Netflix Finally Hits the iPhone App Store
It was quite some time ago when Netflix was launched for the shiny new iPad, with an iPhone/iPod Touch version “coming soon.” It appears as if the time has arrived – Netflix is now available in the iTunes App Store for both the iPhone and iPod Touch!
Netflix was only available for the iPad until today, August 26th, where they finally launched the iPhone/iPod version. It is 100% free, and you can download it here. You’ll notice it’s not a new app, but now, a universal app – one app will work on all iDevices that can run the App Store.
You can stream netflix content over 3G or WiFi, however, I would imagine video streamed over 3G to be degraded, quality-wise. If this is true, then there is a simple solution through (jailbroken devices only), with 3G Unrestrictor (our review here).
If you are not aware of what Netflix, the service in general, offers, it is basically for movies. There are several ways you can take advantage of Netflix. Once you subscribe to the service, you can rent movies (they have free overnight shipping), or instantly stream movies over your computer, PS3, Xbox 360, anything! The great thing about it is that there is absolutely no software required. You simply need to know your login ID to access it from anywhere!
A service this great needs a way to make revenue – I believe they charge $9 monthly for unlimited movies. This includes both streaming over the internet as well as DVD rentals. The launch of the iPad gave Netflix a great opportunity to expand their business. I can imagine how wonderful movies look on the gorgeous 9.7″ screen. It’s extremely convenient too, since you can take your iPad with Netflix anywhere you want, whether on the couch, bed, etc.! Obviously, only the iPhone/iPad 3G version of the application will allow streaming over 3G, since the iPod Touch can only access the web via WiFi.
Once you are logged into the application, you have a variety of options. You’ll start off at the “home” tab by default. This will show other movies in the same genre as your previously watched ones. It shows the name, a thumbnail, date released, length, and rating. Basically all the general information regarding the movie. Tapping on a movie allows you to either play the movie, add to instant queue, and provides the plot.
The second tab in the Netflix for iPhone application is “Genres.” This is pretty basic, you simply tap on the genre of movie you feel like watching, and it will pull up a long list, arranged in order of popularity.
The third tab is the search bar, nothing special there. If you have something specific on your mind, you can always use this to see if they have it available for instant streaming, as not all movies on Netflix are available to do so.
The last tab is “instant queue.” These are the movies you saved earlier on to watch later, or movies you haven’t quite finished.
Netflix for iPhone is a hit, and you have absolutely no reason not to pick it up, especially since it’s free! Go download it now.
Our Rating: 5/5
