SlashGear » movie streaming

Vudu online movie service acquired by Wal-Mart

Paul Fang — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 04:45:06 +0000

The word’s out today from the NY Times that that Wal-Mart is set to acquire Vudu, the online movie streaming service in an acquisition set to be worth approximately $100 million. Additional information and the full press release can be found after the break.

Vudu had been known recently for its Vudu Box and Vudu XL service, used to distribute movies over the web via a hybrid peer-to-peer technology, in which they were the first to stream video at 1080p high-def. Wal-Mart is evidently betting that the majority of consumers will gradually move toward the online distribution of media content, leaving DVDs and physical media behind in the dust.

Because DVD sales have declined in recent years, retailers and studios have looked to digital distribution to slide back in line with profits. Wal-Mart, who happens to be the largest DVD retailer in the country, may seem like it has shot itself in the foot with this move. But with digital distribution being an increasingly more economical medium, like the iPad partnership between the NY Times and Apple, this move may very well determine and reestablish their business model for the future.

Walmart Announces Acquisition of Digital Entertainment Provider, VUDU

Company takes next step to enhance home entertainment and information delivery options for consumers

BENTONVILLE, Ark., Feb. 22, 2010 — Walmart announced today a definitive agreement to acquire VUDU, Inc., a leading provider of digital technologies and services that enable the delivery of entertainment content directly to broadband high-definition TVs and Blu-ray players. The deal is expected to close within the next few weeks.

VUDU is a revolutionary service, built into a growing number of broadband-ready TVs and Blu-ray players, that delivers instant access to thousands of movies and TV shows directly through the television. Customers with broadband Internet access and an Internet-ready TV or Blu-ray player can rent or purchase movies, typically in high-definition, without needing a connected computer or cable/satellite service. New movies and features will be added continually, enabling customers to enjoy a product that continues to become more robust long after they have left the store.

“The real winner here is the customer,” said Eduardo Castro-Wright, vice chairman for Walmart. “Combining VUDU’s unique digital technology and service with Walmart’s retail expertise and scale will provide customers with unprecedented access to home entertainment options as they migrate to a digital environment.”

VUDU has licensing agreements with almost every major movie studio and dozens of independent and international distributors to offer approximately 16,000 movies, including the largest 1080p library of video on-demand movies available anywhere. Via their broadband Internet connection, users have the ability to rent or buy titles and begin viewing them instantly.

VUDU will continue developing entertainment and information delivery solutions such as VUDU Apps, a platform that delivers hundreds of streaming Internet applications and services to TVs and Blu-ray players with built-in Internet connectivity. VUDU has partnered with some of the leading names in Internet and media entertainment to offer applications on its platform including Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, The New York Times and The Associated Press.

“We are excited about the opportunity to take our company’s vision to the next level,” said Edward Lichty, VUDU executive vice president. “VUDU’s services and Apps platform will give Walmart a powerful new vehicle to offer customers the content they want in a way that expands the frontier of quality, value and convenience.”

VUDU, based in Santa Clara, Calif., will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Walmart. The company is not disclosing financial terms of the agreement as the acquisition is not material to its first quarter earnings for fiscal year 2011.

[via New York Times]

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Blu-ray: “The Best is the Enemy of the Good”

Michael Gartenberg — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:17:22 +0000

It’s sometimes a challenge to understand how arguably better technologies often lose out to things that are inferior. We’ve seen it time and time again. The problem is that consumers are often not interested in the “best” technology but are more than satisfied with that which is “good enough”. These days, a good example would be to look at Blu-Ray and how it’s being adopted by consumers.

We’re now well past the point where HD-DVD was vanquished by Blu-Ray, and this year at CES we’re finally seeing lower cost devices and content that’s flowing on a regular basis. Yet, in the long run it may well be Blu-Ray has won a Pyrrhic victory and it may well turn out once again that the best is the enemy of the good. I’m not suggesting Blu-Ray has failed or will fail, but it’s the type of technology that faces exactly this type of challenge from the “good enough”

Let’s go back in time for a bit. At the end of the 2001, there was a major effort to drive consumers beyond the ubiquitous compact disk and drive them to one of two new formats, SACD and DVD Audio. Both were optical disk formats designed to replace the existing CD standard and, at the same time, drive replacement cycles for both hardware and software. In the end, neither format prevailed and despite strong efforts from both sides, consumers remained with the CD as a standard while at the same time embracing the MP3 format for music (along with the iPod and other MP3 players), a format of lesser quality than the CD.

So how does a technology shift and cross the threshold for adoption? The ability to drive consumers to new technology is a difficult task requiring several key things to happen at the same time.

First, there requires broad unified hardware support. In the case of Blu-Ray this didn’t happen soon enough. Vendors were split with no unified standard, and instead created a format war that caused confusion among consumers. This initially held back adoption for consumers who waited for the market to sort itself out.

Second, deep content support is required. Even as Blu-Ray content now flows in some numbers at last, there’s far more new content available on DVD than on Blu-Ray, which also sells at higher price points for the same titles.

Finally, there needs to be a clear and visible consumer value proposition. CDs and DVDs both offered a clear value proposition to consumers. There was a visible difference in the experience that was easily grasped. Both were marked by a shift from analog tape format to disk, which was more reliable and offered novel features such as random access to content. Both offered clear quality differences than what came before and the quality was well above the threshold for just noticeable differences. Consumers still do not see the same value proposition with Blu-Ray, especially when cheap, up-scaling DVD players make their existing content look “good enough”.

Even as consumers still embrace their DVDs, the growth and penetration of broadband is facilitating content to be delivered directly to consumers without the need for any optical disk. Combined with portability and the ability to move content from room to room as well as onto portable devices, the market for downloaded video content continues to grow each day and more of that content is in Hi-Def format.

With pressure coming from DVD on one side and the growth in connected TVs and streaming content, consumers may opt once again for the “good enough” experience and never make the mass market leap to high definition optical disks.

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Netgear Digital Entertainer Express EVA9100 1080p media streamer debuts

Chris Davies — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 17:36:19 +0000

Netgear have outed its latest HD-capable digital media streamer, the Netgear Digital Entertainer Express EVA9100, at CES 2010 this morning. The EVA9100 can stream digital content from your networked computers, NAS (such as Netgear’s own Stora) or online in up to 1080p High Definition, connecting to your HDTV via HDMI with automatic upscaling. Standard network connectivity is via 10/100 ethernet, though Netgear will happily sell you a WiFi a/g/n dongle that plugs into one of the EVA9100’s two USB 2.0 ports.

Other connectivity includes composite and component video, an S/PDIF digital audio output, stereo RCA audio, USB 2.0 mass storage port, S-Video, SCART and RGB. As well as streaming content you can plug in an external hard-drive or PMP via USB.

Full details on compatible file formats and codecs here; in the box Netgear include an IR remote, ethernet cable, composite connectors but no HDMI cable, which seems a little cheap of them. The Netgear Digital Entertainer Express EVA9100 is shipping now, priced at $249.

Press Release:

NETGEAR Expands Family of Award-Winning Digital Media Players with Introduction of Digital Entertainer Express

Advanced Digital Media Player Optimized for full 1080p Playback of Personal Media Collections and Internet Content; Powerful Media Scanning and Search Feature Enables Easy Access to Digital, Internet and RSS Videos, Photos and MP3s on HDTVs

LAS VEGAS – January 6, 2010 – NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR), a worldwide provider of technologically innovative, branded networking solutions, today announced the worldwide launch of the Digital Entertainer Express (EVA9100), a powerful and flexible digital media player that enables consumers to easily enjoy and seamlessly stream personal digital media collections and Internet content over home networks to high-definition televisions. Providing all of the playback performance and video reliability of the Digital Entertainer Elite (EVA9150), the Digital Entertainer Express is an ideal solution for the serious media enthusiast. It incorporates the latest video and audio technologies to deliver an unparalleled home theater entertainment experience.

The Digital Entertainer Express adds to the NETGEAR family of Internet-connected set-top boxes, which also includes the Digital Entertainer Elite (EVA9150) and Digital Entertainer Live (EVA2000). NETGEAR will highlight its family of Digital Entertainers along with its home media storage server, Stora, at two press events today in conjunction with the opening of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.”See today’s press release, “NETGEAR Introduces New Solutions at Consumer Electronics Show To Enable Any Media on Any Screen, Anywhere at Anytime” at http://www.netgear.com/About/PressReleases/en-US/2010/20100105a.aspx.

“Consumers’ digital media collections are growing every year. And, more and more, they have digital content stored on their computers, USB hard drives, network storage devices, iPods®, digital cameras, etc.,” said Lionel Paris, product line manager for NETGEAR entertainment products. “The Digital Entertainer Express scans all the content connected to the player either directly via USB port or over the home network so that it is easily accessible for immediate playback – all with the latest video and audio decoding. When combined with NETGEAR Storaand one of our routers, the Digital Entertainer Express completes the ultimate connected home entertainment solution for our customers.”

The Digital Entertainer Express’ unique technology enables consumers to seamlessly stream M2TS via pre-buffering and play Blu-ray™ quality digital video up to 1080p.They can also play MP3, multichannel WAV and FLAC files and high-resolution digital photos from PCs, Macs® or Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices, such as NETGEAR Stora. Consumers can also enjoy Internet content, such as Internet radio (over 250 stations), Flickr™, RSS feeds and videos from popular websites. Furthermore, with an included free trial and subsequent special discount of PlayOn™ software, consumers can view hit TV shows and movies on their TVs from a wide variety of Internet sources, such as Hulu™, Netflix®, Amazon Video On Demand, BBC iPlayer and CBS™. Additionally, the Digital Entertainer Express supports an extensive selection of digital media file formats and codecs. For a full list, visit http://www.netgear.com/Products/Entertainment/DigitalMediaPlayers/EVA9100.aspx.

The Digital Entertainer Express incorporates two USB ports for instant access to content on USB flash drives, digital cameras, iPods or other USB storage devices. It can also search and index files directly on the device, enabling users to navigate content across multiple networked PCs and devices at the same time. In fact, the Digital Entertainer Express automatically finds all digital media files on the home network and organizes them into an easily accessible library.

