Engadget

Digiboo kiosk video service launches, opts for USB drives instead of DVDs

Edgar Alvarez — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:42:00 EST

Judging by its quirky name, you'd think Digiboo is anything but an à la carte video service hoping to fight it out with the famed Redbox, or even ~~Qwikster~~ Netflix. The outfit's kiosks allow you to grab a two-day rental from a 700-plus film menu for $3.99, while $14.99 makes any title yours to own. Here's the interesting part -- rather than getting a DVD for your cash, though, you'll insert a flash drive to download your movie in as little as "30 seconds." Digiboo's setting up shop at airports in Portland, Seattle and Minneapolis-St. Paul to start, but mum's the word on its plans for expansion. Taking a trip over to P-Town anytime soon? Be sure to let us know your results if you happen to try it out.

Digiboo kiosk video service launches, opts for USB drives instead of DVDs originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox notches its second billion rentals, offers freebies Thursday to celebrate

Richard Lawler — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:22:00 EST

It took six years for Redbox to cross the one billion discs rented mark, but clearly the pace is picking up as it's taken only 18 months to duplicate the feat. Sure, two billion is no 25 billion, but at least the red kiosk company isn't only going to share the love with the milestone maker who just wanted to check out Ryan Gosling in Drive. Thursday, all customers can pick up a free DVD rental (Blu-ray and videogame rentals will just be discounted by the price of a DVD) courtesy of a promo code that can be found on the company's Facebook page, hit the giveaway link below to snag it.

Continue reading Redbox notches its second billion rentals, offers freebies Thursday to celebrate

Redbox notches its second billion rentals, offers freebies Thursday to celebrate originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix is in talks to partner with cable providers for bundles, could mean higher quality streaming

Richard Lawler — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 22:02:00 EST

After CEO Reed Hastings recently hinted at the possibility of Netflix's Watch Instantly service coming bundled with cable services, Reuters is reporting the company has met with "some of the largest US cable companies" to discuss partnerships. The report goes on to mention it could stream through cable set-top boxes and appear as another line item on customer's bills, however for that, Netflix would have to rework content licensing agreements that bar its service from cable boxes, which has kept it off of TiVo Premieres offered by companies like Suddenlink and RCN. We've also spoken to the infamous people with knowledge of the discussions and are hearing that while deals are being discussed, what's initiated the talks is the increasing bandwidth load that Watch Instantly is placing on networks -- see the Comcast vs. Level 3 dustup from 2010.

What the deals being discussed could bring is a setup where your cable company offers bundled services (TV, internet, etc.) that include premium access to Netflix -- higher quality audio and video streams that don't count against bandwidth caps, and maybe even a discount from the standard rate. Cable companies could obtain revenue from Netflix under the deal, and also keep customers around thanks to the advantages of the bundled offerings, while Netflix could have more reliable distribution for its video, and a leg up on competition from Amazon and Redbox / Verizon FiOS. We'll wait and see what happens, but in an interesting twist, Netflix could quickly join sports as a tool for providers to keep customers from cutting the cord, instead of a reason for it.

Netflix is in talks to partner with cable providers for bundles, could mean higher quality streaming originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 22:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox deal with Universal keeps DVDs, Blu-rays on 28-day delay through 2014

Richard Lawler — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:42:00 EST

So far, Redbox has maintained that it's only willing to delay rentals of new releases a maximum of one month, but while Warner pushes for a longer window the rental kiosk chain has reached an agreement with Universal Studios Home Entertainment. The new deal keeps the delay window at 28 days, and promises to keep the discs flowing through August 2014. Despite Redbox's threat to start offering Warner movies day and date due to their dispute, so far it's still taken a couple of weeks for new releases like Harold & Kumar and J Edgar to make their way into kiosks. So far there's no word of other studios backing Warner's push for a 56-day delay between the date movies go on sale at retail and the earliest budget renters like Redbox and Netflix will offer them, which is a good sign. Not mentioned in the press release? Whether or not this deal could affect the availability of content for Redbox's internet streaming service that's on the way with Verizon.

Continue reading Redbox deal with Universal keeps DVDs, Blu-rays on 28-day delay through 2014

Redbox deal with Universal keeps DVDs, Blu-rays on 28-day delay through 2014 originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Disney considering 28-day rental window, because 'On Stranger Tides' was that good

Daniel Cooper — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:46:00 EST

That sound you can hear is the studios dashing around as they look for a new scapegoat. Disney's got Redbox and Netflix in its sights as it declares plans to impose a 28-day window before it'll make its titles available for rental. Despite conceding that the studio hadn't seen any impact on overall DVD sales, CEO Bob Iger pointed to a 16 percent drop in quarterly revenue compared to 2010 as the motivation. It's also collecting splinters in its backside as it watches to see how well digital locker service UltraViolet fares with consumers before committing to join the program. Of course, given the legitimacy of First Sale Doctrine, it's possible Redbox will do as its done with Warner titles and just buy 'em at retail -- as long as it can cover its costs as it does so.

