LG Blu-ray player streams Netflix.

[Smokey]

On Thursday, LG Electronics launched the LG BD300 Network Blu-ray Disc player (due this fall for an under $500 retail price), a DVD player that will play both Blu-ray and standard definition discs. As a bonus, the player will also allow consumers to instantly stream any of the 12,000 movies and TV episodes available to Netflix subscribers.

With a wired broadband connection, Netflix members can access their account information and "Queue" via the BD300. Once there, customers can browse movie selections, read synopses, and rate movies. They will also be able to pause, fast forward, and rewind their film choices with the BD300's remote control.

Over time, LG expects to add links to other Internet video providers, like those that offer pay-per-view movies. New services could be added to existing Blu-ray players through a software upgrade, Mr. Jason said.


The BD300's home screen lets you access Netflix movies, DVD/Blu-ray discs, and digital music and photos.(Credit: LG)

[Ajani]

LG is hedging their bets... Smart move.... produce players capable of handling both discs and downloads... I'm sure we'll see more products like this coming out soon....

[Smokey]

I agree, that is a smart move. Be able to watch streaming movie without a PC is a new concept. The only bottle neck I see in this concept (at least in US) probably will be the internet connection where high bandwidth is spotty at times.

[Rich-n-Texas]

...And I foresee this player as being the first one to break.

[Smokey]

...And I foresee this player as being the first one to break.

At least wait till the reviews comes out for this player before running it down

[Sir Terrence the Terrible]

Take a good look at this bluray player because if Toshiba has its way, this is what DVD 2.0 will look like. It will be an upconverting player with a internet connection to access both extra value content from the studios, and downloads off the net. Mark my words on this one, as they just approved the logo at the last DVD forum meeting.

[Rich-n-Texas]

At least wait till the reviews comes out for this player before running it down

I wonder how well that (at the time) be all - end all LG Blu-ray/HD DVD player is selling these days?