Netflix VR app
Oculus VR Chief Executive Iribe unveils Netflix’s app for the Samsung Gear VR headset, which will ship in November. The app will also be available on Oculus Rift following its commercial launch in early 2016. The app consists of Netflix Living Room, a feature which enables users to watch movies and TV shows in 3D. The complete Netflix catalog will be accessible when the app is available on the Oculus store.
Documentary partnership
Netflix announces they will partner with DiCaprio’s Appian Way production company for a series of documentaries. Netflix:
We will seek to develop and acquire documentaries and docuseries with partial focus on environmental and conservation themes.
Pee-wee’s Big Holiday announcement
Reubens will star in Pee-wee’s Big Holiday, the third movie of the series, which will be directed by John Lee and produced by Judd Apatow for Netflix. The plot involves Pee-wee meeting a mysterious stranger who inspires him to take his first-ever holiday. Netflix CCO Ted Sarandos:
We didn’t hesitate for a moment knowing that Pee-wee’s Big Holiday was such a passion project for Paul and Judd and we are delighted by the opportunity to introduce such a beloved character to a new generation. We are thrilled to bring our viewers around the world the wonder of Pee-wee Herman.
Reubens:
Judd and I dreamt up this movie four years ago. The world was much different back then— Netflix was waiting by the mailbox for red envelopes to arrive. I’ve changed all that. The future is here. Get used to it. Bowtie is the new black.
Postpones comedy special
Netflix postpones the airing of Cosby’s new stand-up show, Bill Cosby 77 , due to sexual allegations that have surfaced against the comedian.
At this time we are postponing the launch of the new stand-up comedy special Bill Cosby 77.
Profit doubles
The company reports that its profits doubled due to an increase in both US and international subscribers. The recent price increase of $1 per month for US subscribers did not deter new users from signing up. The company added 570,000 U.S. customers in the second fiscal quarter, which ended June 30th, surpassing 50 million worldwide subscribers for the first time in the company’s history. It added 1.12 million customers in international markets.
Emmy nominations
Orange is The New Black is nominated for Outstanding Comedy Series and House of Cards is nominated for Outstanding Drama series. Kevin Spacey and Robin Wright are nominated for lead actor and actress for their work on House of Cards. Taylor Schilling is nominated in the lead comedy actress category for Orange is the New Black. Additionally, Ricky Gervais is nominated in the lead comedy actor category for Derek.