Virgin Media strikes a deal with Netflix

Virgin Media has today announced a deal that will bring Netflix onto a pay-TV platform for the first time.

Using the Netflix app, Virgin Media TiVo households will be able to watch Netflix programmes through their set-top box. Netflix will be available to 1.7 million Virgin Media TiVo homes this year, starting with a pilot launching this week.

Netflix, which has an estimated 1.5 million UK subscribers, is home to a host of original and popular TV programmes, including House of Cards, Hemlock Grove, Arrested Development and Breaking Bad.

“We’re delighted to be bringing yet another groundbreaking service onto TV screens in millions of Virgin Media homes,” said Dana Strong, Virgin Media’s chief operating officer. “Netflix is a fabulous addition to Virgin Media TiVo, enabling our customers to enjoy even more of their favourite shows and movies simply and easily.”

The pilot begins this week with around 40,000 Virgin Media TiVo households already selected to use the Netflix app. For the pilot, the Netflix application will be available in the Apps & Games section of Virgin Media TiVo with Netflix members able to log-in using their existing Netflix credentials and new members able to sign up for Netflix via the app.

Netflix will be rolled out to all Virgin Media TiVo customers following the successful completion of the pilot later this year.

Bill Holmes, global head of business development, Netflix, added: “The UK has given Netflix a fantastic welcome and we’re excited to be partnering with Virgin Media to bring an amazing Netflix experience to Virgin Media customers.”