HMV is launching online streaming to the UK market. A major retailer of DVDS & CDS is launching their own on-demand video streaming service. The service called HMV on-demand supplies top film titles, and it also links back to the main website of HMV for those consumers looking to purchase online from any of the titles usually found in stores.
The move from HMV is due to a significant decline in their retail stores. We will have to see whether this eventually means closing several of their retail stores across the country. The service will ultimately be compatible with all users, but initially, it will be for PC users and, at a later date, mobile and other connected devices.
HMV believes the time is right to offer such an on-demand digital service.
HMV will face competition from giants such as LoveFilm, which provides a subscription-based service to its consumers for the rental of the latest films. We wait in anticipation to see how this move from HMV does within the UK market and if, over time, the retailer decides it is necessary in other major countries across the world.