Youtube in Talks Offer Streaming Movie Rentals

The Wall Street journal has reported that Youtube is in talks with 4 major movies studios, Lions Gate Entertainment Corp., Sony Corp., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc. and Time Warner Inc.'s Warner Bros, to offer retail movie rentals. These rentals would be payed, about $4 per movie, or could be ad-supported. The negotiations aren't anywhere near finished but this could help Hollywood survive the dwindling DVD market.

Netflix subscribers recieve unplayable cracked discs

Many Netflix subscribers are receiving Blu-Ray discs from the service that arrive cracked and unable to be played. One of the main reasons this is happening is because Blu-Ray discs are made differently then normal DVD's. Standard DVD's have 2 two clear polycarbonate discs with metal in between to record data. Blu-Ray discs, on the other hand, uses a single polycarbonate disc and is recorded on top of the disc, making it more vulnerable to scratches. This may not be only the fault of the discs though. Much fewer Blockbuster customers have reported problems with their discs, suggesting Netflix has issues wit the handling of their discs. Ironically, these reports come in as Netflix is preparing to hike up Blu-Ray rental fees 20%. These reports have been around since as early as 2007 in the Netflix forums. Netflix replied to these claim by blaiming the Post Office. So I'd just recommend you check those little red envelopes with a tad more scrutiny. You can get more information from Wired.

Youtube takes on Hulu: Adds "Shows" Section

Youtube added a "Shows" section to its video section today, apparently try to take on the 10 ton behemoth that is Hulu. Youtube has already been offering Movies for months (though you may not notice it). This new features adds shows from MGM, Sony, CBS and other companies. Most of the shows, though, are about a decade too late to attract any viewers. Not exactly very tactical, when you can watch last night's episode of 30 Rock on Hulu. Hopefully Google's weight will get some better shows in the future. (well, there's always reruns of Astro Boy).
One of the nice features is the fact that you can "dim the lights" to get a better view. The size of the video is also set to a large size by default, with the option to make the video smaller. Youtube may be a viable source for television shows online if they can get better content. It would be nice to see Youtube get away from amateur videos. (sure, we all like the Evolution of Dance, but it still would be nice) You can go rot your brain at Youtube Shows.