Max Goldberg

Amazon and Apple Adding Video Options, Maybe

September 1, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
In the lead-up to Apple's annual event today, speculation is growing that the company will announce a deal with Netflix to stream movies to consumers through its new and cheaper version of the Apple TV set-top box. Where do you see the video download business heading?      [more...]

Video is clearly headed towards download. As more and more consumers access the Internet through broadband, the ability to download grows. With downloads consumers can watch what they want instantly.

No one company has a clear advantage. Hulu has been around for quite a while (in Internet years), but I've found its delivery to be inconsistent and its ad placement choppy. Apple traditionally offers consumers a more intuitive experience and should seamlessly marry Apple TV with televisions. The company that makes it easiest for consumers to hook up the box and watch what they want, at a value price, will win consumer loyalty.