Netflix to rent, stream in U.K., Ireland

LONDON, Jan. 9 (UPI) -- The American company Netflix says its television and film subscription service is now available to customers in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Starting Monday, people throughout the U.K. and Ireland can begin a free, one-month trial by registering at Netflix.com. Members can select and instantly watch a wide array of TV programs and films through Internet-connected devices capable of streaming from Netflix, including Smart TVs, game consoles, Blu-ray players, tablets and mobile phones.

"We are starting 2012 in the best possible way: by giving consumers in the U.K. and Ireland an amazing entertainment experience," Reed Hastings, co-founder and chief executive officer of Netflix, said in a statement Monday. "Now, you can enjoy as many great films and TV programs as you want, when you want, where you want, for one low monthly price with no contracts or commitments."