Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed) - Gizmodo Comments

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

LeeRich24 — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:37:27 EST

Let's hope Apple TV doesn't have the same problems at AT&T's U-Verse and unexpectedly explode. Here's the story from Broadband Reports:

[www.dslreports.com]

LeeRich24

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

wlovis — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 13:23:23 EST

Any idea how much space a 2hr moving in 720p will take up? (i.e. is the larger HD actually worth it?)

wlovis

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

knappoleon — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:25:52 EST

6000 movie titles or 1000 movie titles...yah I totally see why Netflix is screwed (sarcasm) Unlimited movie rentals hello!

knappoleon

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

albokay — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 09:19:08 EST

@doctorSpoc:
Not harping on its lack of storage but more how its more expensive for less storage. Both stream from a pc but if im gonna fork over 350.00 I might as well get the most storage I can from it. Why pay more for less. If apple and Archos were the same price I could see, but apple just charges more for getting less because that little apple logo is on top of it.

albokay

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

DJJS — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 01:45:43 EST

I Hope iTunes comes out with A Reward Program like Blockbuster.. rent a few get a free one , sortha .. Do that and u have me definitely Hooked : )
Just wishfull thinking..

DJJS

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

trailrun33 — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 01:39:22 EST

1280x720 is 720p. Yes, it does HD. DirecTV cant do any better, and only HD Discovery is 1080i

trailrun33

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

HeartBurnKid, creepy morbid freak — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:54:44 EST

If it had DVR capabilities, it'd be a killer.

Unfortunately, I'm not going to shell out money for a box just so I can shell out more money to rent movies. T'aint happening. I already have a DVD player for that, and it was much cheaper.

HeartBurnKid, creepy morbid freak

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

tucker — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:28:40 EST

The only way someone is going to beat Netflix is to offer a similar package. Flat rate, keep X number of movies on your box at a time. Take as long as you want to watch.

Tivo/Amazon is already doing the "24 hours to watch a $4.99" video, and it's lame!

I was really hoping Apple would have better sense than that.

tucker

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:21:33 EST

@albokay: those that keep harping on about storage capacity of AppleTV don't understand how AppleTV works...

I'll say it again... AppleTV has limitless storage capacity!!

you can add as many external hard drives as you desire to your computer and stream content to your AppleTV over 802.11n (this is a faster connection that a wired 100 base ethernet connection and rock solid reliable) i personally have 1.5 TB of storage (3x 500GB USB externals at $100 each) for content that i stream to my AppleTV right now... basically the HDD space on the device is useless.. i would gladly opt for no HDD or a much smaller one if they would drop the price by another $50 or so in return.. all the device really needs is about 10GB or so for buffering.. the only thing i store on my AppleTV is photos... everything else i stream.

if you are talking about storage capacity limitations in relation to AppleTV you don't know what you're talking about because it has not such limitation.

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

someToast — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:47:34 EST

@albokay: "If you own nothing but apple this is news but if you look at Archos TV (which I know isnt the marketing powerhouse apple is)[...]"

Good point. I mean, you can't swing a dead cat without hitting an ad for Apple TV these days.

(As an aside, I'd like to go back in time ten years and tell people that a decade down the road, Apple would be described as a "marketing powerhouse" in a non-sarcastic tone!)

someToast

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:07:13 EST

@techsavy: huh... here's a direct quote...

"iTunes Store purchased video: 320 by 240 pixels, 640 by 480 pixels, 720 by 480 pixels (anamorphic), or high-definition 720p"

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

albokay — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:10:56 EST

If you own nothing but apple this is news but if you look at Archos TV (which I know isnt the marketing powerhouse apple is) prices 250.00 for an 80gb/350.00 for a 250gb compared to 230.00 for a 40gb and 333.00 160gb even if they do the same Archos is the better deal (unless you dont own anything but ipod) But Archos does more. All they need is backing from, lets say, Netflix which could give them a push into the spotlight and Archos tv would do well. When it all comes down to it, HD content takes a lot of space so the more space at the cheapest price, the better.

Either way, im skipping HD-DVD/Blu Ray completely. If apple and Archos can get this stuff working well and make it a fair price, screw the "wars" this is the future of HD.

There is no reason movie studios wont jump on both. Its the same technology. Downloading. It costs them a lot less to offer a HD download than to design/package and ship a HD movie in physical form. And right now they are dying to make money.

albokay

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

housewarmer — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:22:28 EST

@techsavy:
Uh, are you dense? 1280x720 is 720p. See, it even says 720 right in the resolution...how 'bout that?

housewarmer

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

xxdesmus — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:22:08 EST

First of all it's not even real HD, second of all I can get cheap HD on demand movies from my TV provider right now. No thanks, and Apple you fail yet again.

xxdesmus

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

NCMO — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:31:54 EST

I can get service just as good as netflix by checking out DVD's from the library, it's all available online, and they send me an email when it's available. All it costs me is an extra 5 minutes on my way home from work to pick it up. The real advantage of appleTV is that the kids never have to deal with fragile optical media. appleTV is a must for anyone with kids in the house.

NCMO

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ibelli — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:06:39 EST

@CincyShannon: True, It would work better as a monthly service, like Netflix. But I wont buy this. Sony - Hurry up and Make the PS3 do this.

ibelli

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Zandr — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:54:16 EST

@techsavy: How is 1280x720 not 720p?

Zandr

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Zandr — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:53:38 EST

@doctorSpoc: I still have not had an actual accountant offer a coherent explanation of this garbage. If they delivered the product they specified (which they did), I don't see why they can't recognize the revenue. That they're somehow forbidden from offering free feature upgrades in the future is insane.

