Netflix Giving Away Free Movies Now That Legacy Business Is Ending?
It’s soon to be the end of an era for those who have been using Netflix’s direct mail DVD program as, after 25 years, the company is calling the service quits. But, they’ve got one final trick up their sleeve as the platform will be giving those who remained loyal to the service 10 surprise titles from their queue on September 29. But, before you make room in your DVD collection to fit 10 new discs, you should know that they’re expected to be returned just like the rest of the rentals.
Netflix isn’t doing themselves any favors when it comes to how the end of the DVD program is being handled because, although the sentiment behind sending dedicated users a handful of free titles to clear up their queue is nice, it makes things a bit confusing. With the rentals ending the same day that the extras go out, many have presumed – rightfully so – that they’ll be able to keep the discs. However, this is in no way the case.
A spokesperson for Netflix explained that, while they want subscribers to enjoy the free batch of rentals, they do expect them back.
According to a statement via NPR, a spokesperson for Netflix explained that, while they want subscribers to enjoy the free batch of rentals, they do expect them back. Hanging in the balance is the date on which those 10 freebies will need to be returned. Because they go out on the day that the program comes to an end, the team at the streamer is expected to release a date down the line.
The fall of Netflix’s DVD program has been a long time coming. What started as a genius idea to blend their growing streaming options with shipped-to-your-home viewing options has dwindled in necessity over the last two decades. Since then, the streamer has provided its subscribers with an array of titles both from their own studio as well as others.
In a statement released surrounding the end of the DVD program, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos echoed that sentiment, saying that the streamer has always wanted to “provide the best service for our members,” but notes that as the demand for the discs has gone down, so has their ability to supply the top titles.
He also tipped his hat to the consumers that made the giant steps into streaming possible as they not only took in the seemingly endless content on the platform but also ordered DVDs to binge their favorite shows that weren’t available for streaming at the time.
Before Netflix shuts down its direct mail DVD program, it will recognize existing customers by offering them 10 free movies.
Since Netflix got its start back in 1998, it spearheaded the change that would ultimately see television networks competing with streamers. The first of its kind, the company would go on to spawn rivals including HBO Max (now known simply as Max), Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and more as networks have seen the value in giving their customers the option of online streaming.
When Will The Mail Service End?
Still, as we head into the final month of Netflix’s DVD rentals, it is a bit sad to see such a groundbreaking program come to an end. Just as Blockbusters and other rental businesses seem to be an obsolete thing of the past, it seems time is also ticking on straight-to-home DVD rentals. Netflix’s DVD mail service is set to end on September 29.
