MoviePass

Blockbuster Movie Pass no Netflix killer

commentary Talk about a serious letdown.

Anticipation was high that Dish Network would unveil a streaming video service through Blockbuster that would compete--and even possibly undercut--Netflix, which isn't exactly feeling the love right now. Instead, Dish announces a bundle of streaming videos; DVDs and games by mail; and access to premium movie channels--but only to Dish customers.

So those of you looking to leave Netflix in righteous anger over the way the company has treated you in the recent months might want to pause for a moment, because Blockbuster Movie Pass is no viable alternative. In hindsight, we probably … Read more

The 404 852: Where it's always bummy in Philadelphia (podcast)

It's our last show before the three-day weekend, so we're wrapping up with a review of the movie box office, and some new services that'll help with the cost of tickets. We're also exploring the idea of 4D movie theaters, and quizzing Wilson on another episode of Tang that Tune. Also, be sure to tune into the second half of the show for the debut of Jeff's new recurring segment, Squishy Moments with Jeff Bakalar!

The 404 Digest for Episode 852

MoviePass: See unlimited movies in the theater for $50 a month. 4D movies: what the heckbeans is that? Do something cat! 2/5 stars for Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

Episode 852 Subscribe in iTunes (audio) | Subscribe in iTunes (video) | Subscribe in RSS Audio | Subscribe in RSS Video… Read more

Buzz Out Loud 1499: Finally, Venn diagrams come to social networking! (Podcast)

On today's show, we're kind of down on Microsoft Office 365 and poor MySpace's future, but we feel a tiny bit positive about the overlapping circles of nerdiness that could be possible with Google's new Plus social networking beta. Also, find out what you love on Google, if you can, and see all the movies you want for $50 a month. Plus: our new favorite word! Philanthrodorks!

Subscribe:  iTunes (MP3) |  iTunes (320x180) |  iTunes (640x360) |  RSS (MP3) |  RSS (320x180) |  RSS (640x360)… Read more

This Day in Tech: Kids can play violent video games; Supreme Court steps in to set rules on warrantless GPS tracking

Too busy to keep up with the tech news? Here are some of the more interesting stories from CNET for Monday, June 27.

Facebook valuation seen at $70 billion Investment group GSV Capital has picked up a significant number of shares in Facebook, but its valuation of the social-networking site has garnered more buzz. More

Google curbs Web map exposing phone locales Company limits access to geolocation database linking Wi-Fi devices with physical locations after a CNET article highlighted potential privacy concerns. More

Supreme Court strikes violent game law The U.S. high court invalidates a California law restricting the … Read more

Start-up tinkers with all-you-can-eat in-theater movies

A start-up service called MoviePass is offering film fans unlimited movie viewing in theaters for a fee of $50 a month.

Wired.com reports that Moviepass will soon enable users to use a smartphone to search for a film, check show times, and provide proof of purchase with ticket takers. The service was announced Monday and is set to launch in a test version in the San Francisco Bay area in time for the July 4th weekend.

This would appear to be a convenience play. Pay a monthly fee in advance, and MoviePass will remove much of the ticket-buying hassle. … Read more