Zandr

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

mpascal — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:30:42 EST

1000 titles from the major studios doesn't do it for me. That's the same crap I can find at the mom & pop video store around the corner for $1.50 for five days. I have Netflix for its deep library. Old movies. Foreign movies. Stuff that's not easy to find.

Also the 24hr limit is ridiculous. Watching movies at home is not like going out on a date. It's something I do at the end of the day before I fall asleep. In fact there is a 65% chance that I'll fall asleep before the movie is over. And then I'll try again the next day and then the next. Falling asleep while watching a movie it doesn't mean it's bad. Quite the contrary. It means it's good and relaxing. Bad movies annoy me and keep me awake.

mpascal

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

fuse27 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:29:16 EST

@TECHSAVY: How tech savvy are you? Last time I checked, 1280x720 was 720p.

fuse27

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

toddgarvin — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:58:57 EST

One thing that no one is mentioning here is that Apple isn't controlling the rules this time. The movie industry is calling the shots on this one. Without coming to that kind of agreement, Apple wouldn't have any studios on board and therefore no movies for you to rent. Remember NBC? So although I agree that NetFlix isn't going anywhere (i'm a member too), you can't blame Apple for the movie studio's shortsightedness. I'm sure their just getting their feet wet to see how this online/streaming/rental process is going to benefit them.

I do agree that 24hrs is WAY TOO SHORT to watch a movie. For those of us with kids, its a rare night that we can dedicate 2 hours of non-stop time to watch a movie. It would be nice to pickup where you left off on the following evening, but you can't even do that. Must have at least 48 hours. I also agree that if you're paying the "rental fee", then why am I limited to how long I have to watch it. Blockbuster gives you 5 days for an actual disc. Why am I only allowed 24 hours for a file that they can delete at any predetermined time? The movie industry needs to catch up to the technology. hey, at least their trying. By this time next year, we'll probably see a whole new ballgame.

toddgarvin

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

MONSTERGOC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:56:53 EST

Ya, ive already got FIOS with OnDemand. Along with Xbox360 to download movies. Im not convinced I need yet another set top box to do something that 2 other pieces of hardware, I currently own, already do.

MONSTERGOC

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

shadowmilitary — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:56:46 EST

I would like somebody to help make sense of the video output of the Apple TV. They mention "H.264 and protected H.264 (from iTunes Store): Up to 5 Mbps" if you look this spec up on wiki (link below not sure of its accuracy) it gives these two resolutions as max (352x480@30.0 352x576@25.0) for Max 5 Mbps. I don't care who makes the best set-top video player I just want the one that can perform the highest res without restrictions. I currently have a Mvix and am pretty happy with the overall results, I just wish someone would consider making content available that is unlocked (dreaming). If anybody is considering a player the Mvix is great as far as supporting multiple formats (xvid, divx, avi,iso, mpeg, ect. but I have found some limitations on video files from my digital camera (I'm hoping support is only a firmware upgrade away).

[en.wikipedia.org]
[www.mvixusa.com]

shadowmilitary

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ripfire — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:49:40 EST

@doctorSpoc: You're going to compare HDDVD/BluRay over upconverted DVD? Oh come on.

I've watched through an upconverting Denon (w HQV) and it still doesn't compare to DirectTV's HD movies.

ripfire

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

berribrand — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:47:06 EST

Netflix is fine. Most people don't even know what Apple TV is supposed to do anyways. People understand (1) get DVD in mail, (2) watch whenever you feel like it, (3) mail it back whenever you feel like it.

berribrand

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

SmBizMan — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:46:07 EST

Seriously, no DVR?

ALso, i can rent DVD's from REDBOX for $1.00/day... I live walking distance to one, so this box must mainly be for lazy SubUrbanites.

SmBizMan

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Padriac — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:40:56 EST

@yojinbo: Because these movies are legal.

Padriac

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

xrobx — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:31:10 EST

Apple TV Take 2: $229
movie rentals, movie streaming from iTunes, no DVR
Xbox 360 Pro: $349
movie rentals, movie streaming from iTunes, DVR on the way.

better choice?

xrobx

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Seiven — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:29:33 EST

Netflix is still a better value. I can get HDDVD, Blu Ray, and DVD sent directly to my house and I get unlimited streaming all for $13.99 a month.

I spend $229 on the Apple TV and can watch YouTube and Flickr for free but still have to pay 2.99 - 5.99 per movie to stream only.

I like it, don't get me wrong, but it is NOT a Netflix killer by any means.

Seiven

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

incredulous — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:18:29 EST

I honestly don't know if anyone's 'screwed,' and don't so much care. I liked Netflix but gave it up because the rest of my family wouldn't use it and preferred Blockbuster. Maybe blockbuster is screwed. Anyway, for those of us with an @TV it certainly breathes new life into the platform. The announcement that I found most interesting was from Fox Movies: physical DVD's from Fox will come with an iTunes license?! If the other studios follow suit I'll have an instant distribution platform for media without having to build that MythTV box or continue to rip movies into QuickTime so my kids (via laptop) will keep their hands off the physical media. I get access via iPhone too, which is cool but maybe not so useful.

incredulous

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Bob — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:12:34 EST

Analysis of Apple TV 2.0 vs. Netflix Unlimited:

[www.techconsumer.com]

Bob

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

G for GRENADE — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:47:02 EST

I really doubt this will knock down netflix. Digital distribution or not, some people will prefer to have a DVD... and rip it.

