India’s Videocon d2h to make Netflix available via set-tops

Videocon d2h COO Himanshu Patel with Reed Hastings

Indian DTH pay TV operator Videocon d2h has struck a deal with Netflix to provide access to the streaming video service direct from its internet-connected set-top boxes.

Videocon d2h is providing access to the service via a dedicated button on its HD Smart Connect set-top remote controls.

The operator’s set-tops can be connected to the internet via WiFi or Ethernet, with a minimum internet speed requirement of 2Mbps.

Videocon d2h offers over 600 channels via its DTH service, in addition to a range of connected TV services including access to English-language content and games. Other services include d2h Hollywood HD, d2h Music, d2h Spice, and d2h Cinema in both standard definition and HD.

Reed Hastings, co-founder and CEO, Netflix, said, “While there are millions of consumers all over the world using Netflix, enjoying the ability to watch anywhere, anytime and the incredible variety of programming we offer, we are really only at the beginning of our journey here in India. This partnership with Videocon d2h is important for us in the way we reach to the diversity of the Indian market and will make it much easier for Indian consumers to watch Netflix.

Anil Khera, CEO of Videocon d2h, said, “With Netflix on board, Videocon d2h is enhancing its position as the customer’s first choice of entertainment. Integrating premium entertainment services like Netflix into our services offered via HD Smart Connect set-top box will make us even more attractive for our consumers. We will continue to deliver exceptional entertainment and give consumer the power to view content and enhance our leadership in homes with Wifi/broadband.”

Netflix has been competing head on with Amazon in India since the latter launched its service globally at the end of last year. Netflix recently secured exclusive SVOD rights to movies from India’s Red Chillies Entertainment, while Amazon Prime Video revelaed a raft of original Indian series.