Ghostbusters is the first Movie to be released on a USB flash drive, could this be the future way that movies will be distributed?
The PNY Ghostbusters USB flash drive features the full-length version of Ghostbusters, and it comes with 2GB of storage.
Storage Capabilities and Versatility
The flash drive is capable of storing 12 hours of video, 33 hours of music, and 1080 pictures. This makes it not only a medium for distributing movies but also a versatile storage device for various types of media. Imagine having your favorite movie, a playlist of your top songs, and a collection of memorable photos all in one compact device. This multifunctionality could appeal to consumers who value convenience and portability.
The Ghostbusters movie included is in DRM format, meaning you are able to download the movie to your PC or laptop, but the USB drive must be plugged in for the movie to play. This DRM protection ensures that the movie cannot be easily pirated, which is a significant concern for movie studios. However, it also means that users are somewhat restricted in how they can view the movie, which could be a drawback for some.
Cost and Branding Considerations
The PNY 2GB Ghostbusters Flash drive retails for £29.99, about $53, which is pretty expensive for a 2GB flash drive even with a movie included. When you consider that a standard 2GB flash drive can be purchased for a fraction of that price, the added cost for the movie seems steep. This high price point could deter potential buyers who might otherwise be interested in this new form of movie distribution.
The manufacturers also seem to have missed a trick with the branding as there is no reference to Ghostbusters on the flash drive. Branding is a crucial aspect of marketing, and having a Ghostbusters-themed design could have made the product more appealing to fans of the movie. Imagine a flash drive shaped like the iconic Ghostbusters logo or featuring images of the main characters; such design elements could significantly boost its attractiveness and marketability.
If the flash drives with movies included were priced right, I certainly would buy them rather than a DVD, but not if it is going to cost three times as much. The convenience of having a movie on a USB drive is undeniable, especially for those who travel frequently or have limited storage space. However, the price needs to be competitive with other forms of media distribution, such as DVDs or digital downloads, to make it a viable option for consumers.
The PNY 2GB USB Flash drive with Ghostbusters is available to buy online from Argos. This availability through a well-known retailer adds a layer of credibility and convenience for potential buyers. However, it remains to be seen whether this method of movie distribution will catch on with the general public.
In conclusion, while the idea of distributing movies on USB flash drives is innovative and offers several advantages, such as portability and multifunctionality, there are also significant drawbacks. The high cost and restrictive DRM format could limit its appeal. Additionally, better branding could make these products more attractive to consumers. If these issues are addressed, USB flash drives could become a popular way to distribute movies in the future. For now, it remains a niche product with potential for growth.
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