Part of Facebook’s new changes and fresh look will involve additional profile sections built from a user’s history at third-party businesses. Netflix had hoped to be part of this, and for most of the world, it will be. But beleaguered Netflix can’t find complete success. That feature won’t come to the United States any time soon.The Netflix-Facebook platform will bring up a list of what your friends have watched on Netflix. (Remember that Netflix represents only the video stream end of that business now, too.) The tool will help customize Facebook profiles and propel users to check out Netflix’s stream after their friends inspire them.
In 44 out of the 45 countries where Facebook operates, Netflix will make this service available. But in America, Neftlix is afraid of violating a 1988 law that prohibits video rental companies from disclosing what their customers watch. The law was passed after a Supreme Court nominee’s video rental history was released during his hearings. He didn’t get the job.
Legislators have introduced a bill that would clarify the old legislation, allowing users to opt in to social-networking. The new bill could come under debate at the same time as other crucial pieces of legislation affecting U.S. businesses, like, you know, the jobs bill and all that.
Read more at GigaOm.