Disney considering 28-day rental window, because 'On Stranger Tides' was that good originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox snatches up NCR's entertainment division, swallows Blockbuster Express business

Terrence O'Brien — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:58:00 EST

If you thought Coinstar was through making industry rattling announcements today, you were wrong. After taking the wraps off its joint venture with Verizon, now the company has announced it'll be taking over NCR's entertainment division for $100 million. That includes DVD kiosks, retailer contracts and an inventory of discs for stocking the machines. That's big news not only because it expands Redbox's already sizable self-serve rental empire, but because it's doing so at the expense of the floundering Blockbuster, since NCR owns the blue and yellow rental kiosks. Presumably existing Blockbuster Express installations will become Redboxes, though, how quickly that might happen is unclear. For a few more details about the deal check out the PR after the break.

Update: We've attached a letter from Blockbuster explaining the switchover after the break.

Continue reading Redbox snatches up NCR's entertainment division, swallows Blockbuster Express business

Redbox snatches up NCR's entertainment division, swallows Blockbuster Express business originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Verizon and Redbox team up to launch streaming and physical media service later this year

Tim Stevens — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:10:00 EST

It once was a rumor but now it's real: Verizon and Redbox are joining forces on what is said to be the "best of both worlds" -- a service that will offer both physical media and streaming content for subscribers. Details are slim at this point but the supposed "Project Zoetrope" will offer DVD and Blu-ray media in addition to on-demand streaming plus downloadable content. The Netflix-like service will be launching in the second half of this year and, while "multi-platform" support for "devices" is mentioned, it's not stated whether any of those will be non-Verizon. Though, Big Reds' claims that it will "erase all technological boundaries" does make us slightly optimistic. Still, we'll have to wait a few more months to know for sure.

[Thanks, Kevin]

Continue reading Verizon and Redbox team up to launch streaming and physical media service later this year

Verizon and Redbox team up to launch streaming and physical media service later this year originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox refuses to push Warner movie delay to 56 days, will rent flicks as they go on sale

Richard Lawler — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:44:00 EST

Two years after bending to Warner's demands and delaying its kiosk rentals 28 days in exchange for lower acquisition costs and a steady supply of Blu-ray discs, Redbox announced the agreement has expired. This comes as a result of Warner's desire to extend the delay between the time movies are available for purchase to the time they can be rented in kiosks or by subscription to 56 days, and instead Redbox will go back to buying the studio's movies at retail -- coincidentally, it has renewed its lease agreement with Walmart for 3,700 retail locations for three more years. While that means more expense and possibly unsure supply for Redbox -- we'll wait and see if retailer interference is an issue again -- the good news for consumers is that for the time being, they'll have the choice of renting as soon as movies go on sale. The first flick affected by the new reality is A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas, so until Warner backs off, or Redbox blinks once its streaming service comes into play, then go forth and enjoy those $1.10 rentals freely.

[Thanks, Stephen]

Continue reading Redbox refuses to push Warner movie delay to 56 days, will rent flicks as they go on sale

Redbox refuses to push Warner movie delay to 56 days, will rent flicks as they go on sale originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix: Warner Bros. movies now available after 56 day delay

Daniel Cooper — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:36:00 EST

Warner Bros. must have thought that CES was a good week to bury bad news, but unfortunately most people pay attention when you pull a move like this. Netflix has confirmed the rumor that if you wanna rent movies from the aforementioned studio, you'll have to wait 56 days, twice as long as the previous window. In the press-release (available after the break), the studio states it's doubling the window to maximize potential of its new releases. It also heavily implies that the studio was threatening to withdraw access to its library unless the rental service complied. We're keeping our ear to the ground to hear if similar announcements are forthcoming from Redbox and Blockbuster. Nothing like a little heavy-handed action to convince you that ownership truly is better than renting when it comes to DVD blockbusters, eh?

Update: Redbox got back to us with an official statement:

The current agreement Coinstar has with Warner Bros. is to receive movie titles 28-days after their release. No revised agreements are in place.

Continue reading Netflix: Warner Bros. movies now available after 56 day delay

Netflix: Warner Bros. movies now available after 56 day delay originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Warner Bros. pushing movie delays from 28 to 56 days for Netflix, Redbox and Blockbuster?

