Netflix and Sony have agreed to a new partnership deal in which Netflix subscribrs will be able to stream Netflix content directly to some Sony Bravia TV models.
The new service will begin this fall and will be available to any Netflix subscriber with a Sony Bravia Internet video-capable HDTV and an unlimited Netflix movie subscription. Sony Bravia TV owners also can visit Amazon Video on Demand, Sony Pictures, Sports Illustrated, YouTube, Dailymotion, and several other Internet sites as well.
Streaming Netflix will be supported on Sony TVs ranging from the XBR9 series, to the W5100 series, and X5100 series, the companies said in a statement. Other Sony TVs just need to add the Sony Bravia Internet Video Link to receive streaming support, though it costs around $200.
The announcement was publicly posted on the Netflix blog, though most comments, rather than showing support, mention a request for Sony PlayStation 3 support, Linux support for streaming Netflix, and full support for Boxee.
Netflix has worked diligently to collaborate with Microsoft, Roku, Samsung, LG Electronics, Tivo and Vizio, among others, as the company aims to bring its streaming service into more living rooms. Although the company isn't planning to drop its DVD rental business any time soon, Netflix hopes additional subscribers will begin experimenting with its streaming services. It'd end up saving the company a decent chunk of change if it was able to slowly phase out DVD rentals in favor of streaming movies and TV shows.
I'm not sure people in the market for a new TV will choose a model from the Sony Bravia line simply because it supports Netflix, but it certainly won't hurt Sony's chances. Internet-enabled TVs and set-top boxes offering streaming content via the Internet has grown in popularity, and you can expect similar announcements from more companies in the future.