As one of the most flexible digital media players on the market, the Digital Entertainer Express can easily be connected to the Internet and home network in a variety of ways. Its integrated network port makes an Ethernet wired connection extremely simple. However, if consumers do not have an Ethernet connection available near their TV, they can use the optional Wireless USB Adapter (EVAW111) that connects the Digital Entertainer Express to the Internet and the home network via Wi-Fi®. Alternatively, they can also use existing electrical power outlets and a powerline deviceto connect the Digital Entertainer Express to the Internet and the home network, such as the NETGEAR Home Theater Internet Connection Kit (XAVB1004),or either of the new powerline devices announced by NETGEARat CES today, including the new Powerline 200 AV Adapter Kit (XAVB2001) and Powerline 200 AV+ Adapter Kit (XAVB2501) with a filtered “pass-through” power socket (http://www.netgear.com/Products/PowerlineNetworking/PowerlineEthernetAdapters.aspx).

Like many NETGEAR consumer devices, the Digital Entertainer Express features a simple “push button” way to connect to wireless routers called Push ‘N’ Connect. When it is used with the Wireless USB Adapter, consumers can easily and securely connect the Digital Entertainer Express to wireless networks without having to remember or input a password. The NETGEAR Digital Entertainer Express also includes environmentally friendly features, such as an energy-efficient power supply and automatic power-saving mode, which consume as little as .01 watts.

With two or more NETGEAR Digital Entertainer Express units, the “Follow Me” feature lets consumers pause a video in one room and resume it in another.

“Exceptional growth in the availability of high quality, long tail content online isdriving the growth for newmedia players and connected set-top boxes,” said Jayant Dasari, broadband and television infrastructure and services research analyst at Parks Associates. “However, since the way consumers like to acquire and enjoy their media collections varies from consumer to consumer, it’s important for vendors to offer new options that bring online content directlyto HDTVs. By increasing its family of Internet-connected set-top boxes to include a feature-rich yet affordable solution, NETGEAR is poised to increase its market share in the segment and become a primary player in the Internet-connected set-top box market.”

Backed by full 24/7 technical support, the NETGEAR Digital Entertainer Express (EVA9100) is now available worldwide through leading retailers, e-commerce sites and value-added resellers. The Digital Entertainer Express (EVA9100) has an MSRP in the U.S. of $229, a lower entry price than its sister product, the Digital Entertainer Elite (EVA9150), to reflect its streamlined capabilities and features.Photos and other product information can be found at http://www.netgear.com/Products/Entertainment/DigitalMediaPlayers/EVA9100.aspx.

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Boxee Box official: debut on December7th

Chris Davies — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:53:01 +0000

Boxee has long been the darling of the homebrew DVR crowd, turning the Apple TV into a far more capable – and less iTunes-centric – media system and brightening DIY HTPCs no end. Now the company has announced its plans for an off-the-shelf Boxee Box, which will deliver the same sort of experience but without the need to build it youself.

Boxee won’t yet reveal their hardware partner, but they do expect the upcoming set-top box to be merely the first of “several living room devices” to debut with the platform in 2010. Hardware specifications and some device mock-ups won’t be unveiled until December 7th, but we’re guessing it’ll be based around some sort of SoC with HD video playback, streaming support and both wired and wireless connectivity.

The possibility of a standalone Boxee device came up back in January, when the company asked for suggestions and feedback on what sort of hardware support users would want to see. At the time they seemed to suggest that roughly $199 would get full Boxee support, while $299 would add in extra hardware for things like Blu ray playback. However as yet pricing for the upcoming device is yet to be confirmed.

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Roku HD-XR and Roku SD join Netflix-streaming lineup

Chris Davies — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:18:33 +0000

Roku have outed a pair of new Netflix media streamers that go on sale alongside their existing Roku HD. The Roku HD-XR keeps the same 720p HD playback, optical audio output and HDMI connection as the original model, but upgrades the WiFi to b/g/n. Meanwhile there’s a new entry-level, standard definition model, the Roku SD, which offers basic WiFi and analog connectivity.

The Roku HD-XR does just the same as the original set-top box, but now offers faster WiFi (the HD only has WiFi b/g support). The company have also added a USB 2.0 port to the back, but right now there’s no use for it; Roku are saving it for some unknown future purpose.

Meanwhile the Roku SD promises only DVD quality video, with integrated WiFi b/g and composite audio/video connections (and wired ethernet) rather than HDMI and optical audio. All three models are pretty much identical aside from the rear panels, and come with the same basic remote control; the Roku SD comes in at $79.99, the Roku HD remains at $99.99, and the Roku HD-XR is $129.99. You’ll obviously need a monthly Netflix subscription as well.

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Netflix movie streaming hits PS3 in November

Chris Davies — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:14:57 +0000

Remember all the furore back in August, when Microsoft announced they’d locked up Netflix movie streaming for the Xbox 360 and basically told us it was an “exclusive” partnership? Well, that exclusivity seems to have been short-lived; Sony have announced that from November Netflix subscribers will be able to stream content on their PS3.

The application will be provided on a special Blu-ray disc, that’s free of charge to US Netflix subscribers. Once slotted into the PS3 – and presuming the console has an ethernet or WiFi connection – they’ll be able to access the media catalog; adding films and TV shows to the Instant Queue can be done either on a PC in the usual way, or directly via the PS3’s menus.

Netflix costs $8.99 and there’s no extra charge for either the Blu-ray disc or the PS3 streaming. Right now there’s no specific date for the PS3 Netflix disc to arrive, but if you want to know more you can always sign-up for information here. Sony’s wording in the PR below seems to suggest that the Blu-ray disc is a workaround until a full XMB update arrives.

Press Release:

COMING SOON: NETFLIX MEMBERS CAN INSTANTLY WATCH MOVIES AND TV EPISODES STREAMED TO TVs VIA THE PLAYSTATION®3 COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

With Movies Streamed Instantly from Netflix, Blu-ray/DVD Playback and Downloadable Videos via the PlayStation®Network, the PlayStation 3 System Offers The Industry’s Most Comprehensive Options for Watching Movies and TV Shows
FOSTER CITY and LOS GATOS, Calif., October 26, 2009 – Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) and Netflix, Inc. [Nasdaq: NFLX] today announced that they are joining forces to make thousands of movies and TV episodes from Netflix available to be streamed instantly to TVs via the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system. Netflix expects to begin streaming via the PS3 system next month at no additional cost to Netflix members in the United States who have a PS3 system.
Today’s announcement pairs two of the most popular and fastest growing home entertainment brands in the U.S. The PS3 system’s installed base has reached close to 9 million units in the United States, and Netflix recently reported 11.1 million U.S. subscribers as of September 30.
The partnership further solidifies the PS3 system as the most complete home entertainment hub on the market today, enabling consumers to play high-definition games, watch Blu-ray movies, listen to music, view photos, browse the Internet, and download content from PlayStation®Network − from exclusive games to blockbuster movies and popular TV shows. PS3 system owners will soon enjoy an unparalleled experience watching their favorite movies and TV shows streamed instantly from Netflix, downloading from the PlayStation Network or watching Blu-ray/DVD media. The Netflix offering expands on the entertainment experience delivered to PS3 system owners via PlayStation Network.
For only $8.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed to their TVs and computers via Netflix ready devices such as the PS3 system and can receive unlimited DVDs delivered quickly to their homes.
“The PlayStation 3 system has always been about more than just gaming, and it will soon be the only platform in the industry to offer consumers such a variety of convenient options for enjoying movies and TV shows,” said Jack Tretton, president and CEO, SCEA. “Whether you want to watch content on Blu-ray disc and DVD, download it from the PlayStation Network’s video delivery service, or stream videos instantly from Netflix, the PS3 system is the only solution that offers it all.”
“As instantly watching movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix becomes an increasingly popular way to enjoy the Netflix service, our goal is to rapidly expand the devices that stream to our members,” said Netflix CEO and co-founder Reed Hastings. “As a leading game console and Blu-ray disc player, bringing Netflix to the PS3 system is a real win for both Netflix members and PS3 system owners.”
Initially, watching movies instantly streamed from Netflix via the PS3 system will be enabled by a free, instant streaming Blu-ray disc that is being made available to all Netflix members. The free instant streaming disc leverages Blu-ray’s BD-Live™ technology to access the Internet and activate the Netflix user interface on the PS3 system, which must be online via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Netflix members simply slide the disc into their PS3 systems to reveal movies and TV episodes that can be watched instantly. These titles are conveniently organized into a variety of categories based on members’ personal preferences, popular genres, new arrivals and members’ individual instant Queues. Members can use the Netflix Web site or navigate directly on their PS3 systems to add movies and TV shows to their Queues. With the PS3 system’s Wireless Controller, members can choose a movie to watch from their instant Queues or just play directly from any of the lists. They also have the ability to read synopses and rate movies. In addition, they have the option of fast-forwarding and rewinding the video stream via the Wireless Controller.
Netflix members and PS3 system owners can now reserve a free instant streaming disc for PS3 systems by going to www.netflix.com/ps3. Upon availability, the instant streaming disc will be delivered for free by first-class mail, generally one business day after members request it.
About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® and PS one® game consoles, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, the ground-breaking PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system and its digital services which include the PlayStation®Network and the PlayStation®Store.
Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one® game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, and the PlayStation 3 and PSP systems for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
About Netflix, Inc.
Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX) is the world’s largest online movie rental service, with more than more than 11 million subscribers. For only $8.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed to their TVs and computers and can receive unlimited DVDs delivered quickly to their homes. There are never any due dates or late fees. Netflix members can exchange DVDs as often as they want using a postage-paid return envelope. Members can choose from a vast selection of DVD titles and a growing library of movies and TV episodes that can be watched instantly. Netflix is partnering with leaders in consumer electronics to bring to market a range of devices that can instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix directly to members’ TVs. These devices currently include Blu-ray disc players and new Internet TVs from LG Electronics; Blu-ray disc players from Samsung and Best Buy’s Insignia brand; the Roku digital video player; Microsoft’s Xbox 360 game console; TiVo digital video recorders; and, soon, the PS3 system and Internet TVs from Sony and VIZIO.