Richard Lawler — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:40:00 EST

While HBO is reportedly not supplying DVDs directly to its rival Netflix, Warner Bros. is apparently flexing its muscle by working out agreements that will keep new release movies away from Blockbuster, Netflix and Redbox renters. This news comes from anonymous sources dropping a dime in the ear of AllThingsD's Peter Kafka, who reports the arrangements will be announced at CES, not long after Warner extended the window for Blockbuster to match the other two. This news comes at the same time Time Warner's CFO John Martin remarked upon "alternate" distribution channels as a way for it to move through a more challenging home video market. That means the company is focusing on things like day-and-date VOD releases with disc which it's seeking to protect from competition by cut-rate rental services like these three, likely by leveraging their desire for content to feed streaming movie offerings. According to Home Media Magazine, he believes the industry has "got to embrace these higher margin opportunities" -- which is probably going to leave just the older flicks in its 7,000 movie deep library for the rest of us trying to watch via subscription or $1~ rentals.

Update: Bloomberg reports Redbox has denied reaching any revised agreement, and that its deal with Warner still calls for a 28-day delay only. We'll likely find out what the deal is in a few days, so stay tuned.

Warner Bros. pushing movie delays from 28 to 56 days for Netflix, Redbox and Blockbuster? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Verizon rumored to be working with Redbox on its internet video streaming service

Richard Lawler — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:48:00 EST

If you're still trying to make the pieces of the recent "Verizon is launching an over the top video service" rumor fit, perhaps the missing element is information detailed by TechCrunch suggesting Big Red is the unnamed partner aligned with Redbox's upcoming online video efforts. According to the rumor, the two would connect like Voltron, or, like Dish Network and Blockbuster -- without the whole falling into ruin, bankruptcy and eventual purchase part of the story -- for a subscription service offering movies for streaming and download to a variety of devices. Allegedly dubbed Project Zoetrope, it would launch this spring however unlike Netflix or Amazon Prime Instant Video's all-you-can-eat approach, its hook is described as a credit based system allowing a certain number of movies to be streamed or downloaded every month. It's all very sketchy at the moment, but Redbox has gone dark about its streaming plans and it's just about time we heard something there, so we'll add one more thing to keep our eyes and ears open for at CES in January.

Verizon rumored to be working with Redbox on its internet video streaming service originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox's $1 per night DVD rentals jump to $1.20 October 31st, Blu-ray and games stay the same

Richard Lawler — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:21:00 EST

While its movie rental rivals Netflix and Blockbuster have struggled for varying reasons recently, it seemed like Redbox could be just the ticket for thrifty renters. That may be tougher now that it has announced Monday we'll see a slight increase in pricing for DVD rentals, from $1 to $1.20, citing increased debit card fees. So far, nightly pricing for Blu-ray discs ($1.50) and videogames ($2) is staying the same, but with studios already pushing for longer rental delays, there's fewer safe ports or those pursuing cheap, current movies. On the conference call, executives floated the idea of using the first sale doctrine to buy and rent retail discs if necessary. Overall, as seen above Redbox's share of the disc rental market rose last quarter, while there's still no word on plans to jump into online streaming.

Check below for parent company Coinstar's full Q3 earnings report plus a FAQ that helpfully points out this is Redbox's first increase in eight years and that discs reserved online will still be just $1 for the first night through November. The actual email customers are receiving is included after the break.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Redbox's $1 per night DVD rentals jump to $1.20 October 31st, Blu-ray and games stay the same

Redbox's $1 per night DVD rentals jump to $1.20 October 31st, Blu-ray and games stay the same originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Warner pushes 28-day new release delay on Blockbuster, matches Redbox and Netflix

Richard Lawler — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:17:00 EST

We suppose it's good news / bad news for Blockbuster. The good news is that after going through bankruptcy and being sold, Warner Bros. has decided it's healthy enough to take on the competition on even ground. The bad news, is that Warner has decided to give Blockbuster the same month long delay the studio loves so much before new movies can be rented out as its competitors, Redbox and Netflix. While Blockbuster has had delays at its kiosks already, being first to get new flicks in stores has been a part of its marketing for a while. The LA Times reports Blockbuster so far is turning to simply buying the copies it needs at retail to rent them out immediately, but we'll see how long that lasts. If you enjoy your discs via kiosk or mail don't think you're out of the woods either, as the paper mentions Warner wants to delay new flicks to those outlets even longer when their deals are renegotiated.

