Netflix is finally making the transition to new audiences and finally is expanding their service as well as their movie and tv streaming service to our neighbors up north in good old Canada.  We have talked about possible international expansion in the past, mainly across the pond over in Europe, but it seems that the international expansion is starting with Canada first, which makes sense.  It is bringing the service to Canada without the necessary disc to play streaming videos, something that I currently have to use.  This is a huge accomplishment for Netflix, and one which we will surely see expand to other international markets in the upcoming year.

Netflix’s core service is the disc rental service, although they are making leap and bound strides in the streaming of content market, and are now really focusing on that sector.  As streaming video increases this will further make for more international expansion easier and will vastly open up new markets to the giant rental service.

This is a smart move for Netflix and I’m glad to see they are taking the steps that they previously said they would.  They are adjusting to the new technologies and times and their fan base is requesting more streaming video. They are also working on improving the technology and getting the rights of more movies and newer releases to bring to their customers.  Not only will streaming video be easier to bring to new markets, but it also will cut the costs of its large distribution centers of discs.  The more people stream, the less they will rent the physical discs, cutting costs, widening their profit margins.

I would expect Blockbuster to try to dip their hands in something similar, although the former rental giant has been blown out of the water in recent years, and doesn’t look like it will be breathing much longer.  This is the perfect move and strategy for Netflix, and if they can secure the movie rights, this will be a huge win for them.

What do you think about Netflix’s plans to go more into streaming video and to push into international markets?