This time, TiVo has placed an emphasis on web video services like Netflix and Amazon Video on Demand (similar content will be nearer the front of the line in searches), and has partnered with Pandora and FrameChannel for your music and pictures.  Of course, both the $299 Premiere and the $499 XL have up to full-HD 1080p output, and CableCARD and eSATA support for expansion purposes, while the former can store up to 45 hrs of recorded HD content on a 320GB hard drive, and the XL at 150 hrs on a 1TB drive (plus THX certification).

There also appears to be an optional Bluetooth slider QWERTY-based remote, as well as a Wireless N Adapter, the latter for an additional $90 with the Premiere.  Check out the full press release and PDF spec sheets linked, as well as some shots of the very impressive user interface.

INTRODUCING TIVO® PREMIERE, THE ONE BOX TO RULE THEM ALL
New Box Offers a Stunning New HD Experience That Blows Away Any Other Cable Set-Top Box

TiVo Opens Up the Box to Pandora Internet Radio, Maximizing the TiVo Music Experience

Alviso, Calif. March 3 -TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVO), a leader in advanced television services, including digital video recorders (DVRs), announced today the launch of TiVo® Premiere and TiVo® Premiere XL boxes. TiVo Premiere elegantly combines access to cable programming, movies, web videos, and music all in one box at a truly affordable price. TiVo Premiere is now the only way to unlock the real value of the HD television set, a box that is more powerful, compact, and energy efficient than previous generations. If the DVR changed your life, TiVo Premiere will change it again.

“It has never been this easy to get all your entertainment in one place, on the big screen, in HD, right at your fingertips. And the beauty of TiVo Premiere is that finding what to watch is just as fun as the watching the TV shows themselves. We accomplished it by using pictures and graphics to make the whole television guide experience come alive in a way that it never has before,” said TiVo’s President and CEO Tom Rogers. “TiVo Premiere is your new cable box, it’s your movie box, it’s your web box, and music box; it’s the one box that can give you access to almost anything you want, whenever you want it. We’ve taken millions of pieces of content and organized it for you in a way that makes so much sense you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.”

Why Premiere Is Revolutionary:

It’s the One Box: TiVo Premiere is your new cable box, movie box, web box, and music box; it’s the one box that gives you access to everything you want to get on your television and all with one remote. It’s a true one stop shop for entertainment.*

Broadband and Broadcast Integration: Premiere’s search functionality offers users the ability to find programs from many sources – whether it’s a digital premium channel from cable, a funny outtake from YouTube or a movie from broadband sources such as Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, or Blockbuster On Demand, plus options from the Web all brought together into one unified and simple experience.*

Browse Baby Browse: Premiere is at its best when you want to browse, discover and explore the almost infinite array of TV options. Every show, from every source, is organized by category or topic. With a full-screen menu that includes a rich display of movie posters & TV show logos for exploring, it’s simple to stumble upon interesting things to watch or record. Plus, consumers have never before had the option to browse by specific movie collections on their TV. For example, browse thru Oscar® Award winning movies or Emmy® Award winning television shows with one simple click of the remote.

Six-Degrees of Separation: Premiere will settle debates over “where have I seen that actor before?” far faster than a trip to the laptop ever could. Just click on a show or an actor and consumers will be able to view entire entertainment resumes and cast lists, quickly and easily. Before you know it you’ll find associations from one favorite actor to another that you never dreamed existed, fueling the discovery process even more and likely getting you hooked in the process.

Easy to Use HD Layout: We’ve kept the easy navigation, but significantly cut the number of screens you have to visit by utilizing the extra room high-definition affords. The experience was built for HD television sets and by creating a two-column and three-column layouts we reduce the number of screens, helping you to get to what you want more quickly.

Set-top box built on Adobe® Flash® Platform for the Digital Home: Premiere is built on Adobe Flash software, a pathway to future user-generated experiences and development opportunities, which have not been available before on a set-top box. Premiere is built on multi-core architecture that greatly facilitates future development of third party provided applications.

We Listened: By popular demand Premiere includes an on-screen disk space meter that shows how much room is left to record, a built in 30 second scan, and a new video window that lets you watch your favorite show while navigating the TiVo menus.

Room to Record: The TiVo Premiere box has up to 45 hours of HD storage space or up to 400 hours of standard definition programming capacity. And for those who want even more options the TiVo Premiere XL box holds up to 150 hours of high-definition or up to 1350 hours of standard definition programming.

