Netflix announced via its blog that it would discontinue adding selections to DVD Queues for steaming devices. Netflix claims that they are doing this so that they can put more of a focus on dealing with instant streaming content and that users can still manager their DVD selections by visiting the Netflix site. Full statement below:
"Hi there, it’s Jamie Odell, director of product management at Netflix, with an update for members who add DVDs to their queue from the device they use to watch instantly. We’re removing the “Add to DVD Queue” option from streaming devices. We’re doing this so we can concentrate on offering you the titles that are available to watch instantly. Further, providing the option to add a DVD to your Queue from a streaming device complicates the instant watching experience and ties up resources that are better used to improve the overall streaming functionality. This change does not impact the Netflix Web site, where most members manage their DVD Queues."
Obviously, this does not affect devices such as the Wii, Xbox 360 and PS3 because users don't have access to DVD queues from those devices. Those users that stream predominately from the web also don't need to worry about it because the option is still available. Nevertheless, judging by the 4,550 comments on the Netflix blog, many users are livid over the news. The main complaint among users is that it makes it tougher to search for movies and to differentiate availability immediately. Smart phone users are particularly agitated by the move.
Source: Netflix Blog
