Citing sources familiar with the matter, The Times of India states that the launch of the streaming service has the potential to disrupt the DTH (direct-to-home) market:
It's similar to Starbucks entering India. Everybody knew about it but cafe brands were late to react and Starbucks came and stole the show. We don't want to be caught on the wrong foot.
That's according to a spokesperson for Tata Sky, the largest set-top box provider in India. Netflix is set to offer Indian-centric programming such as Buniyaad, Nukkad and Malgudi Days, popular TV shows in the country.
When contacted by The Times of India, a Netflix spokesperson divulged that the streaming service is aiming to go "nearly global" by the end of next year:
We have said we plan to be nearly global by the end of 2016. We have nothing else to share at this point.
The statement doesn't necessarily confirm whether Netflix will indeed launch in India, but with the country witnessing mainstream adoption of 4G services and faster broadband access, the limitations that held streaming content providers back are no longer a concern. The launch of services such as Netflix also has the potential to reduce piracy in the country, which for most consumers is still the best way to access U.S.-based TV shows and movies.
Source: The Times of India
