Digital Home Thoughts: Warner Bros New Releases Delayed 28 Days on Netflix

"Marking the first step in what could be a major change in Hollywood's relationship with Netflix Inc., Warner Bros. has struck a deal with the fast-growing online DVD subscription service that will prevent it from offering new releases until 28 days after they go on sale. The studio is hoping that the four-week "window" will push consumers interested in watching movies at home to purchase the DVD. Warner already imposes an identical window on $1-per-night kiosk company Redbox and its competitors. Although its unilateral move against Redbox has led to a court battle, Netflix agreed to the 28-day window in exchange for improved financial terms, higher inventory levels and increased access to content for its online streaming service."

I'm really kind of disappointed that Netflix caved in to the studios on this one. I completely understand why the studios wanted this, I purchase far fewer DVD's since I got Netflix than I did years ago. But, I'm willing to wait for movies to come out on DVD rather than watching them in the theater, so I'm willing to wait another month. I'm hoping the increased access to online streaming content is worth the trade.