G for GRENADE

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Earthslide — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:40:13 EST

@danielsmi: I want the movie now though! advantage apple. You forgot there's a WAIT for some movies on netflix!

Earthslide

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Ron-Mexico — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:24:50 EST

Netflix is screwed? Nothing quite like getting caught up in the afterglow is there? You married the first girl you slept with didn't you?

Ron-Mexico

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

yojinbo — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:22:06 EST

How could they leave out the Divx love?

yojinbo

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

techsavy — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:19:54 EST

@okeo: @Monty: 1280 X 720. Not 720p!! It's on Apple's website.

techsavy

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

phoomp — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:16:18 EST

Movie rental in Canada will be when? 2010?

phoomp

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:15:20 EST

just to put this out there... the biggest agruement i can see against AppleTV rental is that my cable provider already does this.

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Galley — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:11:02 EST

Refurbished Apple TV prices have dropped as well:
40GB: $179.00
160GB: $279.00

I ordered the 160 gigger.

Galley

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

someToast — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:09:39 EST

@ajmac2: "Instead of copying a DVD and having a stack of (illegal) disks, image just ripping the DVD, storing them on a External Drive, and then streaming them to the AppleTV."

It's easy to imagine, but from a legality standpoint, what's the difference?

someToast

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

sgodun — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:09:38 EST

No DVR capabilities, no sale.

sgodun

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Lewis — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:07:47 EST

@csmith75: The opinion on another blog is that the HD rentals are limited to Apple TV.

Buh-mer.

Lewis

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

techsavy — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:05:43 EST

Just looked on Apple's website on tech specs for Apple TV. 1280 X 720. Not even 720p. Hardly HD in comparison to Cable or DirecTV.

techsavy

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

csmith75 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:04:10 EST

@LewisNYC - I also want to know if the HD rentals are limited to the Apple TV.

csmith75

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

superbad — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:02:11 EST

Close, but not there. This will go down with a thud like the last one. The 30 day allowance is pointless if you only have 24 hours to get through it. Why would you rent a movie a month in advance? Make it 1 week (maybe 2), and let people watch it as much as they want within that week.

And most importantly, cut the per-movie price at least 50%. You can justify pricing like this if you're Blockbuster, and supporting the overhead of a huge chain of retail locations, moving around physical discs, etc. But if you're just connecting servers to the web, you should be passing at least some of those savings onto the customer.

I can only assume it's the studios pushing these two deal-breaking restrictions, in a desperate ploy to hold onto their current business model. It will not work.

superbad

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:01:52 EST

@uberfu: it's 30 days to watch... 24hrs to finish watching after starting

i have to admit it should likely be 48hrs... 24hrs is a bit short..

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

stuckie — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:01:23 EST

One word: "REBUFFERING..."

Getting past the "NetFlix vs. Apple" rivalries, the real issue seems to be that even with DSL or Cable modems, most people will not have the "office T1" bandwidth in their homes to stream even true DVD-quality content, much less HD. And what if anyone else in your house wanted to use the internet at the same time as you? Nothing ruins my experience of a movie more than unexpected interruptions, whether from slow feeds or scratched discs.

I'm a NetFlix user myself and appreciate their lower-resolution Instant Viewing options for less "immersive" content like documentaries or stand-up comedy, but I can't see watching a traditional "popcorn movie" on my 50 inch screen in anything below 480i, or "choppily", or paying rental fees plus a hardware purchase to do it.

stuckie

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

itchytooth — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:59:39 EST

I'm a Mac user, but I have a PC connected to my TV. I want to be convinced by this Apple TV, but it just doesn't really stack up to my current Netflix DVD+online deal. Granted, I spent a lot more than $229 building my PC.

itchytooth

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

uberfu — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:59:16 EST

Netflix - isn't entirely screwed_

Seeing as how they have subscription rates for unlimited rentals for a monthly fee - where as Apple is charging a per rental basis and putting a time limit on it_

People are going to get confused when they start getting these "download rentals" from Apple and then goto watch them and find they won't be able to - because it's after the 24-hour clock started ticking_

uberfu

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

pleitch — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:57:35 EST

Netflix has about 6x as many movies at this point. But if anybody has looked through those 6000 movies you quickly realize that at least 1000, if not more, of them are tv episodes and of what remains after that most of them suck.

If even 1/2 of Apple's movie offering is something people would watch they will have more inventory worth watching. Numbers don't always paint the entire picture.

pleitch

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Gmo 4x4 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:56:53 EST

Whoever said netflix is screwed is a dumb ass! If anything this would help netflix, by showing the Country how cheap they really are compared to other BS movie rental companies. Nexflix Rules and will remain King.

Gmo 4x4

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ajmac2 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:55:57 EST

Okay, I'm going to just throw this out there. The AppleTV and Netflix, is really the perfect marriage. At least for all you people that think they are allowed to copy those DVDs (which you aren't).

Instead of copying a DVD and having a stack of (illegal) disks, image just ripping the DVD, storing them on a External Drive, and then streaming them to the AppleTV.

And for the ones that says my Xbox360 can do that, it's not that pretty if you're a MAC user. For a MAC to stream video files, the interface is clunky at best.

ajmac2

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:53:00 EST

@Peter Kirn:

HD DVD and Blue Ray are really over hyped.. if you've ever compared a DVD movie up converted to 1080p on a $50 upconverting DVD player vs. a $500 HD DVD or BlueRay player and an HD disc you'll know right away that HD optical media is WAY overhyped BS.. the difference is minute

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

pleitch — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:52:07 EST

I think comparing AppleTV to Netflix is interesting but doesn't really do much other than let people take easy shots at Apple that probably wouldn't buy the AppleTV regardless. I use Netflix and own an AppleTV. I love both and with the price drop might pick another up.