Even More Content: A brand new relationship with Pandora means in the coming months, Premiere as well as TiVo Series3™ and HD DVR customers will be able to listen to their personalized Pandora radio stations on the best speakers in the house. A new relationship with FrameChannel brings the best of the web directly to the TV offering users access to nearly 1,000 content widgets of personal and commercial content, ranging from Tweets, photos and status updates to news, weather, sports scores and stock quotes. FrameChannel acts as a personalized channel on your television, transforming your TV into a constant stream of real-time news and information with the content that matters to you most.

Speaking about its strategic marketing alliance with TiVo that was announced last year, Mike Vitelli, President of the Americas for Best Buy, said, “This is an important step toward achieving our shared vision to transform the digital home entertainment experience and redefine customer service. Through TiVo we can continue to strengthen relationships and interact with our valued customers even after they leave our stores, which is invaluable in a rapidly evolving digital media environment. Cable companies do a great job of connecting customers to content, but TiVo takes the complete digital experience to the next level.”

“We are proud to be leading the cable industry in the adoption of this groundbreaking approach to advanced television. TiVo will bring a whole new way for our subscribers to experience television with TiVo’s DVR and broadband television offerings,” said RCN President & CEO Peter Aquino. “I’m very pleased to report that based on our field test results, we will begin to roll out TiVo as our primary advanced box in all of our markets, one by one, in the second quarter of this year.”

Coming in May, a new TiVo Wireless N adapter, that allows for faster downloads and faster streaming of content, at speeds that are especially helpful for multi-room viewing (MRV) transfers. Coming later this year, consumers will also have access to a groundbreaking, slide-out QWERTY TiVo remote. The compact peanut shaped remote gives a faster experience, especially when utilizing text entry. With Easy plug n’ play installation, extended range utilizing Bluetooth and backlit programmable buttons the remote will quickly become a must have accessory.

TiVo Premiere Box Specifications:
TiVo Series4™ architecture
Supports digital cable, high-definition digital cable, antenna (ATSC) and Verizon FiOS
Outputs: HDMI, Component video, Composite video, Optical audio, Analog audio
Video output modes include: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p
Inputs: CableCARD™ support, Cable coax, Antenna coax, Ethernet
Ethernet connection, USB 2.0 ports (2), E-SATA support for external storage
TiVo Wireless N and G Network Adapter support
ENERGY STAR® certified
320 Gigabytes
Records up to 45 hours of HD programming or up to 400 hours of standard-definition

TiVo Premiere XL Box Specifications (all specs not listed are the same as above unless noted)
One Terabyte storage
Records up to 150 hours of HD programming or up to 1350 hours of standard-definition
Backlit, programmable, and learning remote
THX®certified, ensuring optimal audio and video reproduction and enables seamless integration with other THX components
TiVo Premiere XL box is the first HD product to feature THX® Optimizer™, a video calibration tool that lets users fine tune color, black levels and other settings to improve picture quality. Hailed by critics for its ease-of-use, the exclusive THX Optimizer for TiVo Premiere XL box is found in the My Shows menu of the TiVo service. A pair of THX Optimizer Blue Glasses, designed for adjusting Color and Tint settings, is included with the owner’s manual.
TiVo Premiere and TiVo Premiere XL boxes will be available in retail nationwide in early April. They are also available for pre-order today at tivo.com for $299.99 and $499.99 respectively.
*TiVo service is required and sold separately. Cable and Netflix subscriptions required for cable and Netflix programming, respectively and are not included in TiVo service subscription. Additional fees may apply for other broadband content. Broadband programming sources subject to availability and may change without notice.

[TiVo Premiere, XL PDFs]

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Sony announced today that the Dash would be getting a new service that will make it more appealing to those looking to stay entertained while on the go or around the house. The Dash is getting access to the Netflix streaming catalog for movies and TV episodes. Netflix is trying to get its streaming service everywhere it seems with recent additions including the PS3 and the Wii.

In case you missed the Dash the first time around, the device has a 7-inch screen and is designed to sit upright on a tablet or nightstand for viewing. It connects via WiFi and has a USB port, headphone jack, and an accelerometer. The Dash is set to ship in April for $199. This might make a cool connected device for the kitchen.