Warner pushes 28-day new release delay on Blockbuster, matches Redbox and Netflix originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 23:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox starts renting out video games nationwide, charges $2 for your Xbox 360, PS3 or Wii pleasure

Vlad Savov — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 05:21:00 EST

Exactly as promised, Redbox is today inaugurating a new branch to its media-renting venture with the introduction of video game rentals at $2 a day. There's a pretty rich and fresh selection on offer, including the likes of Duke Nukem Forever, Dirt 3, and Brink, and you can reserve your copy online before moseying down to your nearest Redbox kiosk to execute the transaction. About 5,000 of those crimson encasements have already been partaking in the testing of this service, but now Redbox is flipping the switch on the other 21,000 across the US and making things officially official.

Redbox starts renting out video games nationwide, charges $2 for your Xbox 360, PS3 or Wii pleasure originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 05:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox will offer $2 per day videogame rentals nationwide in June

Richard Lawler — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:58:00 EST

Kiosk movie rental giant Redbox is finally officially expanding into the games category, announcing today it will offer videogames nationwide starting June 17th. The $2/day game rentals will include selections for PS3, Xbox 360 and Wii (two of which even have a working online service right now). This may be old hat to some since it's been in testing at about 5,000 locations since around the same time it kicked off nationwide Blu-ray rentals, but for 21,000+ other locations there's now a whole new reason to stand behind someone that wants to check each and every title available when all you want to do is return a disc. Seriously, express return slots Redbox -- get on it.

Continue reading Redbox will offer $2 per day videogame rentals nationwide in June

Redbox will offer $2 per day videogame rentals nationwide in June originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Poll: What's the most important feature for a Netflix competitor?

Richard Lawler — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST

The rumor mill indicates we can expect serious competition for Netflix's Watch Instantly service sometime soon, so we're wondering what features anyone else diving into the game may want to focus on in order to get your attention. Given the service's wide reach we figure you're probably a subscriber or at least gave it a shot whether by word of mouth or through one of those annoying pop under ads (why do they still run those?) and have seen some room for improvement. We've put a few of our ideas as options in the poll below, let us know what you'd like to see most in the comments below.

View Poll

Poll: What's the most important feature for a Netflix competitor? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox adds Netflix-style movie ratings, star system

Richard Lawler — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 13:13:00 EST

Redbox's website has gone through several facelifts in the last few months, but the most recent (3/23) change is the addition of ratings and review to movies. As seen in the screen above, the placement, style and star ratings are very reminiscent of Netflix's system and may indicate the reasoning behind the addition. Redbox is preparing to enter the subscription movie streaming arena soon, and just as the Netflix Prize focused on finding out what particular users like so it can find relevant selections within its limited catalog, the movie kiosk company will likely travel a similar path. We don't know when the streaming component will launch, but whenever Redbox and its unnamed partner flip the switch, you'll probably want to have a few ratings in the chamber so it knows what you like.

Redbox adds Netflix-style movie ratings, star system originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Apr 2011 13:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spot movie rental kiosks aim to beat Redbox on price and convenience

Richard Lawler — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:18:00 EST

Since Netflix is experiencing new competition to its popular movie distribution model it only fits that Redbox should too and the most interesting entrant we've seen in the movie kiosk business is "Spot. The Difference". It recently test launched 25 boxes in Riverside County California and currently beat Redbox's pricing by renting DVDs and Blu-ray discs for $1 / day each, or 89 cents if rented in pairs. Of course, just winning on price isn't enough to keep us from sticking with our coupon codes and smartphone apps, but the company has fixed our main beef with the red boxes by designing a kiosk with two slots, one for rental, and another for return. That way you're not waiting behind the people of Walmart as they skim through every disc in the box when all you want to do is return Glee, Season 2, Volume 1 and be on your way. It also claims to fit more movies in a smaller space, but really, you had us at express disc return slot.

Continue reading Spot movie rental kiosks aim to beat Redbox on price and convenience

Spot movie rental kiosks aim to beat Redbox on price and convenience originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 16:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox is planning a Netflix-like subscription streaming movie service, could partner with Amazon or Walmart

Richard Lawler — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 05:08:00 EST

According to Company Town, Redbox prez Mitch Lowe informed analysts yesterday that its upcoming online movie service would be subscription-based like Netflix and Hulu Plus instead of charging per-movie like iTunes, Zune or Amazon VOD (we can guess why.) Users would pay the monthly fee to stream to various devices (perhaps to the new iPhone and Android apps) and access discs at the kiosks. Lowe mentioned Redbox would have a partner in the service and while previous rumors pointed to CinemaNow, the Seattle Times suggests Walmart / Vudu and Amazon -- rumored to be launching a subscription service of its own this month -- as possibilities. Meanwhile, in its existing disc based business, word is Disney has decided to raise the amount it charges Netflix and Redbox for each DVD to the full wholesale price, although they'll still be available the same day the DVDs go on sale.