For those that like Netflix because you can rip your own copy all I have to say is that ever since joining Netflix the thought of having to own anything has passed me by. Anything I want to watch I can get in a day, why waste my own time and stoarage space to rip something that honestly I probably will never watch again.

With HD-DVD dying and Blu-Ray dealing with version 2 not playing nice with early adopters players, I'm not sure if any valid arguments can be made in their favor either. The high def argument has always soured me anyway since so few movies are even available to begin with at this point.

Silly discussion overall.

pleitch

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Razta — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:50:33 EST

I like the idea of the movie downloads. I tried it on my Tivo with Amazon unbox. It worked good, looked good. What I dont know is the 24 hour time limit. I started watching on Saturday and couldn't finish and had to get up on Sunday to finish before it expired. 24 hours is not enough for people with children. When they go to 48 or 72 hours, I will be on board.

Razta

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Husher — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:46:32 EST

@doctorSpoc:
you do know about netflix coming up with a box just like this right?

Husher

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Peter Kirn — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:44:52 EST

Everyone is talking "def" without talking compression. HD -- great. But what are you actually getting? HD-DVD and Blu-Ray deliver a significantly better experience than a highly-compressed MPEG4 as delivered through Apple -- and without all the extras, to boot, and requiring an Apple TV to play on your television (well, okay, or you can tote your laptop over to your HD set).

I'm not saying I wouldn't jump for the convenience myself -- I'm sure I will, especially having used rentals on the PC side. There's no saying you can't use NetFlix for that TV show you're catching up on and the indie film, then impulse-rent the HD new release and watch it in bed on your laptop.

BUT...

I'll be extremely disappointed if we just drop the whole quality discussion altogether. And I hope this is a wake-up call to the industry to get its act together with physical distribution.

Peter Kirn

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Husher — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:44:50 EST

a charge by month vs a charge permovie.
doesnt ondemand do this crap? Im glad not everyone is getting brainwashed into thinken this is great just because it has a half eaten apple.
Netflix isnt screwed, they will stomp this.

Husher

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:42:47 EST

the other problem with NetFlix is that you can't decide to watch a certain movie NOW as the mood strikes you.. unless you want to gather your family around your PC (that sucks)... and the streamed selection is much smaller than the DVD collection. i don't plan enough to know what i'm going to feel like watching in a week or who my guests might be next Friday and what they might want to watch...

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

AJ_Syrinx — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:42:01 EST

@ReductiMat:
HD is not defined by GBs, more by resolution. Movie file sizes will vary by codecs used.

AJ_Syrinx

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

genius74 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:41:51 EST

@okeo:

On that note, prices should be $1 lower for both. Or at least the same and remove the SD versions..

genius74

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

okeo — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:39:55 EST

Monty: it's 720p.

okeo

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

phillyfun — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:38:14 EST

I don't think Netflixs is screwed but I did cancel them last night when I tried to checkout their "all you can eat" video streaming. To my displeasure they do not support Mac's. I'll just take my business to a Mac friendly vendor.

phillyfun

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Lewis — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:37:56 EST

Oops... I thought the announcement of rentals meant HD rental store was available on both AppleTV as well as iTunes on computers. From what I am reading on the iTunes page, it appears as though the rentals will be limited to 480p?

Please tell me I am reading this wrong and HD rentals are not limited to AppleTV? No way I am wasting the Mac Mini that we thought would be "better" than an AppleTV for our living room....

Lewis

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

genius74 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:36:09 EST

Netflix beware? That depends... I'll be damned if I can't get an HD movie from Netflix before it's been out for 2-3 mos. I LOVE the convenience that teh @TV brings to the table. I would love it more when it goes to a subscription model.

Netflix is cool ONLY if you enjoy waiting days for your movies.. That's what's getting OLD with me. The price from Apple is tired as well.

As for the streaming, I use a PC as well, but I'd be double damned if I ever allow IE to be launch on it. Netflix needs to move to a different browser.

genius74

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

lucky_you — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:35:31 EST

What's with the Netflix love-fest here?
You gonna cram your family into that computer office to watch Jurassic Park?
I just canceled my Netflix account the other day.. who wants to wait 3 days for a scratched up disc anyway?

lucky_you

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Brookespeed — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:35:16 EST

@evophoto:

Music and movies are different. I've listened to some music over and over every day. I've only watched Die Hard once or twice (okay, maybe 3 times).

Brookespeed

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Monty — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:31:28 EST

Anyone have news on what Apple's definition of 'HD' is?

720p, 1080i, or 1080p?

Monty

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Brookespeed — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:31:07 EST

This is disappointing. To beat netflix you need a hook that suggests you are getting more than you are paying for. 2-4.99 for each rental is not that hook. Nor is paying several hundred dollars worth of equipment for the "priveledge". I think they made the mistake of thinking Video stores and directTV/Dish had some kind of good idea or something. This and a thin laptop? mega-meh.

Brookespeed

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

evophoto — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:30:37 EST

@fastm3driver: "no subscription model = fail"
yeah... fail... just like iTunes. I think Napster had a subscription model... how'd that work out.

evophoto

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Singlespeed — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:30:05 EST

Seems odd you can only watch the movie once. So I can hold on to it for 30 days but I only get to watch it once? Gimmie a break. May as well use PayPerView.