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Envive unveils 4TB Green TheaterStation

Shane McGlaun — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:37:48 +0000

Streaming media around a home or office is a great way to share entertainment that can be controlled and stored on one central server. A company called Envive offers several streaming content servers called TheaterStation along with clients that allow music and video to be streamed to more than one location.

The company has announced a new green TheaterStation server with 4TB of storage built-in. the server uses the Western Digital line of green hard drives to save on power consumption. The TheaterStation TS2500 claims to be the world’s most environmentally friendly media server. The company also promises to offer a 4TB external back up solution by Q4.

Envive has also announced a new software update for its line of TheaterStation Clients that offers major improvements like support for clients, improved Wi-Fi connectivity, and an enhance OSD for music control and improved support for HDTVs when connected via HDMI.

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Netgear EVA2000 set-top streamer supports Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, more

Chris Davies — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:48:44 +0000

Netgear have announced their latest networked media box, the EVA2000 Digital Entertainer Live, which allows for both locally-streamed and IPTV content to be shown on your big-screen TV. The EVA2000 can play YouTube videos, pay-per-view movies, Hulu, VuNow and Netflix content, among other things, together with audio, video and images from USB external storage.

Connectivity includes 10/100 ethernet, AV composite output, HDMI, two USB 2.0 ports and a power connector, and Netgear will happily sell you a WiFi dongle or PowerLine adapter should your router be too far away from your HDTV. There’s also a remote control from which you can do content searches.

The Netgear EVA2000 Digital Entertainer Live is available in the US now, priced at $149.99. Meanwhile the USB WiFi adapter is $39.99. Broader availability is planned over the coming months.

Press Release:

NETGEAR Introduces Digital Entertainer Live, Compact All-in-One Set-top Box for Playing Home Media and Streaming Internet Video on HDTVs

Plays Movies, Videos, Music and Photos from USB Drives, Computers and Network Attached Storage; Accesses YouTube, Roxio CinemaNow On-demand Movies, Internet Videos, Hulu, Netflix and More

SAN JOSE, Calif. – September 8, 2009 – NETGEAR, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR), a worldwide provider of technologically innovative, branded networking solutions, today launched the newest Internet-connected set-top box in its popular “Digital Entertainer” product family. The new Digital Entertainer Live (EVA2000) is an easy-to-use and affordable Internet set-top box that enables viewers to play their digital media collections, YouTube videos and a wide range of other Internet content on big-screen TVs. Rather than having to watch downloaded movies and online videos on small computer screens, families can now enjoy media collections stored on USB storage devices, computers and network storage directly on their HDTVs, from the comfort of their couch.

In addition to personal media collections and YouTube, consumers can now easily browse, download and play newly released pay-per-view movies from Roxio CinemaNow. They can also view videos on their TV from a wide variety of Internet sources, such as Hulu, Netflix and CBS, through free software trials and optional subscriptions. The Digital Entertainer Live incorporates all of these functions into a single compact player, an advantage for cluttered home entertainment cabinets.

“People are amassing a huge amount of their own downloaded and personal digital music, photos, and videos, as well as consuming more and more Internet video,” said Phillip Pyo, NETGEAR’s director of product marketing for connected home entertainment products. “According to comScore’s Video Metrix service, between January 2007 and July 2009, there was a 331 percent jump in the number of minutes of video watched per average viewer per month. It went from 2 hours, 31 minutes to 8 hours, 20 minutes.”

He added, “The vast majority of people are still watching these videos on small computer screens, so it’s logical to assume that the amount of time spent will continue to increase as devices such as the Digital Entertainer Live make it even easier to watch online video on HDTVs. NETGEAR is thrilled to offer an affordable, content-rich, and easy-to-set-up and -use solution that bridges this gap and enables people to fully enjoy their home media collections and online video from popular Internet sites on the best screen in their home – their big-screen TVs.”

The Digital Entertainer Live – Product Features
The Digital Entertainer Live is a compact, “plug in and go” home media player with a simple remote control that enables consumers to easily access their digital movies, videos, music and photos directly from their USB storage devices and watch them on their TV. Users need only plug a USB hard drive containing digital media content into one of two USB 2.0 ports on the Digital Entertainer Live and connect the Digital Entertainer Live to their HDTV using an HDMI or composite cable. The Digital Entertainer Live also features regular RCA jacks for connecting to older analog TVs.

Furthermore, with its integrated network port, the Digital Entertainer Live easily makes an Ethernet wired connection to the Internet and the home network, enabling access to digital media content stored on computers and network storage devices in the home network, as well as Internet content over the web. If consumers do not have an Ethernet connection available near their TV, they can use the optional Digital Entertainer Live Wireless USB Adapter (EVAW111) that connects the Digital Entertainer Live to the Internet and the home network via Wi-Fi. Alternatively, they can use existing electrical power outlets and a powerline device, such as NETGEAR’s Home Theater Internet Connection Kit (XAVB1004), to connect the Digital Entertainer Live to the Internet and the home network.

By connecting the Digital Entertainer Live to a broadband Internet connection, consumers enjoy the full YouTube experience – searching, browsing and watching millions of videos with access to subscriptions, playlists, country selections, categories and channels – all without the need for a computer. Instead of huddling around a small computer screen to watch the latest funny video, consumers can now show it on their TV for everyone to enjoy.

To widen the search for Internet video content, the Digital Entertainer Live is shipped with a built-in Internet video search engine that can locate videos on the entire worldwide web. The Digital Entertainer Live performs dynamic keyword searches of more than a hundred thousand websites for Internet videos without needing a computer. The search feature yields dynamic results with each letter inputted and automatically categorizes popular subjects into easy-to-find folders.

The Digital Entertainer Live also supports pay-per-view movies on-demand from Roxio CinemaNow, where users can buy or rent a range of newly released movies as soon as they are available on DVD and watch them in minutes. Consumers no longer have to wait for the mail or drive to the nearest rental store. They simply browse all the movies on their TV and download them to a USB storage device using their Digital Entertainer Live and Roxio CinemaNow account.

Additionally, the Digital Entertainer Live includes a free trial of VuNow, which provides access to hundreds of other Internet videos, live Internet TV and live Internet radio streamed from popular sites from around the world, such as Bloomberg, CNN Video, C-SPAN, ESPN, Germany’s 2DF, Al Jazeera, BBC Worldwide, China’s CCTV, Germany’s DWTV, Euronews, EuroSport, France 24, France’s Orange Sport, Germany’s RTL, and Sky News. The Digital Entertainer Live also comes with a free trial of PlayOn software. By running this optional software on a computer also connected to the Internet and home network, users enjoy hit TV shows and movies from popular Internet video services such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, BBC iPlayer, CBS, NFL, the Australian Broadcasting Corp. and more, wherever the service is normally available via the Internet.

“There is an ever-increasing amount of digital media – TV episodes, movies, photos and music – being stored on computers and other devices throughout the home, as well as on the Internet,” said Jayant Dasari, broadband and television infrastructure and services research analyst at Parks Associates. “In fact, some people have even maxed out their personal computers with media, requiring external storage, such as one that connects via USB. Due to this increase in distributed digital media content, consumers are looking for ways to enjoy their digital media and online videos in one place. Internet-connected set-top boxes are one solution that enable the entire family to benefit from viewing the broadest spectrum of digital content on their HDTVs from the comfort of their living rooms.”

Pricing and Availability
Backed by a one-year warranty and 24/7 technical support, the NETGEAR Digital Entertainer Live (EVA2000) is available in the U.S. through leading retailers, e-commerce sites and value-added resellers at an MSRP of $149.99. The Digital Entertainer Live Wireless USB Adapter (EVAW111) has an MSRP of $39.99. Worldwide availability of the Digital Entertainer Live is planned for the coming months.

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Xbox 360 gets exclusive Netflix streaming: no other console allowed

Chris Davies — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:26:59 +0000

Microsoft have begun to push out the Xbox LIVE update for their Xbox 360 console, and along with the games on demand, new avatar customization and UI improvements comes confirmation that the company has signed an exclusive deal with Netflix for instant streaming to a console. The partnership means that the Xbox 360 will be the only console on which Netflix streaming is possible, effectively cutting the PlayStation 3 and Wii out of the loop.

“This exclusive partnership offers you the ability to instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix to the television via Xbox 360. Xbox 360 will be the only game console to offer this movie-watching experience, available to Xbox LIVE Gold members who are also Netflix unlimited plan subscribers, at no additional cost” Microsoft

As well as the usual TV and movie streaming from Netflix’s catalog, there’s a new “Party Watch” feature which allows multiple groups to gather together and watch the same content simultaneously on different 360’s and in different locations. You’ll need to be a Netflix unlimited plan subscriber to have access through Xbox LIVE Gold, and use a separate computer to queue up titles as there’s no facility to do so through the 360 itself.

Xbox LIVE will be pushed out to users starting from today, offered as an upgrade when you restart your console. Later on in 2009, Microsoft have promised to add access to the Zune Video Marketplace – for 1080p content – together with integration with Facebook, Last.FM and Twitter. More on the update here.

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Toshiba planning internet-connected HD media player

Chris Davies — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:10:50 +0000

Toshiba may have been late to the Blu-ray party, but that doesn’t mean they’re putting all of their eggs in one blue-lasered basket. According to Olivier Van Wynendaele, assistant general manager in marketing of Toshiba Europe’s consumer products division, the company is also working on an internet connected storage device that works with high-definition content.

“BD is not the unique answer to the one problem. There’s flash memory and online as well, and we are investing in delivering HD content by those means too. There is a storage product we are working on at the moment that connects specifically to the internet but I can’t talk any more about that right now” Olivier Van Wynendaele, assistant general manager, marketing, consumer products, Toshiba European Operations

Wynendaele wouldn’t be drawn on what that product was exactly, though it’s not hard to imagine some sort of networked media player with streaming HD content and that concentrates on digital delivery rather than physical media. According to the executive, Toshiba have been investing in delivering HD content via both flash memory and online.

As for why they’ve jumped into Blu-ray now, rather than at some point over the past eighteen months since HD-DVD officially threw in the towel, Wynendaele suggested it was a combination of market readiness, product maturity and retailer demand. In computing, he denies that the format’s absence has impacted laptop or PC sales, suggesting that it’s only now that high-end machines are expected to come with a Blu-ray drive of some sort.

