Netflix shuts down its DVD-by-mail subscriptions

Netflix will no longer offer DVDs by mail. (Which, yes, it still has still operated — for now.)

“After an incredible 25-year run, we’ve decided to wind down DVD.com later this year,” Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos wrote. “Our goal has always been to provide the best service for our members but as the business continues to shrink that’s going to become increasingly difficult.”

Netflix, a home entertainment subscription service which sent DVDs straight to the customer’s door 20 years ago revolutionized how people enjoyed their leisure time. Netflix, founded in 1997, initially sold and rented DVDs. However, after the first year it focused solely on the rental market. Netflix revealed in an infographic that it was the very first DVD they shipped. Beetlejuice. Netflix’s monthly subscription model was introduced in 2000. It quickly replaced its business of renting DVDs. Netflix’s streaming service was launched in 2007.

Netflix, which is primarily known for its streaming services, has continued to offer DVD rental through DVD.com. Netflix will continue to rent DVDs via this channel up until September 29, 2023. The customer has until October 27th to return the discs.

Current Netflix members don’t have to do anything to cancel their DVD subscriptions, though they can download their data to access their entire movie rental history if they desire. Netflix DVD FAQ provides more details.

Netflix is trying to adjust to the rapidly changing streaming industry for some time now, following a 1,000,000 subscriber loss last year. A few of these efforts are introducing a tier that is based on advertising and reducing password sharing.

Netflix is now saying goodbye to one of the oldest parts of its business.