Redbox’s Streaming Video Service Shuts Down Today

Courtesy of engadget.com

You can describe Redbox trying to compete with Netflix’s instant video streaming service as the story of David and Goliath, but with an alternate ending.

Engadget has reported that the Verizon-backed service has informed their customers that Redbox Instant will shut down just before midnight on today (Oct. 7). If you are a customer, then you can expect a notice about refunds on Friday.

The news doesn’t come as a surprise for some because Outerwall, Redbox’s parent company, were not really happy with the Instant’s subscriber numbers.  Include the fact that, because of a credit card fraud incident, the company was prevented from taking on any new customers for three months, and you have big reasons why Redbox Instant is shutting down.

It’s bad news if you enjoyed Redbox’s online rental service, but the good news is that you will still be able to rent from the kiosk.