Singlespeed

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

abes2 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:29:52 EST

oh, almost forgot, the price drop, while not large, actually does price it low enough that I'm seriously considering getting one now .. only I have a LD TV..

abes2

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

abes2 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:28:56 EST

I'll probably use both. I use the Netflix Watch Instantly, but it suffers from the issue that since I use a Mac, I need to use Parallels. Also, even though I have a decently fast DSL connection, it claims I can only use the Basic version which has very poor video quality. Finally, the Watch Instantly option doesn't have the greatest movie/TV selection ever.

The DVD-by-mail solves these issues, but it does require more planning than I'm usually capable of. I still go to the movie rental store, so Apple's rentals offers a nice fill in for me.

I really wish Apple would do IPTV. Most TV shows I'm fine not owning either. It would be really nice to pay a monthly fee to subscribe to N TV shows.

abes2

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:28:24 EST

@smitty1123:

hey, i'm with you, but i want my cake and i want to eat it too.

I want to do both... some movies are only worth watching once (i want to rent those)... some other stuff you want to keep (i want to own those). i can do both with AppleTV. but movies i own are stored on a hard drive and accessible from the push of a button with AppleTV, no searching through 100s of cases, no storaging 100s of cases... that's the point.. my arguement is not about owning or not owing content my arguement is about storage and ease of access to content... content you own or rented content

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

x23 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:21:55 EST

i was hoping for a big update to the Apple TV to convince me to buy one over a 360. this update wasn't really it.

i understand that they are geared towards massively different markets... but for me i think i'll get a 360 now. for my parents? Apple TV sounds perfect.

x23

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

smitty1123 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:21:10 EST

@doctorSpoc: I'll take owning a physical medium over renting/licensing media every time.

smitty1123

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Little Time Bomb — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:18:43 EST

Until i-tunes has a larger selection of movies I can't see this being an alternative to netflix. A selection of 1,000 movies is fairly slim.

Little Time Bomb

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

evophoto — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:14:17 EST

I have an AppleTV. I will be dropping my NetFlix and my Blockbuster memberships now. NetFlix sux because I have to wait and if the movie comes in the mail damaged, as several have, I have to wait longer. Blockbuster sucks because I have to drive over there see if the title is actually in, and then remember to return the dang thing or I get to buy it.

Once people wise up, movie rentals will be a HUGE boon to Apple's business. You dont even really have to have an AppleTV to connect iTunes to your big screen. You just need a VGA or DVI cable and compatible set (most are). But, the AppleTV just streamlines the entire mess without tying up your machine.

evophoto

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:13:20 EST

@badasscat:

huh? i'm talking about MY dvd collection... which consists of 100s of DVDs.. these i now have stored in a closet in DVD booklets.. threw out the cases... and i access them through appleTV from my sofa... how does NetFlix solve this problem for me or anyone else? people are still going to want to own some movies that they will watch over and over again... not me of course but some people ;) rent (through NetFlix) DVD and burn them i'm sure these NetFlix users would appreciate not having a DVD wall of movies and taking huge lots of time to search through that wall of DVD, get off there ass, open the case, take out the movie, open the DVD player, put in the disc and then do the reverse after... optical media just suck... i'm sure most people don't even remeber what the hell they have in their collection because it such a pain in the ass to search through all those damn disc to find something... AppleTV make accessing your collection a piece of cake...every movie you own is a few remote click away... especially now with proper search and Dolby 5.1 surround.. optical media... what the hell for?

NetFlix doesn't solve any of the problems associated with optical media AppleTV does... if you want to live if the bronze age with optical media be my guest.. me i'm like pushing buttons... f!ck optical media!

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

B@tM@n — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:11:04 EST

Damn Macf@gs I mean fanboys come on,,, when will you get some objectivity- this device is poop compared to the Netflix model. But the Giz team receives kcik backs from Apple for overlooking flaws as they always have.

B@tM@n

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

mzs — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:10:26 EST

The whole 24 hours thing is non-starter. By the time our kids are asleep and chores finished and my wife and I sit down to watch a movie, it typically takes us three sittings.

mzs

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

graffiksguru — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:09:46 EST

@someToast: Thats just what I was thinking.
Anyhow, I like it, and a buck more for HD aint bad, because it seems like whenever I want a bluray movie from netflix, it takes a lot longer for me to get it (unless its an older movie).
Would hardly say Netflix is screwed though.

graffiksguru

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

A Pimp Named DaveR — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:09:08 EST

I don't think Netflix is "screwed", because Netflix's business model targets a different customer than Apple's.

Take two people, each of whom rent movies. One (person N) rents two movies a week, the other (Person A) rents a movie a month. Assume it's $18/month for Netflix, and $4 per film for Apple.

If both customers use Netflix, each pays $216. Person N gets 104 movies for that amount, for a cost of $2.07 per movie. Person A gets 12 movies, for a cost of $18.00 per movie.

If both use Apple, each person's annual cost is based on the number of movies they consume. Person N watches 104 movies and pays $416.00. Person A watches 12 and pays $48.00. Each, of course, pays $4 per movie.

Person N is obviously going to save about 50% using Netflix instead of Apple. Person A will pay about five times as much using Netflix vs. Apple. The major difference is that Person A also has to spend $229 on an Apple TV (assuming no computer), which adds to his/her total cost. But you'd make that up in about a year and a half.

Different services, different customer bases.

A Pimp Named DaveR

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

kezratt1 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:05:00 EST

Blockbuster and Netflix have NOTHING to worry about...Itunes sucks and is far to $$$$$...

kezratt1

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

NNTPgrip — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:03:09 EST

@DW: Agreed, the movie theatre chains would go ape shit, but excuse me if I don't have any sympathy whatsoever. They could shut them all down for all I care.

