Dallas-based Blockbuster has been fighting a losing battle with Netflix's streaming and DVD-by-mail services for years, but its new Blockbuster Movie Pass may even the score for the beleaguered company.
Stemming from its purchase by Dish Network, the new movie pass will allow subscribers to rent DVDs-by-mail and access streaming content from Blockbuster and Dish's libraries for $10 per month -- on top of Dish's standard service plans.
The move lets folks with both Dish Network satellite TV service and Blockbuster Online movie rental service combine their services to a single service accessible on additional devices. That moves contrary to Netflix's most recent announcement to split their streaming and by mail services into two brands.
With the massive Blockbuster DVD library, plus unlimited access to streaming content from Starz, Epix, Sony Movie Channel, Hallmark, and Blockbuster's VOD library, the company says the plan will give subscribers access to more than 130,000 titles.
Dish subscribers will begin having access to the service on Oct. 1, but those wanting a Netflix-like competition without satellite TV will have to wait for the company to announce future plans and costs.