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Wii owners have some good news today with <a href="http://www.netflix.com/wiiNetflix and Nintendo announcing that this spring streaming service will be coming to the Wii console. Just like with other Netflix streaming devices, the Wii will be able to stream movies and TV shows over a broadband connection to the living room TV starting at $8.99 per month.

Netflix has to skirt the streaming exclusive with the Xbox 360 again for the Wii service. That means that users will need a Wii streaming disc to access the service rather than a baked in method via an update. The disc can be reserved for free now at the Netflix website.

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Like with the LCDs, LG’s flagship sets fall into the new Infinia series, and there are 720p and 1080p options depending on your resolution preferences.  Dual XD Engine technology upscales standard definition content to nigh-on-1080p, while several models also get USB ports for plugging in external storage.

As for the PK950 and PK750 series plasmas, they both get NetCast for Skype, YouTube, Netflix, VUDU, Napster and Yahoo! Widget support, together with DLNA streaming across a network; LG will also sell you their WiFi adapter if you’re not happy with a wired ethernet hook-up.  Those really turned off by wires can opt for the Wireless Media Hub, which can beam 1080 Full HD content up to 98 feet.

Again, no prices or specific availability as yet.

Press Release:

LG ELECTRONICS REINFORCES COMMITMENT TO PLASMA HDTVs WITH SLIM, VERSATILE DESIGN, PICTURE-ENHANCING TECHNOLOGY

New Plasmas Punctuated by Slim Bezel Depth, Enhanced Connectivity

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2010 – (Virtual Press Office) – LG Electronics underscored its commitment to the plasma HDTV category with eight new models for 2010, led by the new LG INFINIA series, which represents the best in LG’s design, technology and entertainment options.

Featuring new picture-enhancing technology and lightweight designs in a variety of screen sizes, four new plasma series – the INFINIA PK950 and PK750, as well as the PK550 and PJ350– were introduced today at the International Consumer Electronics Show, (Booth #8205).

Design and Picture Enhancement
LG has completely redesigned its plasma line for 2010, resulting in plasma sets that are slimmer and lighter than ever before. At only around two-inches in depth, the 2010 models are approximately 37 percent thinner than previous models and dramatically lighter. In the most extreme case, the weight of a 60-inch plasma HDTV was reduced by more than 40 percent to a svelte 95 pounds.

LG’s new plasma series includes stunning new designs, such as the single-layer design of the PK750 and PK950, and the “TruSlim Frame” on the PK550 and PJ350 models, which boasts a bezel width of just 0.9-inches. Wireless capability contributes to the freedom of infinite entertainment possibilities.

Setting a new standard in picture quality, the PK750 and PK950 models have achieved THX Display Certification*. These models also feature 600Hz Sub-Field Driving, a protective “Skin Glass,” Dual XD Engine and a TruBlack Filter to provide consumers with superior picture quality in a bright room. The 600Hz Sub-Field Driving improves moving picture response time using a 10 sub-field per frame driving process, ultimately offering consumers a clearer picture.

The Protective Skin Glass system reduces the gap between the outer glass and filter by 70 percent, virtually eliminating double imaging and helping to reduce glare. LG’s exclusive Dual XD Engine facilitates up-conversion of standard definition content to near high-definition quality, so consumers can enjoy improved image quality with everything they watch. It also provides extremely accurate color reproduction. The incorporation of the TruBlack Filter reduces ambient light reflection, providing consumers with better black levels and improving contrast for a sharper and more detailed picture in a bright room.

“Plasma TV technology is still considered the gold standard of picture quality by discerning home theater enthusiasts,” said Tim Alessi, director of product development, LG Electronics USA. “LG’s 2010 plasma line combines new technology, such as the TruBlack Filter and superior color accuracy, with striking new designs that are slimmer, narrower and lighter, demonstrating LG’s commitment to innovation in the plasma category.”

Content and Connectivity
The PK950* and PK750* plasma series boast a connectivity package with a variety of entertainment options including NetCast Entertainment Access™. With this NetCast feature, consumers can access an array of online content options**:
• Skype™: Newly added in 2010, this allows consumers to make free video and voice calls over the Internet to family members and friends (Separate camera and other equipment needed and sold separately).
• Netflix™: Updated with Netflix 2.0, consumers can stream thousands of movies without a PC.
• VUDU™: Allows consumers to instantly buy or rent from an extensive library of movies and TV titles, including a catalog of more than 2,000 high-definition movies – with no monthly fees or additional hardware.
• YouTube™: Offers the ability to instantly stream millions of Web videos directly from the Internet (without a personal computer).
• Napster™: Napster subscribers can now enjoy unlimited on-demand streaming music from millions of songs on their NetCast TV.
• Yahoo! Widget Engine™: Enables access to various applications called TV Widgets that allow viewers to interact with popular Internet services and online media through applications specifically tailored to the needs of the watcher, such as up-to-the minute Yahoo! News, Weather and Finance, and new widgets, including CNBC, CBS and Showtime.

