Netflix, one of the leading Internet TV streaming services in North America, made an announcement on Jan 6 at the CES 2016 in Las Vegas. That going forward, its Internet TV streaming services will be available to viewers in additional 130 countries around the globe. The service went live as soon as Netflix co-founder and Chief Executive, Reed Hastings made the announcement at CES 2016.
Hastings said, “Today you are witnessing the birth of a new global Internet TV network. With this launch, consumers around the world – from Singapore to St. Petersburg, from San Francisco to Sao Paulo – will be able to enjoy TV shows and movies simultaneously; no more waiting. With the help of the Internet, we are putting power in consumer’s hands to watch whenever, wherever and on whatever device.”
People in virtually all countries in Africa have already begun accessing Netflix the ‘conventional way’. You can view the full list of the additional 130 countries where Netflix is now live. Click here for the complete list of countries.
For a monthly fee, viewers around the world will view Netflix original series like Grace and Frankie, Marco Polo, Marvel’s Jessica Jones and Narcos among others. Viewers will also be able to view catalog of licensed TV series and movies.
Netflix has also revealed it plans to release 31 new and returning original series over the year 2016. Other Netflix production this year include two dozen original feature films and documentaries, 30 original kids’ series and a wide range of stand-up comedy specials. All these content will be available to all Netflix viewers at the same time across the world.
The bulk of Netflix content across many countries will be in English. However, Netflix has also added Arabic, both Simplified and Traditional Chinese, and Korean languages in addition to the 17 other languages it already supports.
“From today onwards, we will listen, and we will learn, gradually adding more languages, more content and more ways for people to engage with Netflix. We’re looking forward to bringing great stories from all over the world to people all over the world,” said Hastings.
Viewer in China will have to wait a little longer to view Netflix, as the company is exploring ways to offer its services over there. Additionally, it will not be available in North Korea, Syria and Crimea due to the restrictions the U.S. government has placed on American companies in the said countries.
For viewers in countries where Netflix has just launched, you can access Netflix on virtually any device with an Internet connection; PCs, tablets, smartphones, Smart TVs and gaming consoles. Netflix will give you the best possible streaming quality depending on Internet connection.
Africans reaction on Twitter to Netflix Everywhere
As soon as the Netflix Everywhere became public knowledge Kenyans and the rest of Africa took to social media to air their views on this development. They also analyzed how the Netflix vs DSTV competition will play out.
DSTV should come up with sport only package nobody watch their trash movies
— Kala (@fuwadii) January 7, 2016
Disruption equation: “Netflix Goes Global + “DSTV increases prices but often repeats content”= Chaos, panic and disorder at DSTV HQ — Carol Musyoka (@carolmusyoka) January 7, 2016
Dear @DStv_Kenya, @ZukuOfficial, Disrupt yourself or you’ll get disrupted. #NetflixInKenya #NetflixEverywhere
— Francis Waithaka (@waithash) January 7, 2016
We are gathered here today to pay our last tributes and respects to the memory of our departed friend, DSTv #NetFlix pic.twitter.com/B8M9ce4QTP — Mr. 6.0 (@FQanini) January 7, 2016
Netflix is not a threat to DSTV. No one pays for DSTV to watch movies. As long as DSTV still Carry Sports Content they’ll be good.
— SANCHEZZED! (@sickolia_) January 7, 2016
Netflix has launched across Africa. Should DSTV be worried? — CNN Africa (@CNNAfrica) January 7, 2016
DSTV Boxoffice killed video rental stores out of business, now it’s payback, thanks #NetflixSouthAfrica, you are going to change the game.
— Deon Govender (@djdeong) January 7, 2016
The subscription for Netflix per month is within the range of N1,600 to N2,000. But, DATA!!!!! It will end up on d same amount as DSTV. — Alausa Olawale (@YoungProf_MUFC) January 7, 2016
The major roadblock many people in Africa will have is the high cost of reliable and high-speed Internet connection.