The thing needs Safari too. Either that, or update Frontrow for the mini to essentially BE Apple TV, then I can have both the cake(which is a lie) and eat it too in one box. (Plus hook some tuners up)

NNTPgrip

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

SomeAudioGuy — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 14:01:23 EST

Meh, a cable from my computer to my busted up VCR, and Netflix easily takes Apple.

Watch it now has a ton of tv ...

OMG DEXTER!

I'm off...

SomeAudioGuy

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

fallenturtle — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:59:56 EST

If I could download HD movies for my HTPC, that would rock, but no way am I going to get an Apple TV that will cost more than a OEM blu-ray drive. If I have to buy a piece of hardware, makes more sense to go with the more open-ended option.

fallenturtle

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

voltron80 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:59:22 EST

Still doesn't work on my 4:3 TV. Boo. But at least it finally plays HD... since it only works on "widescreen" TVs.

voltron80

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ripfire — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:58:56 EST

Actually, unlimited 2-at-a-time is good enough for me. Plus I get a dollar off (total $13) for my "good behavior" :)

Being able to copy DVDs from Netflix shouldn't be put into the argument here because you're not paying to get a copy. Besides, copying is getting old; who has time to watch all the copied movies anyway? Just watch it and move on. If you really like the movie, buy it in HD.

ripfire

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

lithivm — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:56:09 EST

DirecTV will also be offering On-demand and movies over their HD DVR's HR-20 HR-21.....

lithivm

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

kelptocratic — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:55:58 EST

I'll be the first to admit I know next to nothing about Apple TV, but does this article imply one would have to spend $229 for the "privilege" of paying 2.99/3.99 for a rental? Really? REALLY? Something tells me this won't hurt Netflix.

Also, the $1.00 HD "tax" is garbage (XBox Marketplace does this crap too).

kelptocratic

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

fostina1 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:55:49 EST

as far as im concerned Redbox is the benchmark. when someone can give me new release rentals for $1/night and a box to watch them on for $30(cheapo walmart dvd player) then you can compete. and if i cant get it at redbox, im sure my library has it for free.

fostina1

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

BrockBrockman — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:55:21 EST

I don't know if Netflix is screwed, but HD-DVD and Blu-Ray sure are. Pointless to drop $200 to $1000 (minimum around $350 for Blu-Ray) for HD content, and $20 a HD/Blu-Ray DVD, when you can stream this with a $229 Apple box and $5 a movie.

While the technically savvy already know how to do this (MythTV, PirateBay, etc.), this solution is the closest thing to a winner I've seen in the battle for Hi-Def programming.

BrockBrockman

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Monty — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:54:56 EST

Fantastic! Apple might be able to double their sales of the Apple TV with these changes.

(Can someone please sign up Steve for a NetFlix subscription so he understands what he is up against? They appear clueless about the whole subscription concept.)

Monty

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

badasscat — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:54:42 EST

@doctorSpoc: You really have a major problem with "storing and searching" through 3 DVD's at a time?

btw Netflix has, right now, 6 times more movies available to stream than Apple will at launch.

badasscat

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

fastm3driver — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:53:31 EST

no subscription = fail

fastm3driver

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doctorSpoc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:53:01 EST

1. there is no upgrade price for AppleTV because when they came out with it they announced they were including future upgrades into the price of the device (for accounting purposes).. they never did this with iPod touch so like with the macBook 802.11n upgrade they need to charge for it to be in line with accounting practices

2. AppleTV does more than NetFlix (service condtions sound good but what about the use case) i will pay the premium.. as i am lazy to be able to watch movies without ever leaving my sofa to watch and search for something to watch or for not having to store and search through 100s of DVD case (which REALLY, REALLY sucks)... AppleTV solves the storage and search problem s associated with optical media NetFlix doesn't... not to mention AppleTV streams your music library, photos, puts YouTube, Flikr, .Mac Photos on your TV, podcasts etc... they are not the same service

doctorSpoc

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

BloggyMcBlogBlog — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:52:07 EST

I can see the advantage of direct download movies. However, does iTunes have the selection that Netflix does?

BloggyMcBlogBlog

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

badasscat — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:50:12 EST

Netflix: 3 movies out at a time, keep as long as you want, *plus* all the streaming you can eat, 66,000 DVD's, 500+ Blu-Ray discs and HD-DVD's (in full 1080p HD), $17.99 flat per month

Apple: Totally a-la carte, $3-$5 per movie, keep it 30 days, only 24 hours to watch it before it borks itself, 720p max on the HD titles, 1,000 total titles

Yeah, Netflix looks totally screwed to me...

Apple isn't even close.

badasscat

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

vtorch — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:49:32 EST

Whoever said Netflix is screw'd is a moron.

vtorch

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

SourceDesktop — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:45:49 EST

How am I supposed to burn and return with Apple TV?... I think i'll hold my Netflix.

SourceDesktop

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ripfire — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:45:03 EST

Dammit Netflix! You need to take action and get on that HD shit.

But seriously, Netflix's subscription model is way better than per movie fee. Apple's model is nowhere near Netflix's goodness.

ripfire

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

tmed — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:44:31 EST

Goodness, the AppleTV is nearly catching up to TiVo, except for that whole DVR thing.

Of course, waiting six weeks to buy that new release used for $5 is still a pretty good option.

tmed

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Xenocide — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:44:20 EST

At least it's not totally useless now.