LG Electronics has incorporated the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) technology across the full line of plasma models. This allows consumers to access content stored on other DLNA-certified devices within the home, such as computers, making content options almost limitless.

Providing easy options for connecting to the Internet, in addition to the wired Ethernet jack, all NetCast-enabled sets can also integrate into a wireless home network by using a USB wireless broadband adaptor (sold separately). Both PK950 and PK750 models support multi-media playback from a connected USB device including photos (JPEG), music (MP3) and video (DivX HD).

For greater convenience and flexibility in setup and installation, all LG Plasma series with NetCast offer wireless Full HD 1080p transmission from a “Wireless Media Hub” from up to 98 feet. Connecting source components, such as Blu-ray Disc players, cable or satellite boxes and video games to the media hub enables transmission to a compact receiver adaptor which attaches to the back of the TV, hidden from view. This eliminates the need for individual components to be connected directly to the TV, making for a clean and easy installation and removal of unsightly wires (Media Hub and receiver adaptor sold separately as a package).

Controls
LG’s PK950 series also incorporates a unique “Magic Wand” remote system that provides an immersive interaction with the set. This “Magic” user interface brings together menus, component controls and even embedded games which can be accessed using a simple remote that combines minimal buttons and gestures to control the on-screen activity, mirroring a “Wii-like” experience.

Plasma Expansion
A founding member of the Plasma Display Coalition, LG also introduced two other series of plasmas this week at CES. The PK550 and PJ350 models offer consumers a 1080p and 720p plasma option respectively and do not compromise on features or design. Both series boast LG’s TruSlim Frame, reducing the bezel width to only 0.9 inches, along with a slim 2-inch depth and the protective Skin Glass system for picture quality improvement. This is in addition to the many value-added core features found on virtually all LG HDTV products.

The PK550 Full HD 1080p series (available in 50-and 60-inch class sizes*) features a TruSlim Frame and slim profile for a clean, modern look. It also incorporates 600Hz Sub-Field Driving, Intelligent Sensor technology for energy savings and USB 2.0 for additional content viewing options.

The 720p PJ350 series (available in 42- and 50-inch class sizes*) also offers consumers the TruSlim Frame and slim profile for a clean, modern look, as well as 600Hz Sub-Field Driving in two display sizes. The USB 2.0 feature and three HDMI ports allow consumers to connect to a variety of entertainment devices.

Core Plasma Features
For easy self-calibration, all plasma lines feature LG’s Picture Wizard II technology, which provides on-screen reference points for key picture quality elements, such as black level, color, tint, sharpness and backlight levels. Also included in the new plasma lines are ISFccc calibration options to deliver the level of calibration filmmakers intended viewers to see. Others include:
• Intelligent Sensor: Automatically calibrates and optimizes brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the brightness and color temperature of lighting in the room – thereby saving on energy output in most circumstances.
• Clear Voice II: An enhancement to Clear Voice, this feature customizes volume settings by 12 distinct voice zoom levels without diminishing other surrounding sounds, helping ensure consumers don’t miss a single line of dialogue during action sequences.
• AV Mode II: Includes three AV modes preset to optimize picture and sound settings based on Cinema, Sports or Game content which can be easily set with the remote control.

For more information and product images, please visit LG’s online press kit at http://www.lgusa.com/cespressroom

About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances and business solutions, all under LG’s “Life’s Good” marketing theme. For more information, please visit http://www.LGusa.com.

About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 84,000 people working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2008 global sales of $44.7 billion, LG comprises of five business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning and Business Solutions. LG is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both A Global Partner of Formula 1™ and A Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit http://www.lge.com.

*PK950 60-inch class size/60-inch diagonal
*PK750 60-inch class size/60-inch diagonal
*PK550 60-inch class size/60-inch diagonal
*PK550 50-inch class size/50-inch diagonal
*PJ350 50-inch class size/50-inch diagonal
*PJ350 42-inch class size/42-inch diagonal

* Specifications subject to change without notice.
* THX certification is pending final testing and approval by THX Ltd.

