Nielsen Adds Netflix to Ratings Coverage

Nielsen has announced it will begin tracking viewing for Netflix next month, plugging a gap in its coverage created by the streaming video service's unwillingness to provide ratings information. Streaming on mobile devices will not for the time being be included.

Viewing for Amazon Instant Video will also be included, according to the Wall Street Journal, which says the ratings will make use of data from audio tracks, not requiring the consent of the services themselves. According to Nielsen SVP Brian Fuhrer, the launch will mean clients can 'look at their programs and understand: Is putting content on Netflix impacting the viewership on linear and traditional VOD?'

Stats indicate that around 34% of US households had a streaming video subscription in January, with the proportion rising to 40% by September.

Web site: www.nielsen.com .