Walmart
Walmart is the latest to launch it's own video on demand (VOD) service that will model on Hulu's free streaming video service (now licensed to Yahoo View). Hulu was one of the first to pioneer VOD with ad content but has since relinquished their free episodes to Yahoo View. For those who miss watching shows with no strings attached on Hulu, you can still do so with Yahoo View.
Yesterday, Walmart announced that they are now offering a new subscription-free video streaming service known as Vudu Movies on Us. The new VOD program will introduce thousands of free movie and TV titles with, of course, ads throughout each episode. It's a relatively small price to pay for access to free shows but for those who dislike the disruption, there are always low monthly subscription options from alternate video streaming services. Netflix, for one, only comes in at $7.99 per month for the basic subscription and no ads. Other options include Hulu, currently being offered at $5.99 per month for a year (originally $7.99) but will still feature limited commercial breaks. For those with Amazon Prime membership, you can also access their video streaming library at no additional cost with options to purchase add-on from networks like Starz. The average Prime membership will run you $99 annually ($49 for students) but they've recently launched monthly subscription bundles which will cost $8.99 per month for those who only want access to Prime Video.
Walmart
“As part of the Walmart family, Vudu is always looking for new ways for customers to save money – and nothing is more affordable than free. With Vudu Movies on Us, customers can watch HD movies and TV for free, and on-demand, with limited commercials”
- Jeremy Verba, vice president and general manager of Vudu
Vudu Movies on Us will be accessible on virtually every digital platform and you'll find titles like "Mad Max", "True Grit", "School of Rock" and more for free. The free streaming service currently does not offer subscription but for those looking to stream ad-free movies or TV titles, you can always head over to Vudu's main site for the latest rentals which will run a little over $5 with discount rentals available.
Tip: for T-Mobile users, download the T-Mobile Tuesday app! T-Mobile Tuesday offers often consist of free Vudu movie credits. Neat huh?
Head over to Vudu Movies on Us and sign up for free access to tons of movies and shows! Here's how you can get started (directions are taken from Walmart):
To access Vudu Movies on Us, customers:
1. Log on to Vudu on their web browser, mobile or living room device.
2. Click on the “New” tab on their desktop, or “Spotlight” tab on their living room or mobile device.
3. Click “Movies on Us” to access thousands of free movies or TV titles with limited ads.
In addition to offering VOD streaming at full HD 1080p resolution with Dolby Digital sound, viewers will be able to access Vudu Movies on Us across most smart TVs, Blu-ray players, and devices like Roku, Chromecast, PS4, and Xbox One.