** Internet connection on subscriptions required and sold separately.

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• Panasonic 103-inch Plasma HDTV: yours for $50k
• LG unveils new Skinny Frame plasma HDTVs 25mm thick

All of LG’s LED models also support DLNA streaming via ethernet, and the company will also happily sell you a USB WiFI dongle so you can cut that network cord.  LG’s NetCast sets, meanwhile, will work with the company’s Wireless Media Hub, capable of streaming 1080p up to 98 feet; again, you’ll need to buy that separately.

The LE9500 also gets LG’s “magic wand” remote, which responds to movement and gestures, and various models have USB ports for playing digital content from attached storage and PMPs.  No pricing or availability for any of the sets at present.

Press Release:

LG ELECTRONICS REDEFINES HOME ENTERTAINMENT EXPECTATIONS WITH BROAD LINE OF STUNNING, SLIM LED AND LCD HDTVs

New LED Technology Combined with Local Dimming Enhances Picture Quality, Black Levels and Utilizes Less Power

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2010 – (Virtual Press Office) – INFINIA, an innovative new family of LED LCD HDTVs from LG Electronics that delivers “freedom through infinite possibilities,” highlights the company’s 2010 lineup of LED LCD HDTVs introduced here today at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205).

LG INFINIA HDTVs (the LE9500, LE8500 and LE7500 series) combine a slim design and thin bezel with enhanced connectivity and abundant content options. Leading the way to the ultimate home entertainment experience, the 55- and 47-inch class* LE9500 sets will be LG’s first 3D-ready models available in the United States.

INFINIA is the flagship of LG’s 41-model LED LCD HDTV line – six new series of LED LCD HDTVs and five new series of LCD HDTVs. Leading these introductions are two new LED technologies – Full LED Slim and LED Plus – that provide cutting-edge picture quality. The unique backlight structure on its Full LED Slim models (LE9500 and LE8500) allows for the INFINIA line’s ultra-slim depth without sacrificing picture quality. Together, these features provide consumers with infinite possibilities in home entertainment.

“We’re removing barriers to entertainment with very slim LED LCD TVs that couple wireless connectivity with the most access to online content,” said Peter Reiner, senior vice president, marketing, LG Electronics USA. “With seamless connectivity and limitless content, LG INFINIA is resetting the standards for design and entertainment as LED LCD TVs are expected to grow to more than 20 percent of the market this year.”

“Consumers will no longer have to compromise on picture quality in order to enjoy an ultra-slim design. Together this new Full LED Slim technology and our wireless connectivity options allow consumers to ‘live borderless’ with the ultimate in content access and convenient installation,” Reiner added.

LG’s new Full LED Slim technology elevates picture quality with a slim LED structure that supports detailed local dimming of up to 240 addressable segments (on the 55-inch class LE9500), resulting in an HDTV that provides the deeper black levels and uniform picture quality which typically could not be achieved on an ultra-thin set.

The LE9500 series cabinet depth is only .92 inches with a bezel width of only 8.5mm. LG’s LED Plus technology (available on the LE7500 and LE5500 series), also improves picture quality and energy efficiency by adding a basic local dimming capability of up to 16 addressable segments.

The LE9500, LE8500 and LE7500 were all recognized with CES 2010 Innovations Awards, including the “Best of Innovations” distinction in the Online Audio/Video Content category for the LE9500.

Shattering Expectations
Broadening consumer entertainment options, LG’s latest series of HDTVs affords consumers superior picture quality, advanced energy saving options and flexible access to content-on-demand. LG’s LED LCD HDTVs challenge consumers’ current perceptions of home entertainment by illustrating what’s possible with superior display technology.

LG’s Full LED Slim series (models LE9500 and LE8500) for example, join an elite group of LED LCD HDTVs that have achieved THX Display Certification* – the industry standard for having the correct gamma, luminance, and color temperature. This certification demonstrates that select series of LG HDTVs can recreate the cinema experience at home, making the picture resemble movie theatre quality. To date, LG is the only manufacturer who has attained this designation for LCD TV in the U.S. market. LG is also the first manufacturer to include the “THX Bright Room” setting on its LED LCD HDTVs. This new feature to the THX certification program optimizes the contrast, gamma and other settings for watching movies in rooms with a lot of ambient light.

