Redbox entering the streaming game again, sources say

Movie rental service Redbox tried its hand at movie streaming in partnership with Verizon back in 2013, but killed the project about 18 months later. Now sources say it's trying again with Redbox Digital, a closed beta for which may launch soon.

Responding for comment, a Redbox spokesperson said, "Redbox continually looks for ways to enhance our customer experience. For tens of millions of consumers, Redbox is their source for new release rentals without a subscription. As such, we regularly conduct tests of potential new offerings, that may or may not be brought to market, as part of our ongoing commitment to provide additional value."

This time around the service will be on-demand, as with iTunes and similar services, as opposed to the Netflix subscription model seen with its Redbox Instant venture. TV shows as well as movies can be rented for streaming or purchased for indefinite storage.

Leaked designs show Redbox Digital will be integrated logically into the current website with a Digital tab at the top next to the familiar Movies and Games tabs.

Word is the Play Pass loyalty program -- which allows customers to earn free rentals and more for sticking with the service -- will be supported by Redbox Digital.

The new venture could well be a last stand for Redbox, which has seen increasingly declining revenues in recent years.