Netflix has just announced a deal with NBC that should make all of its mobile apps much, much better.
The deal will bring much of NBC’s television content to Netflix streaming, which means you’ll be able to access these on the go with your iPhone, iPod touch or iPad. We’re also expecting a Netflix Android app in the not-too-distant future.
The deal brings every episode of “Saturday Night Live” to the mobile Netflix apps, as well as next-day broadcasts of the show for the next few years. Also, look for expanded availability of “30 Rock,” “The Office,” “Law & Order: SVU,” Friday Night Lights,” and Syfy shows like “Battlestar Galactica.”
“We are very pleased to continue our successful relationship with Netflix,” said Frances Manfredi, executive vice president for NBC Universal Domestic TV Distribution, in a prepared statement. “We applaud Netflix for recognizing the value of content like ‘SNL,’ ‘Friday Night Lights,’ ‘Monk,’ and ‘Battlestar Galactica’ to their subscribers.”
The move also comes as NBC is in a bit of a pissing match with Apple, as it doesn’t believe that the 99-cent renting model that will come with the new Apple TV is a good plan. Of course, the new Apple TV has Netflix streaming preloaded, so you’ll still be able to get that content.
The Internet movie company is simply killing it with its multi-platform strategy and its recent launch in Canada should only expand its user base. I’ve also found its mobile apps to be a pleasant experience, so you have to wonder how other mobile TV players will react.
We already know that things aren’t looking too bright for Flo TV. It recently added DVR capabilities and pay-per-day but Qualcomm is still looking to spin it off.
MobiTV would seem to be in a similar perilous position but it built the Verizon NFL app and it is seeing record-breaking usage.
Check out some footage of the streaming iPad app in action.
[Via Netflix]