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Digeo Moxi Mate $399 multiroom DVR streamer

Chris Davies — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 14:52:28 +0000

Digeo have unveiled the latest piece in their Moxi DVR puzzle, the Moxi Mate, which takes digital content multi-room. Designed to work in tandem with the Moxi HD DVR, the “virtually silent” box shuttles video recorded from the main unit, together with Rhapsody music, Flickr photos and – courtesy of the PlayOn software – Hulu and Netflix content.

You’ll also be able to browse the internet, using Digeo’s MoxiNet app, as well as stream media from any other DLNA-compliant device on the home network. Initially it won’t be possible to remotely program recordings on the main HD DVR, but that will seemingly be added in a future update. However you do get a new grid-layout view for the guide, and compatibility with the switched digital video some cable operators use.

Finally, Digeo have added support for more external storage devices – including LaCie’s range – to augment the main DVR’s 500GB internal drive. The Moxi Mate will retail for $399 (alongside the $799 Moxi HD DVR) but there’ll also be a bundle for $999 while existing HD DVR owners can pick up a Mate for just $199.

[via Electronic House]

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Panasonic update VIERACast Blu-ray decks with Amazon Video On Demand

Chris Davies — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:40:51 +0000

Panasonic are pushing out an update today that will bring Amazon Video On Demand support to owners of their 2009 Blu-ray VIERACast players. The update will allow users to browse and shop through Amazon’s catalog of over 45,000 standard-definition titles and more than 1,000 HD titles, with no monthly subscription and instant playback.

Since the catalog – and record of the user’s purchases – is online, any content bought through a Panasonic Blu-ray player will also be available to view on other Amazon VOD-compatible systems. That includes PC and Mac playback, Panasonic’s VIERACast HDTVs, and A/V equipment from other companies including Sony.

Panasonic added Amazon VOD support to its VieraCast HDTVs back in April. VIERACast also offers YouTube and Picassa access.

Press Release:

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF AMAZON VIDEO ON DEMAND ON ITS FULL LINE OF 2009 VIERA CASTTM-ENABLED BLU-RAY DISC PLAYERS

Owners of 2009 Panasonic Blu-ray Disc Players Now Have Access To Amazon Video On Demand’s Extensive Selection of Movies & TV Shows, Including Over 1000 High Definition Titles

SECAUCUS, NJ (August 4, 2009) – Panasonic, a leader in High Definition technology and built-in TV web entertainment, announced today that Amazon Video On Demand is now available on its full line of 2009 VIERA CASTTM-enabled Blu-ray Disc players. Current owners of Panasonic’s 2009 Blu-ray Disc players automatically received a free software update today and can begin enjoying the service immediately when they register their VIERA CAST Blu-ray Disc Player with Amazon Video On Demand.

Panasonic introduced Amazon Video On Demand on VIERA CAST-enabled Plasma HDTVs in April 2009.

Bringing unique internet-enabled services to Panasonic VIERA Blu-ray owners, Amazon Video On Demand on VIERA CAST, enables customers to:

· Browse and shop for their favorite movies and TV shows from Amazon Video On Demand’s selection of more than 45,000 commercial-free titles, including the latest new releases and over 1000 titles in HD.

· Enjoy instant playback streamed to your player, no downloading, no waiting and no subscription fees.

· Access and add to their virtual library of purchases, via Amazon Video On Demand’s Your Video Library, and re-watch them on any of Panasonic’s critically acclaimed line of VIERA CAST-enabled Blu-ray Disc players or online with a PC, MAC or other compatible device.

For 2009, Panasonic’s VIERA CAST feature has been extended to all of its Blu-ray Disc player models, including the DMP-BD60, BD70V, BD80 and the B15* – the world’s first and only portable Blu-ray Disc player. An internet connection is required to access VIERA CAST.

“Having our VIERA CAST feature on our line of 2009 Panasonic Blu-ray players means you can now access the best of the web, directly from your living room,” said Richard Simone, Panasonic’s Entertainment Group Director. “The introduction of Amazon Video On Demand to our VIERA CAST offerings gives every owner of a 2009 Panasonic Blu-ray player access to a vast collection of movies and TV shows, including HD quality new releases, on virtually any digital television. And you can take it on the road with you too with Panasonic’s VIERA CAST-enabled, B15 portable Blu-ray Disc player.”

In addition to Amazon Video On Demand, VIERA CAST will continue to provide access to YouTube™, Picasa Web Albums™, Bloomberg News and weather information. With VIERA CAST, consumers will have automatic access to additional sites as they are added to the service.

VIERA CAST was widely acknowledged last year for its distinctive internet application, allowing the consumer to view targeted sites on a large HDTV, rather than a small computer screen. VIERA CAST has a built-in Ethernet interface – no external box or PC is required. VIERA CAST is accessed via a single button on the Blu-ray Disc player remote control and there is no fee to use the VIERA CAST functionality.

“The addition in April 2009 of Amazon Video On Demand’s premium service to Panasonic VIERA CAST-enabled HDTVs really took the entertainment experience to a whole new level for consumers,” said Merwan Mereby, Panasonic’s Vice President of New Business Development. “As promised in April, Panasonic is now pleased to deliver Amazon Video On Demand service to owners of our award-winning 2009 line of VIERA CAST-enabled Blu-ray Disc players as well. Combined with the extensive, consumer-generated content VIERA CAST already offers via YouTube and Google Picasa, this is yet another step in the ever-growing value of VIERA CAST for owners of Panasonic HDTVs and Blu-ray players.”

“Panasonic and Amazon Video On Demand have built a great customer experience that easily allows customers to shop, purchase or rent from our library of over 45,000 movies & TV shows with no subscription fees,” said Bill Carr, Amazon Vice President Music and Video. “Using Panasonic’s line of VIERA CAST-enabled Blu-ray players, even more customers can now instantly experience Amazon’s compelling HD-quality, new release movies and TV shows from their living room.”

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Netflix iPhone movie streaming on the way?

Brenda Stokes — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 23:15:17 +0000

If the latest rumors are to be believed, apparently Netflix might just be offering up movie streaming for subscribers on their iPhones and iPod touch devices. And while nothing has been confirmed yet, it does seem somewhat likely.

The “Watch Instantly” feature will supposedly soon be available on Apple devices as well. You would only be able to access movies if you had a Wi-Fi connection, not just 3G.

We don’t know at this point if a special app will be required to watch the movies, but since the iPhone doesn’t have Silverlight or Flash support, it would need to use the video streaming built-in to the devices. None of this is official yet, but since Netflix is continuously expanding their availability, this move would make sense.

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LG add VUDU 1080p on-demand movies to NetCast HDTVs

Chris Davies — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:41:18 +0000

VUDU have announced that they have partnered with LG to put their on-demand IPTV system into the latter’s HDTVs. Rather than demanding a separate VUDU box, the LG “NetCast” range of TVs will be able to access on-demand rental or purchase of HD and 1080p Full HD titles, with a system that VUDU promise will see no stuttering or buffering delays.

There’s also Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 surround sound, instant fast-forward and rewind, together with chapter navigation. So far VUDU offer over 2,000 titles in HD and HDX (1080p) resolution, together with SD films and TV shows.

The update will be rolled out to existing LH50-series and PS80-series internet-connected HDTVs starting from August 2009, as well as being preloaded onto new sets. There’s no monthly rental fee for the VUDU service, and we imagine other IPTV-capable TV manufacturers are already eying up their system for possible inclusion.

Press Release:

VUDU’s Streaming Movie Service Transforms HDTVs into Movie-On-Demand Video Stores

VUDU Launches Unparalleled New Movie Streaming Service For Next Generation Smart TVs

Santa Clara, CA – July 29, 2009, VUDU Inc., a leading provider of on-demand Internet entertainment services today announced its second-generation service platform specifically optimized for Internet capable smart TVs.

“Smart TV’s are part of an exciting new industry trend. VUDU is partnering with leading consumer electronics vendors to embed the new VUDU service directly into the TV, eliminating the expense and hassle of purchasing, installing, or connecting another device to the TV”, said Alain Rossmann, CEO of VUDU.

The new VUDU service delivers a compelling environment for consumers to discover and watch high definition 1080p movies on-demand. The company is also announcing that industry leader LG Electronics will ship new HDTVs that include the new VUDU service.

VUDU customers can instantly buy or rent from the largest library of on-demand high definition movies – including the newest releases from all major Hollywood studios, with no monthly fees. The VUDU’s service uniquely delivers movies in true 1080p high definition and high resolution Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 surround sound, setting the industry standard for on-demand HD movies.

“Internet-delivered video to the TV, sans box, is the Holy Grail for what the TV industry today calls ‘over-the-top’ providers, “said Jimmy Schaeffler, Chairman and CSO of The Carmel Group. “I believe VUDU’s widely acknowledged excellence in video quality and user experience is likely to be a key driver for customer adoption of this next generation of smart devices in the living room.”

“With our second generation platform we are pushing the envelope even further by delivering for the first time features such as instant fast forward and rewind, instant start for all movie qualities including HDX, and an even faster and more refined user interface” said Alain Rossmann, CEO of VUDU.

Key VUDU Features:
Instant viewing experience: unlike typical Internet and on-demand video streaming, VUDU movies start immediately, and viewers can fast forward, rewind and browse chapters without the delays or the frustration associated with buffering.
Highest quality on-demand experience: VUDU’s unique HDX format delivers true 1080p resolution, TruFilm picture enhancements, and high resolution Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 surround sound
No monthly fees: customers can instantly buy or rent from VUDU’s extensive library of standard and high definition movie and TV titles.
Largest HD library anywhere: over 2,000 titles are available in HD or HDX format.
New releases: Newly released titles from all major studios are available day and date with the DVD release, months before they are typically available on subscription-based services.

The new VUDU Service for smart TVs will make its debut on LG Electronics’ upcoming models of Broadband TVs.

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VuNow IPTV box gets CinemaNow movie streaming

Chris Davies — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:17:51 +0000

Verismo Networks have added Roxio CinemaNow streaming media purchases to the list of talents their VuNow IPTV box can boast. The video-on-demand box can already show streaming content from local network storage or YouTube, and now adds Sonic Solutions’ 250 content providers to its line-up.