Xenocide

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Galley — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:43:14 EST

What happened to the firmware update to the Fall 2007 iPods so they can play back this new HD content? Perhaps it's still coming.

Galley

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

sammy baby — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:42:31 EST

What does this do that my 360 doesn't already?

I think the real question is what it doesn't do that 360s are prone to doing: namely, sounding like a jet engine and showing 3 red lights.

(I keed, I keed. Because I love! And because I am bitter, bitter man.)

sammy baby

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Synthaxx — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:41:37 EST

@UnnDunn:
I'm guessing it doesn't play xvid/divx ...

Too bad.

Synthaxx

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Dural — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:41:06 EST

Did they upgrade the hardware to be able to play 1080p content? What codecs can it play and at what bitrates?

Dural

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

hellomms — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:39:34 EST

Netflix Screwed?

Wrong!

I am still going to use it and so will the others...this is expensive.

hellomms

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

djkevo — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:38:04 EST

Comparing the two is comparing Apples and Oranges. Nobody went to the Apple Store to buy an Apple TV to watch movies online. Apple TV allows you to sync your iTunes library so you can view pictures, movies and play music from your TV, which is the primary reason for owning it. Netflix on the other hand is a movie rental company. One does not need necessarily 'screw' the other. From pricepoint alone Netflix is way ahead as a movie rental source not to mention they do not give you 24 hours to watch a movie. For Apple TV to even be a threat to Netflix, the following has to happen : All Netflix customers must get a reliable and steady broadband internet connection ; Apple must have an unlimited viewing plan with no restrictions on when you can watch the movie; To top it all off they must have as many titles as Netflix does. Let's do a little more research before jumping to conlusions. Please.

djkevo

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

UnnDunn — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:36:43 EST

What does this do that my 360 doesn't already?

UnnDunn

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

kerplunk1 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:32:24 EST

@CruJones:
Hmm...you must be doing something right because Blu-ray new releases from Netflix almost always have a 4 month wait time for me - even after having been in my Saved queue forever and immediately moved to the top of my Rental queue the first day possible. What's your secret? You work for Netflix?

kerplunk1

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

someToast — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:30:01 EST

@Blue_Mountain: "I rent movie I can copy for my collection so that I can watch them again as I wish, when I wish.

Foolish people pay for movie they can't keep in their library."

Foolish people announce their thievery on public forum.

someToast

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

MPerlo9 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:28:45 EST

How is this guy still on staff?

MPerlo9

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

weatherman — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:25:52 EST

How do we figure netflix is screwed? Honestly the price of the Apple hardware is a full year's worth of Netflix service; unlimited movies by mail or streaming for a year for $230, or just the ability to download movies for additional fees? I choose Netflix.

weatherman

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

dagamer34 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:24:38 EST

How about an update to Front Row while you're at it? Some of us use mac Mini's as our media center.

dagamer34

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Blue_Mountain — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:23:07 EST

Alrighty...a total waste of money. Yeah, because it is Apple and they have all the Jesus devices.

I rent movie I can copy for my collection so that I can watch them again as I wish, when I wish.

Foolish people pay for movie they can't keep in their library.

Enough of the Jesus or God money hungry companies. Give me a break...Christ!

Apple this...Apple that, huh? Give your heart to Steve and you wallet to his stock holders...not mine.

Blue_Mountain

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

lucky_you — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:21:46 EST

@brundlefly76:

Last time I checked, Netflix asks for money, so nothing's "free."
Oh, and have fun watching that movie in the office.

Apple FTW

lucky_you

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

h0mi — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:19:13 EST

Looks like they've finally given people a reason to get an apple tv. I won't be one of them... by the time summer rolls around I'll have 4 HD devices connected to my tv with no more inputs available.

h0mi

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ItsDon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:18:56 EST

Funny how all the talk is of Apple vs. Netflix and not a PEEP about Blockbuster ;) I understand though, they completely suck and need to be run out of town.

ItsDon

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

brundlefly76 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:14:05 EST

NetFlix Screwed?
OMG you guys are so hyperbolic.

Lets see - NetFlix streaming movies FOR FREE vs Apple renting them for $4. Uh, dont see NetFlix getting screwed there.

Buying unpopular $229 set top box that does the same thing as TiVo (via Amazon unboxed) and XBox (Video Marketplace) - uh, no thank you.

Now, if the ALL the new releases are available on the DVD release date, then maybe they will have something interesting.

brundlefly76

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Kaiser-Machead's Chips Ahoy! — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:13:16 EST

Being unable to rip and copy a rental is not a valid point of criticism. It is a rental, you didn't buy it to own, and just because it doesn't support your workaround to paying full price for a movie, it's not suddenly crap or overpriced.

Kaiser-Machead's Chips Ahoy!

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ItsMrJP — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:12:39 EST

WARNING: you will not be able to pause, rewind, or skip chapters. In a month if you want those features hand over 20 bucks, unless you bought the more expensive elite unit.

ItsMrJP

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

DW — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:12:29 EST

@NNTPgrip:
If the studios allowed movies to be in the home within 30 days of theatrical releases, the theatre chains would have a fit! Remember when Canadian theaters threatened to bypass major blockbusters on the first week of release because the studios were pushing DVD release dates up? I think that was 2 years ago - not too far back.

As far as Netflix goes, I think they have a MUCH better deal and with over 90,000 titles, they also have a much larger collection. On the other hand, Comcast promises to have HD downloads directly to set-top boxes in under 4 minutes by the end of the year. That's the competition to both Apple TV and Netflix. (Comcast = Biggest cable provider in the US; and you only have to own one box)

;)

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Type-E — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:11:47 EST

can I watch my videos on my shared drive from the apple tv?

