Netflix Might Allow Offline Viewing Later This Year

BY Josiah HughesPublished Jun 24, 2016

Behemoth streaming service Netflix already occupies a significant chunk of our time when we've got decent wifi, but what about those moments when we're without a solid signal? How are we supposed to watch The Fundamentals of Caring when we're, say, camping in the middle of nowhere? Fortunately, offline viewing might become a thing later this year.

Industry sources have told trade company LightReading that the company is actively pursuing a "download and go" video model. The news was corroborated by multiple industry sources, who say it's somewhat of an "open secret."

Netflix has previously spoken out against the idea of offline viewing, explaining that users wouldn't like the idea of choosing what to download from the company's massive library.

Last month, however, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings said that the company should "keep an open mind" about offline video during an earnings call.

It's unclear whether the service would deliver offline viewing for all of its licensed titles or if it would simply offer that option for Netflix exclusives. Either way, forecasters are suggesting that offline viewing could come by the end of the year.

Thanks to Gizmodo for the tip.

 

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