The VuNow system consists of a set-top box, available in standard- and high-definition versions, and a USB WiFi dongle which is used to stream content directly to the VuNow PoD. As well as CinemaNow content and YouTube, the setup can also access popular websites, internet TV and more, together with play content stored on USB drives.

CinemaNow titles are available in pay-per-view format, and include films, TV shows and music videos. The VuNow SD is on sale for $129, while the VuNow HD is available for $149.

Press Release:

Verismo Networks Teams with Sonic to Bring Big Screen Entertainment to the Television

Verismo adds content from Roxio CinemaNow to its VuNow platform, giving consumers access to Thousands of Hollywood movies on their TVs

Mountain View, CA, July 28, 2009 – Verismo Networks and Sonic Solutions® (NASDAQ: SNIC) are bringing Hollywood blockbusters and world class films to living rooms everywhere. Adding the popular Roxio CinemaNow® content to the VuNow Internet TV platform, Verismo is enhancing the entertainment options for movie lovers – letting people watch an extensive content library directly on the TV without a computer.

Verismo’s VuNow™ Internet TV platform is the first solution that allows consumers to watch and enjoy any content from the web right on their television, without having to connect a computer in between. The palm-sized VuNow Pod gives consumers access to a wide range of online video content including movies, YouTubeTM videos, and live global TV channels, with a click of the remote.

The agreement with Sonic further expands VuNow’s content offerings. Through relationships with more than 250 content providers, including all major Hollywood studios, the CinemaNow library includes thousands of high-quality Hollywood movies, TV shows, and music videos.

“VuNow offers consumers the broadest choice of online video content for today’s living room,” said Prakash Bhalerao, CEO of Verismo Networks. “By partnering with Sonic, we’re able to give our customers even more entertainment options – from TV episodes to Hollywood new releases.

“Consumers are increasingly turning to the Internet for easy and convenient access to entertainment content. Our relationship with Verismo will give entertainment lovers greater ease in accessing premium digital content from the comfort of their living rooms,” said Mark Ely, executive vice president of Strategy, Sonic Solutions.

Verismo Networks sells the VuNow Pod directly to consumers online through their website as well as through Amazon.com. The platform has already generated significant interest among large Consumer OEMs, Content aggregators, Telco equipment companies, and Service providers who plan to deploy their own differentiated versions of VuNow based products.

About Verismo Networks

Verismo’s VuNow platform transforms the TV set into a powerful multi-media hub with an unbelievable level of choice and ease in accessing digital entertainment. You’ve never seen your television like this before. The privately held company is based in Mountain View, California with offices in Bangalore, India. For more information, please visit www.verismonetworks.com.

About Sonic Solutions

Sonic Solutions® (NASDAQ: SNIC) is powering the digital media ecosystem through its complete range of Hollywood to Home™ applications, services, and technologies. Sonic’s Roxio® products enable consumers to easily manage and enjoy personal digital media content and, through Roxio CinemaNow®, access premium Hollywood entertainment on a broad range of connected devices. A wide array of leading technology firms, professionals, and developers rely on Sonic to bring innovative digital media functionality to next-generation devices and platforms. Sonic Solutions is headquartered in Marin County, California.

[via Engadget HD]

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Sonic gearing up to offer 3D movies at home

Brenda Stokes — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:39:09 +0000

More and more movies are being released into theaters in 3D these days, which is no doubt impressive, but wouldn’t it be nice to have this technology at home? That’s what Sonic thinks as they begin development of a 3D home movie delivery system.

In an effort to get this project off the ground, Sonic is working with NVIDIA and others to bring GeForce 3D Vision to their Roxio CinemaNow player.

Compatible displays include the ViewSonic FuHzion VX2265wm and the Samsung 2233RZ. The movies will be shown in 1080p and can be shown on anything device that’s 3D-ready including projectors. There’s no word on any potential release date or cost, but we’ll keep you posted.

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Sony adding Netflix and more to BRAVIA HDTVs

Chris Davies — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:29:13 +0000

Sony have announced that, as of fall 2009, Netflix, Demand Media and ON Networks will arrive on their BRAVIA HDTVs. A standard feature on any upcoming Sony BRAVIA internet video-capable HDTV, and usable on existing sets courtesy of Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Video Link module, Netflix users will be able to access their instant queue lists on their TV.

As with other implementations we’ve seen, actually adding TV shows or films to the queue will need to be carried out on a computer; there’s no way to navigate the full catalog on the HDTV itself. Netflix joins Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube and various other streaming media systems on the Sony devices.

The Sony BRAVIA Internet Media Link box is available for roughly $300, and connects via HDMI. Sony’s actual internet-enabled HDTVs are, unsurprisingly, more expensive.

Press Release:

SONY ADDS NETFLIX TO BRAVIA INTERNET VIDEO PLATFORM

Golflink, LIVESTRONG.COM, eHow and ON Networks Also Join Expanding Content Line Up

SAN DIEGO, July 9, 2009 – Netflix, Demand Media™, and ON Networks® are the latest content providers to join Sony’s BRAVIA® Internet Video platform.

In the fall of 2009, Netflix members will be able to instantly watch more than 12,000 movies and TV episodes on Sony BRAVIA Internet Video-capable HDTVs and on previous BRAVIA models compatible with Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Video Link module.

With BRAVIA Internet Video-capable HDTVs, users can enjoy access to one of the largest collections of premium and free on-demand entertainment directly on their HDTV. By connecting the TV to their existing broadband connection, users can access online video, music, and content from over 25 providers including Amazon Video On Demand, YouTube™, Sports Illustrated, Sony Pictures, Crackle, Slacker, Epicurious.com, Concierge.com, Style.com, and Dailymotion.

“Sony was first to bring Internet video to TV and we continue to deliver the one of the largest and most diverse catalogs of content to customers through BRAVIA Internet Video,” said Jeff Goldstein, vice president of Sony Electronics’ television business. “Adding Netflix gives many of our customers access to a vast library of streaming content through their existing Netflix accounts.”

Movies and TV episodes from Netflix can be watched instantly on Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Video-capable HDTVs through a Queue-based user interface. Netflix members can add movies and TV episodes to their instant Queues on the Netflix Web site. Those choices will then be automatically displayed when a user selects Netflix on the BRAVIA Internet Video platform.
Demand Media recently launched content on the BRAVIA Internet Video platform from its wholly-owned Web sites including Golflink.com, LIVESTRONG.COM, and eHow.com.

GolfLink provides hundreds of its valuable instructional golf videos from world class coaches like Hank Haney and Jim McLean, as well as hole-by-hole golf course flyovers, both of which help viewers to prepare and improve their game.

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MvixUSA Ultio 1080p UPnP streaming media player

Chris Davies — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:38:01 +0000

MvixUSA have rolled out their latest mediaplayer, the Ultio. A network-connected UPnP streamer, the Ultio has an optional internal hard-drive, can display content from Netflix, Hulu, YouTube and others, and has a variety of connection options. The company is also claiming that the Ultio supports the largest array of AV formats and codecs for any such device.

Those formats include H.264, MKV, Dixv HD, MOV, VC-1 and FLV, together with FLAC and AVCHD. The full list is available here. Up to a 1TB internal drive is supported, as well as external storage via the Ultio’s USB 2.0 ports, and there’s also a USB slave port to make transferring data from a computer straightforward.

A/V connections include HDMI v1.3, component and composite, together with optical and stereo audio outputs. There’s an onboard BitTorrent client for standalone downloads, plus an optional WiFi draft-n dongle.

The 1080p mediaplayer is available to order now, priced at $169 with no hard-drive or $259 with a 1TB drive preinstalled. It will begin shipping in the first week of July.

Press Release:

MvixUSA Launches Ultio: the Ultimate 1080p UPnP Home Theater Media Player

Chantilly, VA, June 25, 2009: Mvix(USA), Inc., a market leader in high-definition entertainment, business signage solutions and networked accessible storage devices, announces the worldwide launch of the Mvix® Ultio, a Hard-Disk Based media center capable of HD digital media playback with video output as high as 1080p and supporting the largest array of AV formats and codecs ever supported by any media player.

Ultio’s high-end video processing not only plays Blu-Ray quality video, it allows to store entire Hi-Definition media on its internal hard drive, plug it into a TV via a HDMI and enjoy movies, digital music and family photos on large LCD or Plasma. The flexibility and scalability of Ultio makes it the easy to play HD movies or home videos. Ultio supports most 1080p HD video codecs, and formats such as H.264, MKV, Dixv HD, MOV, VC-1, FLV, etc. It is also capable of playing unique formats such as AVC-HD (normally used in camcorder footage) or FLAC (the popular, uncompressed audio, craved by audiophiles).

Mvix Ultio is being launched in 2 flavors: the regular version (without a HDD) is priced at $169, whereas the premium version (bundled with 1TB Hard Drive) will be available at $259. Speaking on the occasion, Mike Mallon, the business development manager of Mvix (USA), Inc., commented “Mvix Ultio is the ultimate solution for high definition home entertainment which is likely to redefine the HD Media player market. The aggressive market price bundled with a comprehensive set of features is likely to attract a much larger customers-base than ever before.” Ultio is internet-ready and pre-equipped with a network port and an optional Wireless-N capability. It sports a samba server and a UPnP implementation, allowing seamless integration with services like PlayOn® or Tversity® (for streaming video content from Netflix®, Hulu®, CBS®, Youtube®, CNN®, ESPN® and much more).

Ultio is completely scalable – one can choose upto 1.5TB of media storage in its internal hard disk. Its built-in Torrent Client, combined with basic NAS features makes it an ideal setup for digital media acquisition, storage and sharing. Combined with spectacular picture quality of HD video and crystal clear sound clarity of digital audio, Mvix Ultio provides a complete HTPC experience. Ultio brings a ‘networking reality’ to Media players by enabling network media streaming from shared, password-protected PC folders, NAS or servers. Encompassing distinctive features of a traditional home-theater PC, it offers capabilities like formatting hard-drive, copy, delete, renaming of files and even physical transfer of files between USB storage, network shares, other PC or Mac and simply via the hand-held remote.

