Netflix ‘Watch Instantly’ Available to Mac Users as a Beta

Netflix is moving forward faster than I expected and has opened the beta version of its ‘Watch Instantly’ service to all Mac users. The ‘Watch Instantly’ service allows Netflix members to view streamed TV shows and movies instantly on Intel-based Macs.

Before you pop over to Netflix to catch your favorite TV show, remember that this is a beta offering. Netflix has made it clear that there are still a few bugs in the service that can affect viewing quality. You’ll also need to install Silverlight, Microsoft’s answer to Adobe Flash, which Netflix chose as the viewing platform for its streamed content. The reason for this is open to speculation, but more than likely it’s because Silverlight includes built-in DRM (Digital Rights Management) in the form of Microsoft’s PlayReady DRM system.

If you try the ‘Watch Instantly’ beta, stop back and let us know what you think of it.