LG’s exclusive Full LED Slim technology includes detailed local dimming capability, but also enables the LE9500 and LE8500 to achieve a slim depth usually limited to conventional edge-lit models. This unique technology makes it possible for these two models to achieve the picture quality worthy of THX Display Certification and helps minimize the front bezel of the TV. This works with the single, edge-to-edge panel of glass to create a design, perfect for any home environment. Boasting a thin bezel of only 8.5mm, the LE9500 brings advanced technology into the home without being obtrusive. Available in 55-and 47-inch class sizes*, this series also incorporates TruMotion 480Hz for reduced motion blur during fast moving action sequences.

Connectivity
LG’s full line of LED LCD HDTVs ― series LE9500, LE8500, LE7500, LE5500 and LE5400 (in screen sizes 32-inch class and above) ― boast a connectivity package with a variety of entertainment options, including NetCast Entertainment Access™. With NetCast, consumers can access the following content sites for an almost endless array of entertainment options**:
• Skype™: Newly added in 2010, this allows consumers to make free video and voice calls over the Internet to family members and friends (separate camera and other equipment needed).
• Netflix™: Updated with Netflix 2.0, consumers can stream thousands of movies without a PC.
• VUDU™: Allows consumers to instantly buy or rent from an extensive library of movies and TV titles, including a catalog of more than 3,000 high-definition movies – with no monthly fees or additional hardware.
• YouTube™: Offers the ability to instantly stream millions of Web videos directly from the Internet (without a personal computer).
• Napster™: Now Napster subscribers can enjoy unlimited on-demand streaming music from millions of songs on their NetCast TV.
• Yahoo! Widgets™: Enables access to various applications called TV Widgets that allow viewers to interact with popular Internet services and online media through applications specifically tailored to the needs of the watcher, such as up-to-the minute Yahoo! News, Weather and Finance, and new widgets, including CBS, Showtime and CNBC.

LG also has incorporated the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) technology across the full line of LED models. DLNA allows consumers to access content stored on other DLNA-certified devices within the home, such as computers, making content options almost limitless.

Providing easy options for connecting to the Internet, in addition to the wired Ethernet jack, all NetCast-enabled sets can integrate into a wireless home network by using a USB wireless broadband adaptor (sold separately). All models with NetCast also support multi-media playback from a connected USB device including photos (JPEG), music (MP3) and video (DivX HD).

For greater convenience and flexibility in setup and installation, all HDTV series with NetCast also offer wireless Full HD 1080p wireless transmission from a “Wireless Media Hub” from up to 98 feet. Connecting source components, such as Blu-ray players, cable or satellite boxes and video games to the media hub enables transmission to a compact receiver adaptor, which attaches to the back of the TV, hidden from view. This eliminates the need for individual components to be connected directly to the TV, making for a clean and easy installation and removal of the unsightly wires (Media Hub and receiver adaptor sold separately as a package).

Controls
LG’s LE9500 incorporates a unique “Magic Wand” remote system that provides an immersive interaction with the set. This “Magic” user interface brings together menus, component controls and even embedded games, which can be accessed using a simple remote that combines minimal buttons and gestures to control the on-screen activity, mirroring a “Wii-like” experience.

Energy Savings
Understanding consumers’ desire for products that reduce their household energy costs, most of LG’s LED and CCFL HDTVs have a variety of energy-saving features, such as Intelligent Sensor, to automatically calibrate and optimize brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the ambient light in the room, saving on energy output under most circumstances. Additionally, ISFccc calibration options allow consumers to work with a professional to set “day” and “night” levels for optimal viewing and brightness levels. All of LG’s 2010 LED LCD series also qualify for ENERGY STAR® 4.0 certification.

In total, LG unveiled six new series of LED LCD HDTV models for consumers – creating a robust HDTV line up of advanced picture quality, wireless technology and diverse screen sizes. Full details on the series are below:

INFINIA LE9500 Series (47-, and 55-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p HDTV features uni-layer design with ultra-slim (8.5MM) bezel, Full LED Slim technology with Local Dimming, TruMotion 480Hz and THX Display Certification. Also includes NetCast Entertainment Access, DLNA, wireless broadband ready capabilities, wireless HD ready and 2 USB ports.

INFINIA LE8500 Series (47-, and 55-inch class sizes*) – Includes all the same features of the LE9500 with the exception of the 3D capability, 8.5mm bezel and the Magic Wand remote control. It also features TruMotion 240Hz technology.

