On 1355354252, amirm said...| Just to give you a short version, typical Netflix stream runs at just 2.5 mbit/sec. Compare this to peak of 48 mbit/sec for BD and essentially infinite if you used a hard disk for playback.
Yes, the long download time up front is not good. I think it is a psychological problem for customers. I think they should allow instant streaming option at the same time. The UV support might give them this. The pre-download option might be even better (activate when the movie is officially released).
I doubt that anyone will chase you ever. But they are always chasing Slysoft. There are instances of MKB/BD+ updates that make that software not work for a bit of time. This again is unacceptable to high-end customers.
I agree K needs a viable new strategy. They face significant risks moving forward. They need to bring out a compelling digital service that is differentiated. They have taken a small to medium step here. They need to take a few more :).
I can imagine 2 options around these issues for K customers. First, K already has existing data on the content owned by and installed on a K system. They could use a "Tivo-like" algorithm to download suggested content on to a client's system.
They could transparently download quite a few films onto a system but keep them hidden till one selects them from their store. Thus, access to high end content could be achieved without those long waits.
Ultra-Violet is reported ( so I have heard ) to offer its customers new released theatrical content a few weeks after that film has its theatrical release. What if K* transparently downloaded those titles on to their system and the client would go and purchase it to view. Thus it's just a key to unlock and once unlocked it was available for immediate viewing.
High quality seemingly available for immediate use? Ultra-Violet is carriage trade only but it might be what a K customer would want. iTunes downloads for free various songs on to my phone as a marketing tool. It's transparent. It's just there. If these downloads just showed up and only needed to be unlocked it might get around some of the issues you've outlined.
