A while ago, we shared that Netflix aimed to be available here in Singapore before 2017, as part of their plans to take over the world go global and be in 200 markets by the end of next year.
Well, it seems we won’t have to wait much longer, as they announced today that they will be launching in Singapore in early 2016 (which is barely 4 months away now). This will soon be followed up with launches in South Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
According to the press release, what this means for local subscribers is that they will be able to “instantly watch a curated selection of popular TV shows and movies in high-definition or even Ultra HD 4K on nearly any Internet-connected screen.” So no more torrenting Game of Thrones or Dallas Buyers Club, then. The launch will also bring with it a range of kid-friendly programmes for children.
Netflix will also be opening an office in Singapore in the coming months (have you got your resumes on standby?), and aim to expand further into Asia after securing a place in the local market. Seems like they’re on track with their plans to go global by 2017.
Reed Hastings, chief executive officer of Netflix, explained why Singapore was a clear choice for the Internet television network: “As the central hub in Southeast Asia, Singapore is a sophisticated and diverse place that will find much to love about the Netflix service…The combination of increasing Internet speeds and availability of smartphones and TVs will provide consumers with the anytime, anywhere ability to enjoy their favorite movies and TV shows on Netflix.”
While subscription fees for the upcoming service have not been revealed — they only let on that it would be available at a “low monthly price” — it’s pretty clear what the arrival of Netflix to Singapore means for both consumers and media industry players.
With a convenient platform to stream and watch our favourite programmes, we’ll hopefully be willing to pay a small fee for the service and support creatives (i.e., stop illegally downloading stuff) at the same time.