INFINIA LE7500 Series (42-, 47-, and 55-inch class sizes*) – Provides consumers with a Full HD 1080p experience, TruMotion 120Hz, and LED Plus technology for local dimming capability. With NetCast Entertainment Access, Wireless HD Technology content is easier to access than ever before without the fuss of too many cords.

LE5500 Series (22-, 26-, 42-, 47-, 55-inch class sizes*) – Includes TruMotion 120Hz, LED Plus Technology, and NetCast Entertainment Access. (Except 22- and 26-inch class sizes)
LE5400 Series (32-, 42-, 47, 55, 60-inch class sizes*) – Full HD 1080p HDTV series includes LED lighting, TruMotion 120Hz, NetCast Entertainment Access, Wi-Fi ready and two USB ports.

LE5300 Series (19-, 22-, 26-, 32-, 37-inch class sizes*) – Brings the slim profile of LED technology to smaller screen sizes. Thirty-two and 37-inch class sizes are Full HD 1080p and feature TruMotion 120Hz technology, while the 19-, 22- and 26-inch class sizes provide a 720p HD picture.

Broad LCD HDTV Lines
Expanding its line of LCD HDTV options, LG also introduced five new series of CCFL LCD HDTVs, which bring consumers a variety of technology, design, and energy-saving options. These series include:

LD650 Series (47- and 55-inch class sizes*) – A Full HD 1080p HDTV, this LCD HDTV series boasts TruMotion 240Hz performance for reduced motion blur. Other features include: NetCast Entertainment Access, USB Video DLNA, and Wireless-ready technology.

LD550 Series (32-, 42-, 46-, 52-, and 60-inch class sizes*) – Also a Full HD 1080p series, these HDTVs are equipped with TruMotion 120Hz. Other features include: NetCast Entertainment Access, USB Video, DLNA, and Wireless-ready technology.

LD520 Series (32-, 42-, 47- and 55-inch class sizes*) – Combines Full HD 1080p with TruMotion 120Hz performance with a variety of screen sizes.

LD450 Series (32-, 37-, 42-, 47-inch class sizes*) – A Full HD 1080p HDTV in a variety of sizes to fit almost any room in the home.

LD350 Series (19-, 22-, 26-, and 32-inch class sizes*) – Provides smaller screen sizes for consumers in a 720p HD model.
With class sizes ranging from 19- to 60-inches, LG’s LCD HDTV models provide a variety of flat panel options for any room in the home ― most built with LG’s four core technologies:
• Picture Wizard: Provides consumers with an easy-to-use seven-step calibration process that allows them to change picture settings without hiring an expert.
• Intelligent Sensor: Automatically calibrates and optimizes brightness, contrast, white balance and color, based on the brightness and color temperature of lighting in the room – thereby saving on energy output in most circumstances. (Excluding LD350 and LD450 series and the 19, 22, 26-inch class LE5300 models)
• Clear Voice II: An enhancement to Clear Voice, this feature customizes volume settings by 12 distinct voice zoom levels without diminishing other surrounding sounds, helping ensure consumers don’t miss a single line of dialogue during action sequences.
• AV Mode II: Includes three AV modes preset to optimize picture and sound settings based on Cinema, Sports or Game content, which can be easily set with the remote control.

For more information and product images, please visit LG’s online press kit at http://www.lgusa.com/cespressroom.

About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances and business solutions, all under LG’s “Life’s Good” marketing theme. For more information, please visit http://www.LGusa.com.

About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 84,000 people working in 115 operations including 84 subsidiaries around the world. With 2008 global sales of $44.7 billion, LG comprises of five business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning and Business Solutions. LG is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both A Global Partner of Formula 1™ and A Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit http://www.lge.com.

