LG Teams with Netflix on Blu-ray Player
In addition to playing Blu-ray discs, the forthcoming LG BD300 Network Blu-ray Disc Player will up-convert standard DVDs to 1080p and will allow Netflix subscribers to stream movies and TV episodes for no additional charge, the companies said in a statement, noting that they will demonstrate the BD300 at an event in New York tonight.
LG and Netflix first disclosed their partnership in January, but offered few details on what fruits the relationship would bear.
To stream Netflix content, the BD300 player will use a wired broadband connection. It will also tap into the queue-style interface so familiar to Netflix users, whereby they can select a lineup of film choices they which to view. With the BD300, the available selections available will automatically be displayed on users' TVs, ready to watch. Users will also be able to fast-forward and rewind the video stream, according to the statement.
The player will also support BD Live, a feature that provides extra content and special features from Blu-ray discs.
LG is one of a number of vendors rolling out new wares in recent months to capitalize on the anticipated demand for the Blu-ray high-definition DVD format. The company did not disclose pricing for the BD300, which is scheduled for availability this fall.