★ Featured Exhibit ★
Catalog record
439

Qwikster: Netflix’s DVD Spinoff That Never Shipped

We preserve disappointment.
It lasts longer.
Qwikster: Netflix’s DVD Spinoff That Never Shipped
439
Accession no.
439
Regret level
Netflix planned to put DVDs and streaming behind separate brands, sites, and bills—then canceled Qwikster before launch.
Collection color
Red

★ Curator’s Notes ★

In 2011 Netflix announced a split: streaming would stay with Netflix, while DVD-by-mail would move to a new service called Qwikster, with separate accounts and billing. Three weeks later, CEO Reed Hastings reversed course. DVDs and streaming would remain under one roof; Qwikster never launched. The plan managed to create extra friction before it created a website.

Sources: Los Angeles Times; Ars Technica.

It got a name, a press cycle, and an obituary. No website needed.