Rewards' beta launches

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 24 May 2010 15:07:00 EST

The GameStop "PowerUp Rewards" beta has launched in "select areas," according to its website, which details the retailer's previoulsy proposed, new loyalty card program. PowerUp Rewards offers two memberships: a free version and a $15 "Pro" version. The free option entitles card holders to 10 Rewards "points" per dollar spent on new games and consoles, and 20 points per dollar spent on used purchases or earned through trade-ins. The Pro choice adds a buy two, get one free "welcome offer," 10 percent discounts and bonus points on various transactions, and a one-year Game Informer subscription. (The two enrollment options are more fully compared in the handy chart after the break).

Points can be put towards various rewards, including gift cards and Netflix subscriptions. Additionally, all PowerUp Rewards members receive "exclusive" offers, which could include special sales, early beta access to certain titles or invitations to events. A Kotaku tipster told the site that the program is currently available in Ohio, Tennessee and Missouri, though GameStop recently said the beta program would feature "four regions" and roll out in full this fall.

If you're a GameStop employee or new PowerUp Rewards member with more information on the program, we'd love to hear from you.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading GameStop 'PowerUp Rewards' beta launches

GameStop 'PowerUp Rewards' beta launches originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 May 2010 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix releases Wii-specific commercial

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 13 May 2010 16:45:00 EST

Netflix movie streaming may be available on all the major consoles in the States now, but it's the demographic-busting Wii that most recently got some high-quality ad treatment from the rental service. In the commercial, a gallant knight is off to fulfill his destiny and leaves "a piece" of himself behind for a young maiden. Without getting into the Freudian subtext oozing out of the ad, it's a pretty clever piece of marketing. Check it out after the break.

[Via GoNintendo]

Continue reading Netflix releases Wii-specific commercial

Netflix releases Wii-specific commercial originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 May 2010 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Reggie: five million Wiis sold this year; almost a million have 'participated' in Netflix

David Hinkle — Tue, 04 May 2010 12:30:00 EST

Nintendo's had quite the start this year, president Reggie Fils-Aime revealed during a recent CNBC interview (that you can watch after the break). Both the Wii and DS are performing exceedingly well in 2010, Fils-Aime reported -- a level of success we're certain Nintendo isn't familiar with.

"In the last four months, consumers have bought over five million Wii consoles," Fils-Aime boasted. He was quick to jab competitors Sony and MIcrosoft as well, stating "that amount is equal to the entire amount that our competitors have sold over the previous 12 months."

Fils-Aime also offered a neat statistic on Wii Netflix usage. Since launching on the console in March, "almost a million" have participated in the service. He added that "we're getting great consumer compliments."

Fils-Aime said that the DS has been selling extremely well and that "we think that through April that we'll have the best four month time period to kick off a new calendar year that we've ever had with the device." We'd comment but, really, doesn't this happen every year?

Update: We were contacted by Charlie Scibetta, senior director of corporate communications for Nintendo of America, who offered this clarification on Reggie's reported sales figures: "The sales figures referenced in the CNBC interview were not for the first four months of calendar year 2010, but rather the last four months of current publicly reported NPD data which runs December of 2009 through March of 2010." Well now, we're glad that's all cleared up!

[Via Edge]

Continue reading Reggie: five million Wiis sold this year; almost a million have 'participated' in Netflix

Reggie: five million Wiis sold this year; almost a million have 'participated' in Netflix originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 May 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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