Some folks think Netflix launched streaming fully formed. The reality is that when streaming launched, nothing about it could be considered "great." The streaming quality wasn’t there and the library of titles available to watch was sub-par. Which is why it was launched as a free add-on for subscribers. Also, at-launch, you could only watch via a PC. Then, eventually a Mac. But the challenge the company faced was how to tap into the TV. Smart TVs and internet-connected DVD players were not widespread. Enter gaming consoles. Why? Because the goal was to get Netflix on as many internet-connected devices as quickly as possible. And game consoles already had installed user bases in the tens of millions and their consoles were all connected to the internet. So Netflix partnered with Microsoft XBOX, Sony PS3, and, believe it or not, Nintendo Wii. This was a mock-up of the sticker used on XBOX360 LIVE Gold physical packaging from 2008. Note the title count (12,000) and the rarely defined free trial duration. This was before the move to a 1-month free trial. #streaming #netflix #microsoft #nintendo #sony #ps3 #xbox #wii #streaminghistory #OTT #netflixhistory …see more