Blinkbox adds UltraViolet support

Tesco-owned digital store Blinkbox has added support for the UltraViolet digital movie and TV locker service, letting customers access digital versions of physical disks they have bought in-store.

Announcing the move, Blinkbox said that customers can now instantly stream or download select DVDs and Blu-rays, marked with the UltraViolet logo, that they have bought as physical discs on a wide variety of devices.

Compatible titles can be automatically added to a customer’s UltraViolet library and accessed via Blinkbox once they have registered and entered the redemption code that comes with the disc.

“This is about helping movie and TV fans on their journey from physical to digital entertainment while also offering flexibility in how movies and TV shows can be easily shared with family,” said Tesco category director for entertainment, Ian Ditcham.

Mark Teitell, general manager of UltraViolet added: “Tesco and Blinkbox have been a notable part of the group of companies that designed and launched UltraViolet. Now, their pioneering roll-out of UltraViolet in the UK is a major step forward in the enjoyment and value that consumers here will get from collecting movies and TV shows.”

At launch, titles on sale in Tesco and available to stream or download with UltraViolet include The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Bad Neighbours, Rio 2 and 300 Rise of An Empire.

UltraViolet is backed by a consortium of over 70 companies including major studios such as Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, NBCUniversal and 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment.

It was established to create a simple way for consumers to get the most enjoyment from collecting movies and TV shows, whether they buy physical discs or digital titles.

The news follows recent reports that Tesco has put Blinkbox up for sale and is said to be reviewing all options, including closing the business if a buyer can’t be found.