Online streaming service Netflix has tied up with Softbank, a telecom giant in Japan where it will launch its video streaming service in Sept. 2.
On Monday, Netflix stated that its partnership with Softbank, one of Japan's leading internet providers and wireless carriers, would permit customers to have access to a Netflix subscription via their existing accounts with Softbank.
According to Fortune, Softbank clients will have the preference of getting a Netflix subscription at Softbank's retail stations and via the company's call centers or website and also through major electronics merchants. Those with existing Softbank broadband or mobile accounts will have the convenience of having their Netflix's monthly due added to their statement. Thus, there's no need for customers having to fill out added payment details. The Japanese firm will start pre-installing the Netflix app on its smartphones after October.
The Japanese expansion by the popular online streaming service is the current stage in the firm's quest for a global rollout which it hopes to complete by 2016, which by that time, Netflix has projected to be marketing in 200 countries its streaming service. Currently, Netflix is available in 50 countries and an analyst has predicted that its users could increase up to 100 million before 2020 ends. As of the moment, Netflix has about 65 million users worldwide.
The company has also revealed its cost for Japan: for standard definition service will be within the figure of 650 Japanese yen and for a family plan of ultra-high definition 1,450 yen, as per The Guardian.
Last year, Netflix expanded to a number of European countries and this year it has also began its launch in Australia. The company has encountered some glitches in its quest for worldwide domination, including in China, where there is a struggle. Rival Alibaba also gave Netflix a steep competition.
Meanwhile, The Japanese Times reported that Softbank President Ken Miyauchi praised Netflix's technological side. He said, "(Netflix) is distinctively different from regular video streaming firms, as its approach is very scientific."
To end, Miyauchi remarked that Softbank's partnership with Netflix arrived at a "win-win" scheme that would greatly benefit consumers in Japan.
