Nintendo Set To Launch Video Service
Posted by Mehar Gill on December 28, 2008
Filed Under: Downloads, Format War, Rental, Studios
Throwing their hat into the digital distribution ring, Nintendo is set to launch their own video service some time next year. Taking a different approach to the service then their competitors, the service will only air “cartoons and other entertainment content” specifically made for the service.
Although a set pricing model has not been announced, the original news report claims some offerings will be premium while others free but ad supported.
The saying, “first hit’s free” fits this service perfectly, perhaps wetting the appetites of Wii owners worldwide for similar services such as Hulu? If the service is a success we predict it won’t be long before you can start watching Kung Fu Panda on your Wii.
[Via The Washington Post]
Related posts:
correct me if i am wrong but i thought that the Wii s lacking a hard drive? they sure got some balls if they plan to charge for a streaming service… if anything they should just support netflix streaming along with hulu and other services but for them to think that they can charge someone for streaming average quality content is taking their eyes off the ball.
@Oscar Bustos –
Yes but it still has about 256MB of storage I believe, NOA has said they are working on a storage solution that’s not a HDD. Netflix does the same thing with SD content, the Roku box is a prime example.
Nintendo needs to solve the storgae problem just to sell more WiiWare stuff. Many people are having to delete old stuff before they can download more games. So I think they will solve this storgae problem in some fashion in their already working model of low end base system and then over time develop and sell peripherals for increased functionality.
Once they have a storage solution then streaming or downlaod becomes a natural for the Wii since HD is not really HD when you talk of streaming or downloads anyway. If Nintendo can focus on free stuff like Hulu or an established subscription like Netflix then they can keep selling consoles. I would very likely get a 2nd Wii at that point to put in the bonus room