Binge-watchers, TV junkies and movie buffs based in Asia will soon get to enjoy watching their favorite films and series in a new platform. iFlix, dubbed as the "Netflix of Asia," a subscription based video-on-demand service, will be offering at least 10,000 hours of viewing pleasure for its subscribers and its debut is nearing, according to The Malay Online.
Following similar business models as Netflix and Amazon Prime Instant Video in the United States, iFlix is expected to have an affordable subscription rate at $3 a month. The site's services may also be shared by one subscriber to up to five devices, using the computer, television, tablets or smartphones.
The video library offered by iFlix is extensive, as the site has partnered with major studios like BBC Worldwide, Fox and Warner Bros for its selections. As the site is already in its "private viewing" phase, some favorites that are already available for streaming include TV series like "The Big Bang Theory," "Sherlock," "Modern Family," or "Homeland," and movies like "Superman Returns" and "Batman Begins."
But being geared towards the Asian market, iFlix is also going to offer Asian movies from Japan, India, Philippines, China and Indonesia, as well as TV shows like the popular Korean telenovelas. Just like Netflix, the site will also be developing and producing original content in the future, according to Rappler.
iFlix plans to boost its services by offering mobility for its users.
"We saw that Netflix had pioneered a great Internet TV business model, and wondered if that would work in Asia with a focus on mobile," said Patrick Grove, the CEO of Catcha Group, which operates the streaming site, in a report from Vulcan Post.
The service also plans to help curb piracy problems in the region. "People don't necessarily want to be pirates, they just want a cost-effective amazing proposition and that is what iFlix brings to the market," added Grove.
Users can begin registering at iFlix for a chance of a "private view." The site is expected to roll out completely across Asian territories this year.
