Netflix to launch streaming service in Ireland next year

Internet film subscription service Netflix is to expand its service to Ireland early next year, offering streaming of TV and film content over the internet for a monthly fee.

The move is part of the California company's expansion into Ireland and the UK.

"Upon launch, Netflix members from the UK and Ireland will be able to instantly watch a wide array of TV shows and films right on their TVs via a range of consumer electronics devices capable of streaming from Netflix, as well as on PCs, Macs and mobile tablets and phones," a statement said.

"Further details about the service, including pricing, content and supported devices, will be announced closer to launch."

Netflix has been streaming to U.S. members since 2007, adding Canada in 2010 and 43 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean in September 2011.

It has an estimated 25 million users worldwide.

Internet-streaming is becoming an increasingly competitive market, with companies including Amazon’s Lovefilm and Apple’s iTunes looking to capitalise on demand for movie and TV downloads.