Netflix’s Internet video service is about to join the programming line-up of three small cable-TV providers in the U.S.
The agreements with Atlantic Broadband, RCN and Grande Communications gives Netflix’s subscription service a channel on the TiVo boxes that the three cable services provide their customers.
The deals represent a breakthrough for Netflix Inc. as it tries to make its Internet video service more like premium cable-TV channels such as HBO and Showtime.
Netflix subscribers typically have to buy a separate device, such as video game console or a player from Roku or Apple Inc., to stream video on to their TVs.
Atlantic and RCN are adding Netflix to their line-ups Monday. Netflix will join Grande next month.
Collectively, the three cable-TV services have about 820,000 subscribers.
Associated Press