Redbox is planning a Netflix-like subscription streaming movie service, could partner with Amazon or Walmart originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 05:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox now has an app for Android, updated app for iPhone

Richard Lawler — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:28:00 EST

Redbox quietly updated its official iPhone app to version 2.0.1 a few weeks ago and today announced a version for Android devices. It appears that the functionality and look is the same across both apps and should be familiar to any Redbox user, find nearby boxes, browse their contents and reserve discs on the go. There's also the ability to map a route to the nearest box is needed, and CNET notes the websites been upgraded to allow users to reserve up to 5 movies at once if necessary Check the gallery for screens from both or just head to iTunes or the Android Market to grab the one that fits you best.

Gallery: Redbox apps for Android, iPhone

Continue reading Redbox now has an app for Android, updated app for iPhone

Redbox now has an app for Android, updated app for iPhone originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox passed 30,000 kiosks in Q4 2010, but still missed financial expectations

Ben Bowers — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:48:00 EST

Redbox may be a red-logoed stepchild compared to industry darling Netflix, but according to its parent company Coinstar's Q4 earnings call, it still managed to pass the 30,000 kiosk milestone, increase market share to 30 percent and grow DVD revenue by 38 percent to $319.6 million. Combined with blowing by one billion rentals back in September and avoiding a lawsuit with Fox, the news would have culminated in champagne and karaoke for Coinstar shareholders... except for one thing: new releases underperformed during the last quarter along with Blu-ray rentals. Coinstar CEO Paul Davis was quick to bolster investor concerns on the call, however, stating company management had taken "definitive steps to correct the issues" and was ready to "leverage the First-sale doctrine" -- which refers to a Supreme Court ruling limiting the control of copyright holders over the re-selling of its property -- should studios get sassy in future distribution negotiations. More updates on the company's streaming plans didn't materialize, though, so you'll have to chuck those dreams of instant rental gratification for a buck back in the deep freeze at least in the near term. Otherwise, hit up the source links below to ogle data tables to your heart's content.

Redbox passed 30,000 kiosks in Q4 2010, but still missed financial expectations originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Blockbuster partially reaches back to the 90s, announces 3-day in store rentals with tiered pricing

Ben Bowers — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 20:57:00 EST

Right on the heels of announcing that its on demand service was available on over 100 devices, Blockbuster has officially reduced in-store rentals periods from five to three days and established new pricing tiers. "Just arrived" Blu-rays and DVDs now cost $4.99, making them competitive with Redbox on a cost per day basis, especially when you consider the red vending machines must wait for up to 28 days later in some cases to get newer titles. Recent releases in circulation longer than six weeks cost $2.99 along with frequently rented "Top Picks," while older, and less popular titles -- think Weekend at Bernies -- have bottomed out to $0.99. According to company rep Patty Sullivan, these changes should help Blockbuster "continue to be a competitive force in the media business" and "simplify the rental experience." That sounds a lot like the same stance it took with the now dead no late fee scheme -- but who's keeping track? It also still seems expensive for frequent movie watchers compared to Netflix's basic $10 a month plan, which includes one rotating mailed disc along with unlimited streaming. So call us crazy, but somehow we don't see this move solving the company's bankruptcy woes anytime soon.

Blockbuster partially reaches back to the 90s, announces 3-day in store rentals with tiered pricing originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flix on Stix kiosks coming soon: it's like Redbox, but with USB thumb drives

Darren Murph — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 14:58:00 EST

The concept's far from new -- Warner and Paramount signed up way back in the heyday known as "2009" to offer movies on SD cards, and select Blockbuster rental kiosks have been popping 'em out ever since. But Flix on Stix is an expected twist on the models that are already out there, and it's one that will no doubt face some difficulty in reaching the same level of acceptance as Redbox. Put simply (or as simply as possible), consumers waltz up to a kiosk, select a TV show, game or movie, and then they choose whether they'd like to purchase or rent the title. The outfit has yet to come clean with specific pricing, but the (presumably mocked up) video embedded after the break shows rental rates of $1, $2, $3 and $4 for 3, 6, 9 and 12 days. There's also no clear indication how TV episodes and games will be handled, but we're hearing that users can either bring their own USB stick (USB 3.0 is accepted!) or opt to procure one directly from the machine. Swipe your Visa or Mastercard (c'mon, no Discover or AMEX?), and then... wait.

