A service providing physical media rentals through the mail, it enables access to films not readily available on streaming platforms. Subscribers receive discs, watch them at their convenience, and return them using pre-paid envelopes, allowing for continual access to a queue of titles.
This distribution method offers several advantages. It caters to individuals with limited internet bandwidth or those residing in areas with unreliable streaming capabilities. Furthermore, it provides access to a wider selection of films, including older releases and titles with licensing restrictions preventing streaming availability. Historically, this service was a cornerstone of Netflix’s early business model and played a significant role in the company’s initial growth and subscriber acquisition.