Disney to Shutter Digital Locker, Plans Feature-Filled Movies Anywhere

By David Tobia
November 21, 2012

After three years, Disney has decided to shut down Disney Movies Online, a streaming and digital locker service similar to UltraViolet.
The service allowed users to buy and rent movies from the Disney library, as well as stream movies they own on DVD or Blu-ray, but the service did not allow for offline viewing or for viewing on mobile or videogame systems.
“The digital environment is rapidly evolving and Disney Movies Online does not have the flexibility that many users today demand,” said a Disney spokesperson. “We made a business decision to close the service until we are able to provide the greatest value and experience to our customers.”
Disney is not abandoning the streaming movie business, and is expected to relaunch a Disney Movies Anywhere service with more features and more access to films, writes Variety.
While Disney Movies Online plans to officially shut down on December 31, the company will continue to embrace digital platforms.
“The opportunity to monetize owned IP is only growing because of new technology,” according to Disney CEO Bob Iger. “We will see growth in revenue and bottom line. It’s an exciting time for intellectual property owners.”

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