In fact, this is apt to be the biggest hurdle. What are the resolutions being offered? What if you select a 1080p film that's 7GB, and only have a 4GB USB drive? Or better yet, what if you've got a 8GB USB 2.0 drive and a doctor's appointment in ten minutes? Comically enough, the demonstration video actually shows the patron playing a game of poker while she waits for the transfer to complete -- something tells us that's not going to go over well with prospective customers waiting in line. We're guessing that most folks will peace right on out if the wait to purchase something from a box exceeds a few minutes, and given the very nature of this scheme, it sounds like that scenario is almost guaranteed to happen ad nauseum. At any rate, expect to see the first of these popping up in two to three months, and meanwhile we'll be digging for more details on pricing and distribution plans.

Continue reading Flix on Stix kiosks coming soon: it's like Redbox, but with USB thumb drives

Flix on Stix kiosks coming soon: it's like Redbox, but with USB thumb drives originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Dec 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox announces plans to enter streaming business next year

Donald Melanson — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 14:41:00 EST

It may not be quite the same obvious transition that Netflix made, but it looks like DVD kiosk company Redbox will soon be making a push of its own into the streaming business. That word comes straight from the CEO of parent company Coinstar, Paul Davis, who told listeners to the company's recent earnings call that it is in "detailed negotiations with a number of highly interested parties" to launch a "Redbox-branded" streaming service sometime next year. That would seem to suggest that Redbox will be relying on a partner already established in the field rather than rolling its own service, but Davis was otherwise light on details, adding only that streaming represents a "significant opportunity" for the company. That doesn't mean Redbox will be getting out of the kiosk business anytime soon, though -- according to Davis, there's still a "long, profitable life ahead" there.

Redbox announces plans to enter streaming business next year originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Warner says Netflix 30 day delay works like a charm

Ben Drawbaugh — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 20:12:00 EST

Those who love to rent discs on the cheap were less than thrilled about the 30 day delay for Netflix and Redbox, but Warner is happy to report that the strategy paid off. We suspected as much after the latest DEG numbers showed a healthy rebound the quarter after the windows were enforced, but there's nothing like hearing it straight from the source. For those who missed it, the digital download and streaming services were the real winner there as they're still day-and-date with Blu-ray sales, and the studios are keen on 'em. Warner's CFO even went so far as to say "Digital is going to be good for our business, we think it is a great time to be in our business." To which we say, any business that isn't losing money is a great business to be in. So while many seemed to strongly oppose the new windows when announced, months later it seems most have learned that it's better to be patient and save money, than to pay $6 to stream a blocky mess.

Warner says Netflix 30 day delay works like a charm originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 03 Oct 2010 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox crosses a billion rentals and celebrates with a giveaway

Richard Lawler — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:43:00 EST

Someone (we're looking at you, Ben) notched Redbox's billionth rental recently in Tampa, Florida recently, and to celebrate the company's launched a "Thanks a Billion" giveaway. Renting a disc during the promotion (or sending a letter through the mail, no e-) nets a free rental, while the real prizes start with "Golden Ticket" rentals -- 50 codes placed on DVDs across America that are worth a $500 gift card -- plus a grand prize of a Sony 52-inch HDTV, surround sound system, Blu-ray player and some movies...or a trip to the People's Choice Awards. We know that's not really a choice for you, so all that's left is to check out the details and map of areas where Golden Ticket are located on the official website.

Continue reading Redbox crosses a billion rentals and celebrates with a giveaway

Redbox crosses a billion rentals and celebrates with a giveaway originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Sep 2010 14:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Is your local Redbox hiding a touch of Blu?

Richard Lawler — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:02:00 EST

If you're like some of us, and Redbox's Blu-ray availability search came up empty even after the company announced it's expanding high definition rentals to all locations, it may be time to look again. At several locations in Michigan, and also experienced by our friends at HighDefDiscNews, even though the official search page still says there's no BluBoxes to be found, checking the Blu-ray category of local Redbox kiosks online (as seen above) reveals they've already added a few movies as recently as this week. It's like the state motto says "If you seek $1.50 Blu-ray rentals, look about you," or something like that.

Is your local Redbox hiding a touch of Blu? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox rolling out $1.50 Blu-ray rentals at 13,000-plus kiosks, nationwide by fall

Richard Lawler — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:31:00 EST

It's really no surprise that Redbox is going nationwide with its $1.50 Blu-ray rentals, at every step along the way of its Hollywood dealmaking, the company has pointed out its aim towards procuring a supply of high definition movies, and now the day is finally here. The high definition disc packing kiosks currently number 13,300, and the plan is to have Blu-ray in all 26,000 locations by the fall. While we spotted plenty of Blu-ray enabled locations with a San Francisco zip code, other areas in the Midwest and East Coast weren't so lucky. The site points out a few of the movies on offer, including Green Zone, Book of Eli and Bounty Hunter, but there's no way to check which movies are in stock at each box. Of course, at this price, we might be willing to take our chances until Redbox gets things straightened out, or starts offering an online competitor to Netflix.

