LG Blu-ray player to stream Netflix

LG Electronics has unveiled what it claims is the first Blu-ray disc player that can instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix directly to the TV.

Available this autumn, the LG BD300 Network Blu-ray Disc Player will play high definition Blu-ray discs and up-scale standard DVDs to 1080p.

It will also allow Netflix subscribers to instantly stream more than 12,000 movies and TV episodes from Netflix to the TV at no additional charge.

Streaming content from Netflix to the TV will rely on a wired broadband connection and uses a Queue-based user interface.

Netflix members will use the Netflix website to add movies and TV episodes to their individual instant Queues. The choices will automatically be displayed on members' TVs and available to watch instantly through the LG player.

Once selected, movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds, according to LG.

"As Blu-ray player sales are expected to triple in three years, consumers are craving content and seeking a premium home entertainment experience," said Teddy Hwang, president of LG in the US.

"The BD300 is another LG industry first and provides consumers with an advanced high-def disc player with unparalleled flexibility and networked access for services such as Netflix."