Netflix is finally working on introducing offline viewing, according to a new report.
A new feature that will allow Netflix subscribers to download programs to view offline is in the works. That’s according to communications industry news site Light Reading, which cites industry sources. One such insider is Dan Taitz, COO of Penthera, a software company that manages media storage.
Taitz is quoted as saying:
“We know from our sources within the industry that Netflix is going to launch this product. My expectation is that by the end of the year Netflix will be launching download-to-go as an option for their customers.”
The article also quoted Day Rayburn, Principal Analyst at Frost & Sullivan, who reportedly confirmed that Netflix is “developing a downloading solution”. Rayburn reportedly said:
“It’s a natural progression for Netflix to want to have some of their content available for consumers to watch offline, and we’ve been hearing for months now that they are in fact going to roll out something soon.”
Netflix has been coy about offering online viewing – already offered by rival Amazon – and has been both open and closed to the idea publicly. Speaking in April, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings said that the firm “should keep an open mind” on offline viewing.
Speaking to Light Reading, a Netflix spokesperson said:
“While our focus remains on delivering a great streaming experience, we are always exploring ways to make the service better. We don’t have anything to add at this time.”
