The availability of physical media rental services through Netflix represents a specific distribution model wherein subscribers receive DVDs or Blu-ray discs by mail. This service, offered as an alternative to streaming, allowed users to access a broader catalog of titles, particularly those not available on the streaming platform due to licensing agreements or other factors.
The service provided benefits such as access to niche films, older releases, and content not yet readily available digitally. For consumers in areas with limited broadband infrastructure, it also offered a reliable method for accessing entertainment content. This model predates the widespread adoption of streaming and played a significant role in Netflix’s initial growth, establishing the company as a major player in home entertainment.
