Netflix is now sending out instant-streaming discs to Nintendo Wii owners, so Wii gamers who are Netflix subscribers will have access to the company's net connected instant viewing services.
Netflix first announced Wii streaming support last January, but a launch date wasn't specified.
The new service isn't open for everyone just yet, as Netlix looks to work with early testers who are expected to find and report bugs.
Netflix, still known as the snail mail rental DVD company, has continued to expand its movie business to new markets. Along with offering support for instant viewing on the Microsoft Xbox 360, Sony PlayStation 3 and the Nintendo Wii, Netflix plans to offer support on many other devices. The Roku Netflix player, some HDTV's and several standalone Blu-ray players also have integrated Netflix support.
The company still plans to keep its DVD mail rental service open, though some analysts predict that it will shut down sometime in 2011. That seems highly unlikely.
During the PS3 instant streaming disc launch, Netflix mailed out 100,000 discs to users and full public service began within days. It's unknown how many discs were sent out to Wii owners, and it's unknown when streaming Netflix support will be available for all users.
Streaming Netflix through the Wii requires an unlimited rental plan -- starting at $8.99 per month. A streaming disc can be easily requested on the Netflix site via an online request form.
Nintendo gives Japanese Wii owners the option of viewing pay-per-view content, but it hasn't opened up the service to North American owners. Expanding digital content is important for Nintendo now that the PS3 is continuing to climb the sales chart.
