In the current digital era, entertainment becomes an inseparable part of daily life. One name often mentioned is Netflix, a video streaming platform that has revolutionized the way we watch movies and TV series. If you just heard or want to delve further, this article will provide a complete guide about what Netflix is, its history, its superior features, to how to subscribe and use it. With more than 200 million global subscribers, Netflix has become the main choice for high-quality content lovers. Let us discuss in depth so you can utilize this service optimally.
Netflix is a subscription video on-demand (SVOD) service that provides unlimited access to a video content library, including movies, television series, documentaries, and children's shows. Launched in 1997, Netflix initially operated as a DVD rental service by mail in the United States. However, since 2007, this company switched to an online streaming model, which made it a pioneer in the digital entertainment industry. Currently, Netflix is a platform that allows users to watch content anytime and anywhere, as long as connected to the internet. There are no disturbing ads, and you can choose video resolution from SD to 4K UHD depending on the subscription package. In Indonesia, Netflix has been available since 2016 and continues to add local content like Indonesian production series to attract more users. With an AI-based recommendation algorithm, Netflix personalizes the viewing experience based on your watch history, so there are always relevant content suggestions. To understand further, Netflix is not just a video library. It is an entertainment ecosystem that covers original productions, collaborations with major studios like Warner Bros. and Disney, and interactive features like story choices in the series Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. If you wonder what Netflix is, the answer is simple: it is a gateway to a world of limitless entertainment, which can be accessed through various devices.
The journey of Netflix started on August 29, 1997, when Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph founded this company in Scotts Valley, California. Initially, Netflix was an innovative DVD rental service because there were no late fees, which was a common problem in traditional video stores like Blockbuster at that time. DVD delivery by mail became a hit, and in 2000, Netflix already had 300,000 subscribers. The year 2007 became a turning point when Netflix launched the streaming service. This allowed users to watch movies instantly without waiting for physical delivery. In 2010, Netflix expanded internationally, entering the Canadian market, and then Europe and Asia. In Indonesia, the official launch in 2016 was welcomed enthusiastically due to the availability of Indonesian language content and accurate subtitles. Currently, Netflix has produced thousands of hours of original content, including global hits like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Squid Game. In 2023, this company reported revenue of more than 30 billion US dollars, with more than 260 million subscribers in 190 countries. Netflix also adapts to trends, like adding download features for offline viewing and integration with mobile games. This history shows how Netflix is an innovator that continues to develop, from DVD to streaming, and now to interactive entertainment.