Mike further added, “This is our most comprehensive product to-date and we feel very confident about its market traction. In reality this new model is built by our valued customers – each feature on this device is an outcome of customer feedback on our older models. We are excited about this new product and I am sure our customers will be pleasantly surprised as well”

As part of the General Public License (GPL) agreement, MvixUSA will also make the firmware source-code available to its customers via its Support Center.

Pre-Orders of Mvix Ultio start immediately and it is scheduled to ship in July 1st week. Mvix Ultio will be available at popular retail locations such as Amazon.com, Buy.com, Thinkgeek.com, B&H Photo Video.com and directly from MvixUSA’s store.

For more information, please visit www.mvixusa.com/ultio/1080p-high-definition-home-theater-pc.html

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PopcornHour C200 media streamer: Blu-ray & BitTorrent ready [Video] [Updated with price]

Chris Davies — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:44:24 +0000

PopcornHour have revealed their latest media streamer, the C200, and compared to the previous-gen models it’s a significant step up. As well as a new 667MHz processor, the Sigma SMP8643, the PopcornHour C200 gets an HDMI 1.3 port, two SATA connectors, and a user-accessible drive bay for a HDD, DVD or Blu-ray drive.

Video demo after the cut

Updated with pricing/availability after the cut

Slotting in a Blu-ray drive either requires an internal hard-drive or 1GB USB drive be attached, but we imagine most owners will do the former anyway as it seems a shame not to use the C200 to its full extent. Connectivity includes four USB 2.0 (plus another inside), component/S-Video/composite video, stereo analog audio and S/PDIF optical and coaxial digital audio, gigabit ethernet and a miniPCI card slot that’s intended for an optional draft-n WiFi card.

The standard remote uses 2.4GHz RF, though an IR version is available, and the list of codecs the C200 supports is so long it’d probably be quicker to say what it doesn’t play. There’s also RSS and web video/audio/image support, including YouTube, Flickr and Veoh. No word on pricing or availability, but this is one very capable machine.

Update: According to the press release, below, the PopcornHour C200 will be available in July 2009, priced at $299.

Press Release:

Syabas Announces Next-Generation Internet Media Streaming Settop Box

Versatile Popcorn C-200 Now Features Blu-ray Playback Support, a Front Panel LCD and Removable Drive Bay for Either a Hard Disk Drive or Blu-ray Player

FREMONT, Calif. –(Business Wire)– Jun 17, 2009 Syabas, a leading provider of over-the-top settop software and hardware and makers of the award winning Popcorn Hour A-110, today announced the Popcorn C-200, a next-generation Internet settop box that streams digital content from the Internet or its internal hard drive to your television set and home stereo.¹ Unlike competing Internet settop boxes that support a limited number of Internet audio and video file types, the C-200 supports more than 30, including MPEG 1, 2, 4, AVI, H.264, Xvid, MKV, Windows Media and others.

“In today’s tough economic times, there are people facing the decision to either cancel their cable subscription or their Internet connection to make ends meet,” said Syabas COO, Alex Limberis. “With a C-200, people can experience the best of both worlds, as a lot of compelling content is freely available on the Internet. Today, consumers want to watch programs when they want them, not when a network or cable company tells them it’s okay.”

Like its predecessor, the Popcorn Hour A-110, the C-200 streams news and entertainment content from a number video partner sites such as YouTube, Vuze, Revision 3, CNET TV, Veoh, Blip.tv, NBC, CBS, CNN and BBC and Internet radio sites, such as Radio box and Live365 Radio. Additionally, the C-200 can stream still image content from Flickr, Pikeo and Picasa.

Additional new features of the C-200 include:

A redesigned external shell, which helps the unit better integrate into existing entertainment component stacks
Wireless RF remote control
An LCD display for quickly searching, streaming and/or downloading content, which is useful when listening to music without having the TV on
A gigabit Ethernet connection for lightning-fast file transfers
A front-loading drive bay that can be used to install a hard drive for storing and playing back downloaded content
The ability to add a Blu-ray drive with full support for Blu-ray navigation and Blu-ray Live
AVC HD format and navigation for displaying home video content from AVC format HD cameras
The C-200 includes component and HDMI out for high definition playback on today’s HDTVs. And for audio purists, the device features an optical line out, for playing back content that’s been encoded in Dolby Digital or DTS. The box also plays Wave, AAC and MP3 audio files, among others.

“Unlike competing new media streamers that have been around for less than a year and can require someone to hack a product’s operating system to get them to work, Syabas has been happily shipping media streaming products to satisfied customers around the world for several years,” said Alex Limberis, chief operating officer of Syabas.

Availability

The Popcorn C-200 is expected to be available in July for $299 from www.popcornhour.com. The package includes the C-200, an HDMI cable, RF remote control, quick start guide and installation software. Complete product specifications can be found at: www.popcornhour.com.

About Syabas

Syabas, headquartered in Fremont, California and with facilities in China and Malaysia, is a leading software developer for inexpensive wired/wireless digital home entertainment products. Syabas products enable users to access content such as high- and standard-definition video, music, photos and services, such as YouTube, Veoh, Vuze and DLTV, over a local network and the Internet.

¹= Hard drive not included

Specifications:

Connectivity
Bonjour
UPnP SSDP
UPnP AV
Windows Media Connect
Windows Media Player NSS
Samba
NFS
Media servers: myiHome, myiHomeLite, myiHomeMS (UPnP), MSP Portal
Third party media servers: WizD, SwissCenter, Llink, GB-PVR
BitTorrent P2P
Usenet downloader
NAS access: SMB, NFS, FTP

Web services
Video: YouTube, Vuze, Revision 3, Videocast, CNET TV, Mediafly, Veoh, Mevio, Bliptv, Break Podcast, CBS Evening News, CNN Anderson Cooper 360 Daily, CNN The Larry King Podcast, NBC Today Show, The CNN Daily, CNN In Case You Missed It, NBC Nightly News, NBC Meet The Press, CBS Face the Nation, Podfinder UK
Audio: Jamendo, iPodcast, BBC Podcast, Indiefeed, CNN News, ABC News
Photo: Flickr Photo, Picasaweb Photo, Pikeo, 23
RSS feed: Yahoo! Weather, NMT Forum, Bloglines, Cinecast, MSNBC News, Traffice Condition, Yahoo! Traffic Alerts, Yahoo! News, Weather Bug
Peer-to-peer TV: SayaTV
Internet Radio: Radio box, Live365 Radio

Media files supported
Video containers:
MPEG1/2/4 Elementary (M1V, M2V, M4V)
MPEG1/2 PS (M2P, MPG, DAT, VOB)
MPEG2 Transport Stream (TS, TP, TRP, M2T, M2TS, MTS)
AVI, ASF, WMV
Matroska (MKV)
MOV (H.264), MP4, RMP4

Video decoder:
XVID SD/HD
MPEG-1
MPEG-2 MP@HL
MPEG-4.2 ASP@L5, 720p, 1-point GMC
MPEG-4.10 (H.264)
BP@L3
MP@L4.0
HP@L4.0
HP@L4.1
WMV9
MP@HL
SMPTE 421M (VC-1)
MP@HL
AP@L3

Audio containers:
AAC, M4A
MPEG audio (MP1, MP2, MP3, MPA)
WAV
WMA
FLAC
OGG

Audio decoder:
Dolby Digital
DTS
WMA, WMA Pro
MPEG-1 Layer 1, 2, 3
MPEG-4 AAC-LC
MPEG-4 HE-AAC
MPEG-4 BSAC
LPCM
FLAC
Vorbis

Audio pass-through:
DTS, DTS-HD HR, DTS-HD MA
Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby True HD

Other formats:
ISO, IFO navigation
Rich Object Based Interactive Graphics
AVCHD navigation
Blu-ray ready (requires addition of compatible BD-ROM and at least 1GB USB stick or internal HDD)

Photo formats:
JPEG, BMP, PNG, GIF

Subtitle formats:
SRT, MicroDVD SUB, SSA, SUB/IDX

DRM
Cardea DRM (WMDRM-ND)
Janus DRM (WMDRM-PD)

Chipset
Sigma Designs SMP8643, 667MHz CPU with floating point coprocessor.
Memory
512MB DDR2 DRAM, 256MB NAND Flash

Audio/Video outputs
HDMI v1.3a with CEC, 36bpp deep color, 12-bit xvYCC processing and HDCP 1.2 content protection
Component Video
S-Video
Composite Video
Stereo Analog Audio
S/PDIF Optical and Coaxial Digital Audio

Other Interface
192×64 dots white text on blue background LCD display, with software adjustable brightness and power off
Power button with standby, reset and full power down
2x USB 2.0 host at the front
2x USB 2.0 host at the back
1x USB 2.0 internal
2x SATA (one occupied by HDD tray)
3.5″ HDD tray
Internal mounting for 2.5″ HDD
2.4GHz RF Remote Control
Infra-Red Remote Control port (Infra-Red Remote Control optional)

Network
Ethernet 10/100/1000
miniPCI MII interface for 11n WiFi card (optional)

Power
100~240V AC, 50~60 Hz, max 2.5A
typical: 13 W (no additional device installed/attached)
maximum: 70 W

Dimension
Width x Depth x Height : 425mm x 290mm x 80mm (16.73″ x 11.42″ x 3.14″)

Weight
3.7kg (8.3 lbs)

Package Content
Popcorn Hour C-200 (HDD not included)

IEC 60320 C13 power cord
1.5M length HDMI cable
RF Remote Control with 2 “AAA” batteries
Quick start guide

[via Engadget]

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Xbox 360 Hulu integration rumored

Chris Davies — Fri, 29 May 2009 15:14:17 +0000

Could Hulu and Microsoft be planning to announce integration of the former’s streaming media service with the Xbox 360? That’s one interpretation of Attack of the Show host Olivia Munn’s teasing Twitter message yesterday evening: “Just finished promos for hulu/microsoft event I’m doing on june 8!”

Microsoft have previously suggested that they were investigating Hulu connectivity on the Xbox 360, and the company has recently announced a deal with Sky Player in Europe. Hulu could well be the US counterpart to that system.

Hulu have just announced a desktop client for accessing their media, courting frustrated complaints from users who’d like to see access to the service through more flexible platforms like Boxee. If the Xbox 360 integration pans out, Hulu’s reluctance to open up could be explained by some sort of exclusivity agreement with Microsoft.

