Blockbuster and TiVo announced they are joining forces to deliver Blockbuster's library of digital movie titles directly to the television set via TiVo DVRs. BLOCKBUSTER OnDemand, featuring content to both buy and rent, will be integrated into TiVo Series2, Series3, TiVo HD, and TiVo HD XL DVRs, the companies said.
The move will make it easier for all broadband connected TiVo subscribers to download Blockbuster's content and enjoy a complete television entertainment experience on their individual schedules using TiVo from one remote control.
TiVo DVRs will be sold at Blockbuster stores in the U.S. as well as online at blockbuster.com. Additionally, the companies said that they would implement a cross-marketing campaign.
"We are excited to be teaming with TiVo, the company that created the DVR, to make Blockbuster's entertainment content readily available to their millions of subscribers," said Jim Keyes, Blockbuster Chairman and CEO. "Ultimately, our vision is to work with TiVo so that their subscribers can access movies not only through our OnDemand service but also from our stores and through our by-mail service as well. Regardless of a film's availability - through VOD or on DVD - we want to work with TiVo to provide their subscribers unprecedented access to movie content."
The companies expect to have the BLOCKBUSTER OnDemand service integrated into TiVo DVRs in the second half of 2009.
Blockbuster video rental company is playing catch-up to rival Netflix, which already offers free instant streaming of its movies and TV shows through TiVo DVRs and other devices with its "Watch Instantly" service.
But unlike Netflix, Blockbuster's fee-based TiVo offering will include new releases available two to four weeks after they hit video rental stores - ahead of pay-per-view.
TiVo users will be able to rent 10,000 Blockbuster titles for $1.99 to $3.99, and purchase movies for $14.99 to $19.99 each.
TiVo has also deals with Amazon.com and its software is licensed by Comcast, Cox Communication and DirecTV Group Inc. for use with their set-top boxes. TiVo has 3.3 million subscribers, of which 1.6 million own standalone TiVo DVRs.