Type-E

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

UncleGDogg — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:10:40 EST

Sorry, I'm not about to ditch Netflix for that overpriced crap...

UncleGDogg

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Franssu — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:08:37 EST

So... when there's money to do with, it, we get a free software upgrade (apple tv) but when it's only added functionality, we get to pay $20 for the upgrade (iPod touch). Nice.

Franssu

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

luxera — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:07:43 EST

Pretty neat. Although I don't think I could buy a new box just to do what my 360 can already do. Once storage devices catch up and I can have direct PURCHASES let me know.

luxera

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

chebyrashka — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:06:21 EST

Ha yeah right Netflix screwed over this? Not even close. I don't think people are that ready for downloading movies quite yet. Plus the price isn't that great.

chebyrashka

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

theorie — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:04:36 EST

i still prefer netfix:

i can rip DVD's myself :D haha

theorie

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

equicade — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:04:23 EST

Sorry, NetFlix looks better than ever now:

1. I get HD movies in the mail as many as I want, 3 or more at a time for a flat fee per month.
2. I can keep them as long as I want and watch them as many times as I want.
3. I can login to NetFlix.com and watch them there as many as I want, when I want. No new fees.
4. When the NetFlix box comes out, soon, I can get fat on the couch watching as many movies as I want, again, for the same flat fee.

If I use this service, I would have to sell my car and house to watch the same amount of movies I watch.......for 18 bucks a month. Sorry Apple, Netflix p0wned you.

equicade

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

NNTPgrip — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:03:45 EST

It should be 30 days from the time of theatrical release, not DVD release, and you should have 48 hours to watch it after starting it.

HD should cost the same as DVD quality, and that still should be a dollar cheaper.

Tuner support or IPTV should also have been there.

NNTPgrip

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

hhaller — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:02:59 EST

Looks good to me. Netflix is $16.99 for me for 3 SD DVD's at a time, which I'm notoriously slow to return. If I can just download SD or HD ala carte that would be pretty convenient. Plus the ability to easily watch or listen to content on my desktop without wires is pretty damn compelling. Gathering people around the tv to watch a Flickr slideshow sounds good to. Before someone says I could do all of this with other tech I know I could, but I doubt it will be as easy and painless to set up.

I think they finally delivered what I wanted Apple TV to be.

hhaller

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

doculik — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:02:10 EST

Neuf Telecom and all the other triple play companies in France have been offering this service for quite some time now (1+ years), the ability to "rent" video-on-demand without the need of a pc/mac. The decoder is free and the movies cost about the same. They also have HD. So, I guess, there's nothing mind-blowing new under the sun, after all...

doculik

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

jonm11 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:00:47 EST

I'll be unhappy if the ATV I got last month is now obsolete :(

jonm11

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

danielsmi — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:00:43 EST

@danielsmi: sorry it should say with apple you CAN"T burn a copy for yourself to keep.

danielsmi

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

J0hnP — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:00:40 EST

As a hearing-impaired movie enthusiast, does anyone know whether these AppleTV movies would be captioned? That's been my biggest beef with Amazon's Unbox or Netflix's Instant Watch.

J0hnP

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ReductiMat — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:00:22 EST

So is this 'real' HD? In other words, 45gb HD?

ReductiMat

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

CruJones — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:59:57 EST

Netflix is not screwed. It's still a better deal. I wouldn't even consider paying $5 per HD rental when I can get as many as I want, as fast as I can watch them through Netflix.

CruJones

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

Peeje — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:59:34 EST

Is this "new version" a hardware upgrade or a software upgrade?

Peeje

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

danielsmi — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:59:12 EST

Riiightt!! Netflix is screwed how? Let's see you can keep the movie only for 30 days while with netflix you can keep it for as long as you have the service. Advantage netflix. With apple once you start watching the movie you have 24hrs to watch it and after 24hrs it's gone. With Netflix you can watch it as many times as you fucking want to. Advantage Netflix. With apple you can burn a copy for yourself to keep. With Netflix you stick in the DVD and burn it and keep it forever. Advantage fucking netflix!! So again tell me how neflix is screwed? I think the RDF has you!

danielsmi

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

jiznerdo — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:58:53 EST

Netflix screwed? I don't think so.

Let's see:

AppleTV: $3.99 per movie for standard def. If I watch one a week, that's about $18 a month (4.5 weeks per month * $4).

$18 a month with Netflix gets me about 3 movies a week (I know, because I have Netflix, and that's about what I get based on their turnaround time).

Oh, and when Netflix's streaming box comes out, I'll keep paying that $18 a month and be able to watch even more movies without a per-movie rental fee.

AppleTV screwed, again.

jiznerdo

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

xESCOx — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:58:30 EST

Unless they have a rental plan ala Netflix then I dont see myself changing as $5 / movie can add up quickly.

xESCOx

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

AtheistP3ace — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:57:40 EST

But is it new hardware or a software upgrade?

AtheistP3ace

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

CincyShannon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:57:40 EST

Netflix is still a lot cheaper. I definitely wouldn't say there screwed.

1. I dont plan on dropping 300 on an AppleTV any time soon.
2. I don't plan on spending 5 bucks for every HD movie I want to watch.

CincyShannon

Apple TV Take 2: $229, No Computer Required, Direct Rentals (Netflix Is Screwed)

ferrdidly — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:56:09 EST

This is a definite step in the right direction for Apple TV. It was far too limited before.

ferrdidly