[via Gizmodo]

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Hulu Desktop app reminds people how good Boxee made it

Chris Davies — Fri, 29 May 2009 08:23:54 +0000

Hulu have announced a new desktop app, the imaginatively titled Hulu Desktop, which brings “lean-back viewing” to PC and Mac. The app allows the Hulu catalog to be browsed and titles played, either with a standard keyboard and mouse or with a remote control. However the news has come as something of a slap in the face to Boxee, who are still forced to use workaround fixes to access Hulu content on their multimedia platform.

“Hulu just launched their own boxee-like application for watching Hulu content. the new downloadable application is built to be used from the couch with a remote. We’re glad to see Hulu had a change of heart about bringing their service to the big screen, and we hope that this means Hulu content is coming back to boxee.” Avner Ronen, Boxee

Boxee have put in a request to Hulu to re-enable access through their software. They’re also flagging up a somewhat inaccurate anti-Boxee message that Hulu are showing to users, which suggests that Boxee can “cause problems with the Apple Remote Hardware”.

We’ll always welcome ways to access IPTV and streaming content in a non-traditional computer interface – we like kicking back and enjoying media from the sofa rather than at our desk like everyone else – but we’d also like choice as to how we access it. Hulu’s app, when you take into account their jealous content guarding from programs like Boxee which are trying to play fair with DRM, does come across as “borrowing” an idea to keep people in an ecosystem you’re desperate to keep closed.

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Conceptronic YUIXX Streaming HD media player & IPTV system

Chris Davies — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:36:35 +0000

The first retail product to use Intel’s Media Processor CE 3100 – aka the Canmore SoC – has been announced, the Conceptronic YUIXX, promising streaming media at up to 1080p high-definition resolution, up to 2TB of onboard storage and optional DVB T/C/S TV tuners. The handiwork of Conceptronic and Metrological (who supplied the software), the YUIXX has HDMI 1.3a, composite and component ports, together with two USB 2.0 ports, TOSLINK, an SD/MMC card reader and optional Bluetooth and WiFi draft-n.

Out of the box the YUIXX is configured to stream media over gigabit ethernet from UPnP/DLNA servers, but it can also funnel content over WiFi. Hulu support via an integrated browser with Adobe Flash 9.0 support is present, and outfitted with the right tuners it can record two channels simultaneously. A UMTS/HSUPA radio can even be specified.

Intel and Yahoo widgets will be supported, together with mini-apps like Twitter clients, a YouTube viewer and Shoutcast, and the whole thing turns on immediately rather than having a lengthy boot-up like a traditional HTPC. Expect to see cable and digital TV companies pick up the YUIXX and customize it for video-on-demand, internet access and other functions.

[via Engadget; via AroundMyRoom]

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FyreTV UnBoXXXing (SFW)

Steven Grady — Fri, 15 May 2009 22:22:04 +0000

This was an interesting assignment. SlashGear has received some FyreTV BoXXXes (Yes, three X’s) and absolutely must review them. Oh the terrible, terrible things this job makes me do. Explanation and video after the jump.

In case you are unaware of what a FyreTV is, you can visit the site (NOT SAFE FOR WORK!) or watch this handy unboxing video I have for you below and read the description. Now isn’t that something?

If you don’t fall into the former category and are indeed educated on the adult entertainment industries AppleTV like efforts, you’ll know that the FyreTV BoXXX is a handy television add-on that allows you to stream and download adult films and scenes to fit any, um, preference. The NEW version is WiFi enabled, taking care of the chief complaint for the previous version that adults don’t have televisions near their routers or ethernet ports. Not only do you get WiFi, but HDMI out as well for those of you who desire to see more detail in every scene, discovering new tattoos on your favorite adult video star perhaps. Sort your movies by star, category, studio and more to make the experience of using the FyreTV as satisfying as it can be. This is going to be one of the hard–most difficult jobs I’ve ever done, simply because keeping it PG is going to take some work, and there are so many euphemisms to avoid. But none the less I shall review the FyreTV soon, and have my impressions for you when I do.

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Vudu partners with Entone for set-top box service

Brenda Stokes — Tue, 05 May 2009 23:29:31 +0000

Vudu will soon be offering its movies on a third-party set-top box, changing up their title and adding the function of service provider to their already able hardware manufacturer moniker. Who is this third-party company in question? That would be Entone.

Vudu currently has a library of 14,000 standard definition movies and 1,500 HD movies. What’s cool here is that Vudu will be providing Entone, a regional provider of set-top boxes, with their full feature set. Anything that you could get on the Vudu Box will be available on the service on Entone as well.

A simple software update will make it possible to access the Vudu library. The new Entone boxes will work just like Vudu Box hardware and can even be used to access sites like Flickr and YouTube. Expect a summer release on this one.

[via CNET]

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Pirate Bay submits petition for a retrial

Brenda Stokes — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 17:41:18 +0000

Defendants from The Pirate Bay submitted a petition for a retrial today, moving forward on accusations that the trial itself was unfair and shouldn’t count. The official claim is that Judge Tomas Norstrom, who presided over the trial was biased.

So, what’s the basis for this supposed bias? Norstrom is a member of the Swedish Association for the Protection of Industrial Property and the Swedish Association for Copyright, which are publicly outspoken against websites and services like The Pirate Bay.

Should the ruling stand as it was laid out on April 17th, the four people that created The Pirate Bay will each have to serve a year long sentence in prison. We’ll just have to wait and see if the popular Torrent site founders will get the retrial they think they deserve.

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Amazon HD Video on Demand hits TiVo, Roku, VIERACast HDTVs

Chris Davies — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 08:25:16 +0000

Amazon have announced the arrival of HD content through their Video on Demand service. Leaked as in development last December, though denied at the time, the service goes live today with HD titles priced at between $3.99 and $4.99. Compatible devices include Series3 TiVo DVRs, Roku’s Video Player, Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Link and Panasonic VIERACast HDTVs.

It’s also possible to watch the HD content on a PC or Mac, with offline downloads supported for $2.99. As with other streaming content services, the HD in Amazon’s VoD is not at the same level as Blu-ray media; similarly, audio at present is stereo, not 5.1 surround sound.

Update: It seems that stereo or 5.1 sound is device-dependent, not down to Amazon’s service. Since the Roku can only stream files (as it has minimal onboard storage) it can only handle stereo sound; other devices, which can download a full file before beginning playback, are capable of accessing 5.1 surround sound.

The full list of available titles can be accessed at Amazon.com. The cheapest way to access the Amazon VoD service in a standalone system remains the Roku Video Player, priced at just $99.99.

Press Release:

Amazon Video On Demand Announces Launch of High Definition Movies and TV Episodes

Customers can now purchase HD TV shows from Amazon Video On Demand and rent HD movies from compatible devices including those from Roku, TiVo, Sony, and beginning today, Panasonic

SEATTLE – April 21, 2009 – Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced that customers can rent box-office favorites and purchase top TV shows in HD from Amazon Video On Demand. Customers can select from more than 500 HD TV shows and movies from major studios and networks including Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., Sony Pictures, Paramount Pictures, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Universal Studios Home Entertainment and Showtime Networks. Top titles available now in HD on Amazon Video On Demand include new-release movies such as “Frost/Nixon,” “Twilight” and “Yes Man” and hit TV series including “Californication,” “The Tudors,” “Smallville,” and “Gossip Girl.”

“Our customers have been asking us for two things: HD and the ability to watch movies and TV shows instantly on their television,” said Bill Carr, Amazon vice president Music and Video. “Today we are thrilled to begin offering HD and to add the distinctive Panasonic VIERA CAST®-enabled HDTV lineup to the growing number of televisions and devices supported by Amazon Video On Demand. We plan to continue making it easier than ever for customers to instantly enjoy their favorite TV shows and movies in HD from the comfort of their living rooms.”

With movies and TV episodes in HD, Amazon Video On Demand is providing customers with even more choices for entertainment. Customers can now order and watch movies and TV shows in HD on their televisions through compatible devices including: the Roku digital video player, TiVo Series3, HD, and HD XL DVRs, and the Sony Bravia Internet Video Link. Starting today, Amazon Video On Demand’s entire library of 40,000 titles, plus HD titles, are also available on Panasonic VIERA CAST® enabled HDTVs. Using these devices, customers can now rent HD movies for $3.99 – $4.99. Customers can also purchase and watch HD TV shows online on MACs or PCs, through compatible devices, or download them to their PC for offline viewing for $2.99.

“Panasonic is thrilled to be working with Amazon’s Video on Demand service, an association we see as another step in providing the ultimate entertainment experience for the consumer. Both Panasonic and Amazon are extremely consumer centric and this functionality will provide the consumer with a myriad of entertainment choices.” said Merwan Mereby, Panasonic vice president of New Business Development. “It’s fitting that Panasonic and Amazon have joined creative forces to create this unique entertainment vehicle. Panasonic’s VIERA CAST HDTVs have garnered numerous best of awards, while Amazon is a pioneer in transforming in-home movie entertainment. The consumer will have access to a vast selection of movie and TV entertainment at their finger tips with just a click of a button.”

“The addition of Amazon’s HD offerings to the Roku digital video player is a tremendous enhancement for our customers,” said Tim Twerdahl, vice president of consumer products at Roku. “Amazon’s vast selection of high-quality content is the perfect complement to Roku’s instant delivery of top movies and TV shows directly to the TV. The combination of Amazon Video On Demand and the $99 Roku player is an incredible value to customers.”

“This is a great day for our customers because our best-in-class HD offering just became even better with HD movies and TV shows now being offered by Amazon Video On Demand,” said Tara Maitra, vice president and general manager of Content Services and Advertising Sales at TiVo Inc. “Adding HD content from Amazon Video on Demand to an existing vast library of options shows once again that with a TiVo remote you truly can have it all. Consumers can access Amazon Video On Demand HD movies and TV shows, all with the simplicity people have come to expect from TiVo.”

“Striving to deliver high-quality content directly to customers, Sony is excited to have HD movies and television shows from Amazon Video On Demand delivered directly to BRAVIA televisions,” said Jeff Goldstein, vice president of TV Marketing for Sony Electronics.

