Netflix Launched In India: Things You Need To Know

Do you tend to spend more time on internet than your television sets? If that’s the scene, then you can now watch all subscription-based films and television programs online, as Netflix officially enters in India. You simply need a desktop, laptop or a smart phone to access Netflix.

The American internet streaming media, Netflix reaches India and 129 more Asian, Middle East and European countries.

Indian viewers have indeed waited long for this top global video streaming service to come in. Here are things you got to know about Netflix, before accessing it, reports TOI.

What is Netflix?

Netflix is an online video streaming service that is much popular than HOOQ, YouTube or iTunes for the global audience. It’s a boon to the internet TV network and presently has more than 70 million registered members. It anchors TV shows, movies, original series, documentaries and films. In 2016, Netflix has  plans to release 31 series which will include reruns and new shows, 12 original feature films and a wide range of documentaries and kids series as well.

The first month is free

The first month of Netflix access is free in India. You may call it their marketing strategy but it also leaves scope for you to test the services, before you subscribe it. During sign up, an initial fee of 70 is needed for authentication which you can via credit card using Paypal.

The Plans

So if you like Netflix in the first month, how do you subscribe for it?
Netflix has rolled out three plans in India - Basic (500 per month), Standard (650 per month) and Premium (800 per month).  The Basic plan will allow Standard Definition (SD) resolutions on a single device at a time. In the Standard version, you get HD streaming simultaneously on two devices, so that b you can enjoy your favorite shows while your mother watches her favorite film. Lastly, the Premium package offers ultra HD content, that you can access upto four devices. However, ultra HD is possible only if you own a 4K television.

You need a credit card to sign up

To access Netflix your credit card details are needed from the very first day. At the beginning you will get an ID and password that you can use to sign in from any device. You can also pay through Google Play Store and Apple App Store if you are using Netflix via Android device or iOS device. As you pay the one-time fee, you get an access to the entire library of content in Netflix along with an option to  cancel your subscription at any point of time.

Availability of local content

There is very limited Indian content on Netflix for the time being. The Bollywood film count is 80 while the South Indian film count is still on the lower side. Though the exact count for the total Indian content is yet not out, but the percent is heavily less than U.S. or Canada. The company is working to get more partners on board.

Devices for Netflix

Netflix is accessible on a wide range of devices. The list of mobile devices includes iPad, Android smartphone or tablet and Windows phones.. PC, Smart TV, Apple TV box, Sony PlayStation and Microsoft Xbox consoles also support Netflix. Each subscription allows you to access Netflix on these devices.

Video Quality in Netflix

Netflix offers both SD and HD channels depending on the plan you opt for. If you   choose the Premium package, you also get Ultra HD video but you need 4K television sets to watch this.

Rivals of Netflix

Netflix has a relatively fewer number of rivals in India now. HOOQ is a favorite for movies buffs with Oogle, Hulu, Showtime and HBO are in the list. Star’s Hotstar with their localized content might take over the market.

It’s too new now to comment on the success of Netflix. Indian audience will show their interest in some more time.