Continue reading Redbox rolling out $1.50 Blu-ray rentals at 13,000-plus kiosks, nationwide by fall

Redbox rolling out $1.50 Blu-ray rentals at 13,000-plus kiosks, nationwide by fall originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox updates site for Blu-ray search, most kiosks still not updated for Blu-ray find

Richard Lawler — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:56:00 EST

The good news is now there's a dedicated page on the Redbox website for finding kiosks stocked with $1.50/night rental Blu-ray discs, but the bad news is... we can't find one anywhere near our zip code. Apparently if we did live on such hallowed ground, it would even point out recent Blu-ray movies added to the kiosks making the decision to watch Matt Damon in The Green Zone tonight as easy as possible. Hit the source link to begin your own search for high definition movies, hopefully it turns out better than ours so far.

Redbox updates site for Blu-ray search, most kiosks still not updated for Blu-ray find originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paramount, Redbox keep DVDs and Blu-ray discs in kiosks the same day they go on sale

Richard Lawler — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 17:46:00 EST

It looks like not all of the remaining Hollywood studios are putting the 30-day brakes on providing movies to Redbox, as Paramount has concluded after a ten month study that it has "minimal" effect on DVD sales. Dennis Maguire, President of Paramount Home Entertainment says the company is "allowing the consumer a choice of how to consume our movies while maximizing the profitability of our releases in the home entertainment window" while Redbox prez Mitch Lowe looked forward to joint marketing programs. That puts another studio on deck to provide the Blu-ray rentals we're expecting to see later this year and is a pretty sharp contrast to recent deals with Fox and Warner delaying low cost rentals to protect their day one sales and premium rentals on video on-demand.

Continue reading Paramount, Redbox keep DVDs and Blu-ray discs in kiosks the same day they go on sale

Paramount, Redbox keep DVDs and Blu-ray discs in kiosks the same day they go on sale originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox CEO suggests $1.50 rate for Blu-ray rentals

Richard Lawler — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 19:09:00 EST

Along with the repeated indications Redbox would expand its Blu-ray rentals this year, there's been hints that it would have to raise prices beyond its standard $1 / night DVD rate. Home Media Magazine reports President Mitch Lowe mentioned during his keynote address at the Entertainment Supply Chain Academy Edge conference that the likely price is $1.50, which seems low enough to keep customers happy and -- judging by the recent slew of deals -- will apparently keep Hollywood studios happy also. to that end, his speech also cited NPD data indicating customers said they wouldn't rent or purchase many of the movies they obtain at the kiosks any other way, while 41% of customers rent before making a decision to buy. Also on deck for Redbox are sales of catalog titles for $5 / $7 / $9 -- so let us know, would you appreciate the option to buy, not just rent, from your nearest vending machine?

Redbox CEO suggests $1.50 rate for Blu-ray rentals originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 19:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox deal with Fox puts a 4 week hold on new releases, starting with Avatar

Richard Lawler — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 15:43:00 EST

Consider that Redbox / Fox lawsuit cancelled -- as well any plans you had to watch Avatar this weekend for a buck a day. Under their new distribution agreement (starting with this week's blockbuster flick) the movie maker will directly supply Redbox but only 28 days after a movie is released and with the directive they will not be resold later. No real surprises here considering the recent slew of similar agreements affecting our favorite budget rental options, including the note that this applies to Blu-ray discs as well, with no word when they will be available outside of "testing in select markets." It's cool, we were just waiting to watch The Blind Side this weekend anyway.

Continue reading Redbox deal with Fox puts a 4 week hold on new releases, starting with Avatar

Redbox deal with Fox puts a 4 week hold on new releases, starting with Avatar originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Apr 2010 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Poll: Will 30-day rental windows pull you away from Netflix & Redbox?

Richard Lawler — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 12:15:00 EST

Blockbuster and the cable VOD consortium have been busy trumpeting the fact they're getting many of the new releases in HD as soon as they hit shelves for sale... while Netflix and Redbox aren't. But will that matter to customers lulled into an all-you-can-eat & $1 per night stupor by the latest gladiators to dominate the rental arena? Let us know how it looks to you.

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[Image via eHomeUpgrade]

Poll: Will 30-day rental windows pull you away from Netflix & Redbox? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Apr 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Would you want to stream movies from Redbox?

Ben Drawbaugh — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 15:41:00 EST

Surveying your users can be a great way to figure out what other types of services they might be interested in, but it can also tip your hand to future plans. Redbox recently surveyed its users asking 'em what they'd think about paying $3.95 a month for a subscription to an unlimited streaming movie service. The cool twist here is that it includes four free kiosk rentals for that price -- the movies shown in the survey were of the older variety. No surprise that Redbox would want to get in on this game and at the price we'd expect, with the correct hardware partners, it could be a valuable service -- assuming its in HD of course.