Press Release:

DOWNLOADS FROM AMAZON VIDEO ON DEMAND COMING TO A TIVO DVR NEAR YOU

ALVISO, Calif. – April 21, 2009 — TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVO), the creator of and a leader in television services for digital video recorders (DVRs), today announced the availability of HD movies and television shows for download from Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) directly to their television set. Starting today, broadband connected subscribers with a Series3™, TiVo HD, or TiVo HD XL will have access to high quality HD downloads available from Amazon Video On Demand.

Movie and television lovers from coast to coast can browse through hundreds of selections, all without having to leave their living room and at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a Blu-ray disc. High definition episodes of current TV seasons will be available for purchase at $2.99 and top new release HD movies will be available for rental from $3.99 – $4.99. The experience is made even better with the vast majority of titles providing Dolby Digital 5.1 audio, offering a full surround sound experience.

“Consumers are seeking affordable entertainment alternatives to an expensive trip to the movies. With HD downloads for movies and TV shows, TiVo and Amazon can transform any night into a memorable movie experience, all for a fraction of the cost of the theater,” said Tara Maitra, general manager and vice president of content services and advertising sales at TiVo Inc. “Our customers now have access to a new world of ultra high quality HD television and movie choices, many of which are available when the DVDs are released, something no other DVR, cable, or satellite company can match.”

TiVo Search, which is optimized for HDTVs with a wide screen display, will include HD results from Amazon along with broadcast and cable programs when a user performs a search.

“TiVo is enabling customers to access our unparalleled library of hit movies and TV shows, bringing them directly into the home where friends and family can watch from the comfort of the couch,” said Bill Carr, Amazon vice president music and video. “Together with TiVo, Amazon Video On Demand is excited to offer HD and increase the selection, quality, and convenience for the TiVo community.”

To activate their broadband-connected TiVo DVR, subscribers can log onto Amazon.com at http://www.amazon.com/videoondemand/tv. After a one-time registration, they can use the remote to search and browse the Amazon selections right from the TV screen, then download the selection directly to the TiVo DVR. To receive more information on how to download HD content from Amazon via your TiVo DVR visit www.tivo.com/amazon.

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Adobe Flash Platform for HDTVs gets hardware, content

Chris Davies — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:23:33 +0000

Adobe have announced hardware and content partners who will adopt the Adobe Flash Platform on internet-connected HDTVs and set-top boxes. Demonstrating a range of widget and HD streaming media capable devices at the National Association of Broadcasters Show this week, Broadcom, Comcast, Intel, Netflix, NXP Semiconductors and others have all signed up for the platform.

At a basic level, the Adobe Flash Platform for the Digital Home (to give it its full title) will allow users to stream flash video files through media devices that have internet connections, without requiring a traditional browser. Both standard and high definition content will be supported, together with applications such as media-themed games or interactive tools.

Since Flash can also be found on mobile devices, desktops and other consumer electronics, Adobe are positioning Flash for the Digital Home as more flexible and consistent than home-grown internet media players found on some HDTVs and Blu-ray players. Netflix, Disney, Atlantic Records and the New York Times are all promising content via the Adobe system.

Press Release:

Adobe Extends Flash Platform to Digital Home

Silicon, OEM, Cable and Content Partners Embrace Adobe Flash Platform for Televisions, Set-Top Boxes and Blu-Ray Players

SAN JOSE, Calif. & LAS VEGAS –(Business Wire)– Apr 20, 2009 At the 2009 NAB Show, Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced the extension of the Adobe® Flash® Platform to connected digital home devices with an optimized implementation of Flash technology that delivers high definition (HD) video and rich applications to Internet-connected televisions, set-top boxes, Blu-ray players and other devices in the digital living room. Major System on Chips (SoC) vendors, OEMs, cable operators and content providers including Atlantic Records, Broadcom, Comcast, Disney Interactive Media Group, Intel, Netflix, STMicroelectronics, The New York Times Company, NXP Semiconductors, Sigma Designs, and others announced support for the optimized Flash technology today. The Adobe Flash Platform for the Digital Home is available immediately to OEMs and the first devices and SoC platforms with support for the optimized Flash technology are expected to ship in the second half of 2009.

The Adobe Flash Platform for the Digital Home now enables the delivery of HD Web videos to digital home devices via the Flash Video (FLV) file format. Consumers will be able to enjoy rich, interactive viewing experiences and amazing new ways to engage with HD content on televisions. Flash technology-based applications will allow users to quickly switch between television programming and Web content outside the Web browser. With the optimized implementation of Flash technology, content providers are able to extend their reach to millions of connected digital home devices, and cable operators and device manufacturers are able to develop new services and powerful user interfaces that deliver immersive experiences. A preview of Adobe Flash technology for digital home devices is being shown in the Adobe booth (SL3320, South Hall) and during Adobe’s NAB Super Session today.

“Adobe Flash Platform for the Digital Home will dramatically change the way we view content on televisions,” said David Wadhwani, general manager and vice president, Platform Business Unit at Adobe. “Consumers are looking to access their favorite Flash technology-based videos, applications, services and other rich Web content across screens. We are looking forward to working with partners to create these new experiences and deliver content consistently across devices whether consumers view it on their desktop, mobile phone or television.”

Key industry partners also announced support for the optimized Flash technology for digital home devices:

“Comcast is constantly working to deliver richer user interfaces and services to our customers,” said Labeeb Ismail, vice president, Technology at Comcast. “As an active participant of the Open Screen Project, we are working closely with Adobe to integrate the optimized Flash runtime with tru2way technology, enabling a new range of engaging, interactive services to consumers.”

“As a new contributor to the Open Screen Project, Disney shares Adobe’s vision of extending HD video and rich, engaging experiences across multiple screens,” said Bud Albers, CTO and executive vice president at Disney Interactive Media Group. “Adobe Flash Platform-based applications and services play an important role in delivering the latest Disney content via the Web, mobile phones and other consumer electronics. As a leading innovator for media and entertainment, we are excited about the opportunities of Flash based applications and services coming to televisions.”

“Intel and Adobe have a long history of collaboration and have worked together to optimize Flash technology for the digital home on the Intel® Media Processor CE 3100, the first in a new family of purpose-built Intel System-on-Chips (SoCs) for CE devices,” said William O. Leszinske Jr., general manager of Intel’s Digital Home Group. “As an active participant of the Open Screen Project, we recognize the value of extending rich, Flash based Internet content and applications to a broad range of devices in your pocket, on your lap, at the office and now in your living room. We are excited to integrate the optimized Flash runtime into digital home platforms featuring Intel’s SoC, such as advanced set-top boxes, high-definition digital televisions, Blu-ray Disc players and other connected AV devices.”

“As the world’s leading online movie rental service, Netflix always seeks new ways for subscribers to find and enjoy the movies they’ll love,” said Bill Holmes, vice president of Business Development at Netflix. “Adobe’s Flash Platform for the Digital Home offers great promise as Netflix continues its expansion directly to the television with our consumer electronics partners.”

“The New York Times is pleased to work with Adobe on the Open Screen Project,” said Michael Zimbalist, vice president of Research and Development Operations at The New York Times Company. “The extension of Flash technology to digital home devices is an important step in delivering applications consistently across screens and will help the Times Company better deliver our high quality news, information and multimedia to the digital living room.”

“Sigma Designs has long recognized that IPTV is the future, and has been a constant innovator of SoC solutions for IP-connected set top boxes and Blu-ray players,” said Ken Lowe, vice president for Business Development and Strategic Marketing at Sigma Designs. “Consumers clearly want to access Flash based HD videos and other rich Web content on their televisions. We are working closely with Adobe to integrate the optimized Flash runtime into our SoC solutions to enable a better, more interactive user experience on connected digital home devices.”

Delivering Flash technology to the digital home builds on the vision of the Open Screen Project, a broad industry initiative to deliver a consistent runtime environment across devices. Announced in May 2008, the initiative is dedicated to enabling Web content and standalone applications across televisions, desktops, mobile devices and other consumer electronics that take advantage of capabilities of the Adobe Flash Platform. For more information, visit www.openscreenproject.org.

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Sony, YouTube in talks on movie streaming

Brenda Stokes — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:38:39 +0000

Earlier this week, we talked about a rumor going around that Sony and YouTube were in talks about the possibility of the video site posting full length movies and now Sony has confirmed that such talks are, in fact, happening.

So, what’s the extent of this confirmation? Apparently, Sony Pictures Television spokesperson Paula Askanas said, “We are having conversations with YouTube.” Yeah, not earth-shattering news, but a solid non-denial, which we like.

If this deal does happen, it would mean YouTube could post full-length Sony Pictures’ films for free, with revenue being generated by ads, no doubt. It is likely that older films will make it up on YouTube first, not the latest blockbusters, so as to not drive DVD sales down.

[via Electronista]

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Boxee add App Box, API, Pandora & Hulu-happy browser

Chris Davies — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:55:05 +0000

Boxee have launched a new version of their open-source media center app, together with an API for developers and a new download service called App Box for third-party extensions. The company has also confirmed that they are in talks with manufacturers to get Boxee loaded onto games consoles, Blu-ray players and other set-top boxes.

To demonstrate the new API, Boxee has released two initial plugins: Pandora and RadioTime. The former allows users to sign in with their standard Pandora account, set up stations and listen to existing Quick Mixes, while the latter offers over 100,000 streaming radio stations.

Eventually developers will be able to charge for their Boxee plugins, but for now all extensions will be free. Boxee have also answered the call for Hulu support by embedding a Mozilla-based browser into the media center. You can download the latest version of Boxee, v0.9.11.5591, here.

[via ArsTechnica]

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YouTube set to get Sony films, says rumor

Brenda Stokes — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 21:29:39 +0000

According to a rumor floating around, YouTube is in talks with Sony Pictures at this moment to carry the company’s movies on the site. This would be a be a pretty big deal and show an effort on YouTube’s part to expand their content offerings.

We don’t know much about the terms of this deal yet, but we can safely assume if this deal goes through that YouTube would be offering ad-sponsored movies that are free for users to watch.

This would be another step toward YouTube offering professional videos. They already are offering music videos and some TV shows, so this would be a logical next step. And just think–such a deal would provide iPhone and HTC Touch users with the opportunity to access films on their devices as well.

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