Netflix moves to add Thai sub-titles
NETFLIX yesterday launched a Thai service that features sub-titles on overseas productions for the benefit of subscribers to the Internet-based television network.
Netflix has about 100 million members worldwide, with half in the company’s home base, the United States. The average user spends more than 30 hours a month watching Netflix content.
Jessica Lee, vice president of communications for Asia-Pacific at Netflix, said that while the company boasts a membership base of 100 million, some 250 million people could be tuning in as for each account, up to three people could be watching.
“We are delighted to offer a more local Netflix experience in Thailand where members can enjoy a variety of TV shows and movies - everything from globally popular Netflix original series to anime, kids content and Korean drama,” Lee said.
She said Netflix invested in technology and content to enable people to watch Netflix content seamlessly across Internet devices that include smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, computers, PlayStations and Wii U consoles.
David Burt, vice president for content planning and analysis, said that while Netflix was best known for its original series and famous US, European and Asian films, the company also provided a platform for potential storytellers to engage in partnerships.
Netflix this year announced an agreement with a Thai telecommunications partner, Advanced Info Service. “AIS is the first local partner, on promotion, we have here, The details of collaboration will come out soon,” Lee said.
Scott Mirer, vice president for the device partner ecosystem at Netflix, said the most popular screen for Netflix members was the TV monitor; in the United States, two-third of members watch Netflix content this way, while in Thailand it is a third, followed by tablets and smartphones.
Customers pay a monthly subscription fee starting at Bt280, after a free trial. Netflix offers three packages, ranging from Bt280 to Bt420 per month, based on criteria such as the number of devices allowed and the quality of download method for the content.
“After our content is fully localised in Thai, we hope to get a lot more members here,” Mirer said.
Anne Wallin, consumer communications lead for Asia-Pacific at Netflix, said the company had offices in Japan, Taiwan and Singapore.
“We do not have a representative office in Thailand, as all members are supported by our team from Singapore,” Wallin said.
Netflix said it was looking forward to adding more and more localised content under partnerships.
