Netflix Targeting Android Next

Netflix is looking to hire an Android video playback expert.

While nothing is set in stone or officially confirmed, a job posting on Netflix's site indicates that the video streaming service is looking for a "great engineer" to help with Android applications. Recently Netflix launched its service on the new iPad, and plans to do the same with Apple's iPhone and iPod Touch. A version of the video streaming service also also scheduled to hit the Nintendo Wii sometime this Spring.

This latest job position should be good news for consumers who own smartphones based on Google's mobile OS. Currently the only real video streaming service available on the Android Market is Jetflicks, costing an initial $2 for the "gateway" application and a $10 monthly fee for the content. While the quality is favorable, the subscription-based service only offers TV shows including just-aired episodes and those currently in syndication. Unfortunately, Netflix on an Android device could shut down Jetflicks for good.

"Netflix is looking for a great engineer to help us build Instant Streaming client implementations on Android devices," the job listing states. The position requires a "deep understanding of" and hands-on experience with media playback on the Android platform. Other requirements include 10+ years of relevant software development experience, and expert knowledge in OO design and implementation using C++.

With the iPhone and iPod Touch versions under its belt, Netflix could very well take what it learned from developing the streaming application for Apple's handhelds and apply the experience to an Android app rather quickly. Stay tuned--more info should appear in the coming weeks.