Cable Operators Take TiVo And Netflix

Three small MSOs have agreed to let their TiVo set top cable box integrate Netflix into the mix.  It means that cable customers in those communities with a leased TiVo box from the cable operator will be able to subscribe directly to Netflix and receive incrementally more TV shows and movies.  And even more importantly for the customer, TiVo "will offer integrated search that spans not just Netflix, but also the live TV lineup and the operator’s video-on-demand service. Netflix will also be displayed like a 'channel' in the guide."  So searching for a show like Breaking Bad, a consumer would see that it can be accessed on different platforms,  through Netflix, on AMC's channel, and perhaps even on demand.    And for consumers, a meaningful benefit.

I also believe it is ultimately good news for these cable operators.  Consumers will enjoy the benefit of one box accessing multiple platforms of programming.  And it will demonstrate that Netflix and other OTT video services are not necessarily cable cord cutters; rather, they can live harmoniously on the same infrastructure.  And these same consumers will be taking both cable and broadband service from their respective MSOs to access their content.  Hopefully other MSOs will learn from this initial launch and recognize that OTT may be less a threat and more a partnership.  

will offer integrated search that spans not just Netflix, but also the live TV lineup and the operator’s video-on-demand service. Netflix will also be displayed like a "channel" in the guide. - See more at: http://www.multichannel.com/news/tv-apps/three-us-msos-launch-tivonetflix-mix/374096#sthash.4rxOOsmY.dpuf

will offer integrated search that spans not just Netflix, but also the live TV lineup and the operator’s video-on-demand service. Netflix will also be displayed like a "channel" in the guide. - See more at: http://www.multichannel.com/news/tv-apps/three-us-msos-launch-tivonetflix-mix/374096#sthash.4rxOOsmY.dpuf