[Thanks, Paul!]

Continue reading Would you want to stream movies from Redbox?

Would you want to stream movies from Redbox? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Warner / Blockbuster deal keeps movies out of kiosks for a month

Richard Lawler — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 17:38:00 EST

Just in case Warner's ideal demarcation between release windows wasn't clear enough, it's struck a new deal with Blockbuster splitting rental dates for movies. Just like Redbox and Netflix, Warner movies are now on a 28-day delay before they appear in rental kiosks, but are available for rent at store locations or by mail on the same day they go on sale. Blockbuster CEO James Keyes calls the four-week lead an agreement that "reinforces Blockbuster's position as the most convenient source for new movies" but we're figuring with steady competition from VOD services (including its own Blockbuster On Demand, which will maintain day-and-date releases,) it will still have a tough time clawing back ground lost to the competition. First flicks under the new deal? The Blind Side and Sherlock Holmes.

Warner / Blockbuster deal keeps movies out of kiosks for a month originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Mar 2010 17:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox planning to expand Blu-ray availability around the middle of this year

Richard Lawler — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:23:00 EST

According to statements by Coinstar CEO Paul Davis, we should expect to see Blu-ray discs appearing in more Redbox kiosks around the middle of this year. Specifically called out in its deal with Warner, Home Media Magazine reports he also mentioned the final price for HD rentals is undecided but would "for sure be higher than our standard DVDs." We're thinking $2 a night, any other guesses?

Redbox planning to expand Blu-ray availability around the middle of this year originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Blockbuster, Redbox adding rental kiosks at ridiculous speed

Richard Lawler — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:57:00 EST

The DVD rental kiosk war continues to heat up, with NCR acquiring competitor DVDPlay to add around 1,300 kiosks under its Blockbuster Express umbrella, while Coinstar joyfully announced its surpassed expectations with the rollout of Redbox, now numbering 22,210 installations. For the last six months its maintained a pace of more than one kiosk every hour, 24/7. Is there anywhere you'd like to see one of these automated dispensaries that doesn't have one yet? Odds are there will be three new ones by the time you finish reading this post.

Blockbuster, Redbox adding rental kiosks at ridiculous speed originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox sues Warner and Fox for retailer interference

Ben Drawbaugh — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:11:00 EST

Even though only a few Redbox kiosks actually offer Blu-ray Discs for rent, we still find the company's trials and tribulations with the studios entertaining and newsy. In this latest complaint, Redbox claims that Warner and Fox have instructed retailers to only allow Redbox kiosk operators to buy three copies of any given title, thereby preventing Redbox from renting movies day and date with the disc's retail release. Besides the obvious fact that the studios are being jerks here, it really gets our legal thoughts running about one's right to buy as many of something as one wants. Now we're pretty sure all this is just a way for Redbox to gain leverage in inevitable kick-back negotiations, but that doesn't make it any less entertaining or interesting.

Redbox sues Warner and Fox for retailer interference originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox testing out movie distribution without discs, boxes, red

Richard Lawler — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:50:00 EST

Downloads and streaming may not be ready to overtake discs yet, but it's become standard practice for anyone in the business of delivering round platters to peek into online options and Redbox is the latest one. Word from VideoBusiness is the company has a trial program going with everyone's favorite partner CinemaNow where customers prepay for rental packages and get a gift card that can be redeemed for the online movies. At a $1 a day, we don't think Redbox is close to being overtaken by the online space, but obviously it is trying to figure out where to go next with its business, and a hybrid deal for movies we don't have to get off the couch -- or put pants on -- to watch is as good of a plan as any.

Filed under: Industry, Internet

Redbox testing out movie distribution without discs, boxes, red originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Redbox scores in first round for the fight for $1 day-and-date rentals

Ben Drawbaugh — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 08:47:00 EST

The first preliminary verdict came down against Universal yesterday when a judge refused to dismiss anti-trust charges. Redbox filed two other charges that didn't experience the same fate though, but we'd bet that Redbox was just hoping that at least one would stick. In the suit that did, the claim is that by instructing distributors to refuse to sell Universal titles to Redbox for the first 45 days after release, that Universal is using its influence to prevent Redbox from competing in the movie rental busines. This is far from a verdict though, and with Redbox buying Universal titles at retail, and the fact that this thing has already been going on for some time now, we'd be surprised if any of this was resolved any time soon.

Filed under: Industry, Blu-ray

Redbox scores in first round for the fight for $1 day-and-date rentals originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 08:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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