In the third such move in a month, a new device was announced that can stream Netflix movies directly onto the television. Previous announcements included players from Roku and Xbox. Only THIS time, it’s LG, and THIS time, it’s combined with a Blu-ray player.
LG and Netflix announced plans for the first Blu-ray disc player that will be able to instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix to the TV. Shipping is planned for the fall. It will play HD Blu-ray, up-convert standard DVDs to 1080p and allow instant streaming of more than 12,000 choices from Netflix for no additional charge to Netflix subscribers.
Using the LG BD300 (that’s the model number) requires a wired broadband connection. Netflix members will use the Netflix Web site to add movies and TV episodes to their individual instant queues. Those choices will automatically be displayed on members’ TVs and available to watch instantly through the LG player. Once selected, movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds. With the BD300’s accompanying remote control, Netflix members will be able to browse and make selections right on the TV screen and also have the ability to read synopses and rate movies. In addition, they will have the option of fast-forwarding and rewinding the video stream.