"Evolving" describes the movie watching experience. Once, only a projector operated by a cinema worker enabled the public to watch a movie. Now, with just a few touches on a mobile device or remote control by anyone, a film can be viewed. Advances in technology give movie fans control of what to watch, where to watch and enables them to see an infinite number of movies in a given time. Here are principal ways technology is redefining movie watching.
We are watching films in various places, not just in theaters
Gradually, technology has truly put the "move" in movies. Now playing are films well beyond theater confines. Old school technology users play movies on-the-go with portable DVD and Blu-ray disc players. However, mobile devices, mainly tablets and smartphones, serve as the more modern, convenient way to play films. Tablets especially with large screens are ideal for watching. However, many fans prefer smartphones despite the smaller view screen.
All kinds of movie consumers – especially millennial age adults – have popularized mobile viewing. Besides in theaters and at home, viewers are enjoying movies on-the-go – on planes, trains, cars, buses, at gyms, parks and about anywhere else imaginable.
With the use of wireless technology (Wi-Fi), mobile users can download and see movies wherever. Mobile apps on Android and iOS enabled devices are the means of movie playing magic.
Technology increases watching
In the 1980s, VHS technology created a boom in the home entertainment of watching films. In the 1990s and early 2000s, DVD and Blu-ray disc led the way. Since then, online streaming has revolutionized home movie viewing, upping viewership to mounting levels.
A study by software company, Tremor Video, found that average adults watch 1.4 movies each month, but 5.7 movies at home using a streaming service. Streaming services, such as Netflix and Hulu, offer consumer value- providing thousands of titles in one place for the monthly cost of roughly $10, the same price of a matinee cinema ticket. Convenience of streaming at home lends itself to increased movie watching- no time taken away to travel to the theater and more time simply to play and watch.
Quality devices cause movie fans to skip high-end theaters
Catching flicks with stunning special effects is an optimal experience at deluxe cinemas. However, a growing number of movie fans prefer superior movie quality without stepping foot in an IMAX . Watching on high end mobile devices is satisfying movie fans who desire sharp high definition display and crisp sound. Latest ipad models offer color quality comparable to cinemas. Even with cinemaplex audiences still sizable, superior mobile devices are giving theaters a major run for the money.
Additionally, home entertainment systems are satisfying discerning movie consumers. Comprising top-tier audio and visual equipment, including HDTVs and surround sound speakers, home systems give desired movie theater experience. Many systems run into the thousands – however, the cost of system and to play movies is minimal compared to a double digit cinema ticket price per movie for a lifetime.
Technology continues to evolve with each new generation of devices and systems. As technology advances, movies watching will undoubtedly get better as a sensory experience and will continue to rise.
Article sources
Streaming Video Is Changing How People Watch Movies: Tremor. http://www.streamingmedia.com/Articles/News/Online-Video-News/Streaming-Video-Is-Changing-How-People-Watch-Movies-Tremor-108720.aspx
MPAA.org Site. http://www.mpaa.org/technology-and-innovation