**Internet connection and subscriptions required and sold separately.

*55LE9500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE9500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*55LE8500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE8500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*55LE7500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE7500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LE7500 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*55LE5500 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE5500 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LE5500 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*60LE5400 60-inch class/59.5-inch diagonal
*55LE5400 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LE5400 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LE5400 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*32LE5400 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*37LE5300 37-inch class/37.0-inch diagonal
*32LE5300 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*26LE5300 26-inch class/26.0-inch diagonal
*22LE5300 22-inch class/21.6-inch diagonal
*19LE5300 19-inch class/18.5-inch diagonal
*55LD650 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LD650 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*60LD550 60-inch class/59.5-inch diagonal
*52LD550 52-inch class/52.0-inch diagonal
*46LD550 46-inch class/45.9-inch diagonal
*42LD550 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*32LD550 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*55LD520 55-inch class/54.6-inch diagonal
*47LD520 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LD520 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*32LD520 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*47LD540 47-inch class/47.0-inch diagonal
*42LD540 42-inch class/42.0-inch diagonal
*37LD540 37-inch class/37.0-inch diagonal
*32LD540 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*32LD350 32-inch class/31.5-inch diagonal
*26LD350 26-inch class/26.0-inch diagonal
*22LD350 22-inch class/21.6-inch diagonal
*19LD350 19-inch class/18.5-inch diagonal

* Specifications subject to change without notice.
* THX certification is pending final testing and approval by THX Ltd.

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The service is available free to all Netflix subscribers and allows you to watch on demand programming on your TV via the PS3 just like the Xbox 360 bragged about not long ago. The catch with the PS3 service is that you need that Blu-ray disc from Netflix.

The disc is available free and if you don’t have a Netflix account you can get one for only $8.99 per month that includes unlimited streaming. The streaming feature is possible via the BD-Live feature the PS3 supports. Way to skirt that exclusive streaming clause with Microsoft Netflix!

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Streamingmedia reports that it has confirmed that Netflix streaming is coming soon to the Nintendo Wii. The publication claims to have received images from an unnamed source proving the service was coming to the Wii. Microsoft has to be mad right now after it announced exclusive streaming for the Xbox.

The PS3 streaming service requires a disc be placed in the PS3 at all times. This was evidentially done to skirt the exclusive agreement in place with Microsoft. I wonder how the Wii service will work. According to the unnamed source, the streaming service is set to hit the Wii before the end of the year. However, there is also a report that the service could be delayed until the Wii HD launches supposedly in early 2010.

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Netflix has shed a bit more light on the PS3 service for Joystiq and that odd disc that you have to request from Netflix has to be in the PS3 to access on demand content. If you are wondering why that is, it seems to be some sort of work around that will allow Netflix to not violate its contract with Microsoft.

Netflix says that an embedded version not requiring the disc will come in the form of a PS3 update in late 2010. My money says that is when the exclusive deal with Microsoft ends and the service can be embedded into the PS3 without a suit. Considering Microsoft made its announcement in September, I would say September is when we will see Netflix embedded in the PS3.

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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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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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“Eventually we want to be on all the game consoles, all the Blu-ray players, all the Internet TVs. So we are working in parallel with all of those efforts. Currently our Xbox deal is exclusive and we haven’t characterized it more than that.” Reed Hastings, CEO, Netflix

Hastings also predicted that the DVD-by-mail aspect of Netflix’s business is yet to peak, with the expectation that that will happen in around five years time.  Nonetheless, he still envisions that mailed DVDs will still be happening in 15 to 20 years, although accompanied by “huge growth” in streamed content.

This week, the company announced the results of a contest in which entrants were asked to submit better recommendation engines.  The winners took away a $1m prize fund, with Hastings saying that the new engine will be “doubling the quality of our movie recommendation and that helps our subscribers get more enjoyment from movies.”

[Thanks Peter!]

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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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“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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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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Video after the cut

As columnist Michael Gartenberg mused on these very pages yesterday, a 10-foot interface – designed to be navigated from your sofa, rather than up close as you would be when using a laptop or computer – is essential if your product is going to break into the lounge.  Along with Netflix’s new UI, Zatz shows the avatar marketplace and walks through Microsoft’s release notes.

The reason we’re so excited about the Netflix changes is that now users will be able to queue up new titles from their Xbox 360, rather than having to do that on a computer first.  The Xbox Live update will go out to all users from August 11th.

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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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The maintenance period will start on June 16th at 12:01 a.m. and last until 11:59 p.m. PDT. Since you won’t be able to access Xbox LIVE or Xbox.com, the Netflix streaming function will be disabled as well.

Specifically, you won’t be able to log into your My Xbox section of the website. Plus, the Xbox forums will be locked for that period of time, meaning you can only read posts, not make new ones. This is merely a maintenance effort. No upgrades are expected.

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The HD video downloads service now gets Zune branding, and thanks to some nifty buffering technology title playback is now “nearly instantaneous”.  Various bitrates will be offered, ranging from low quality for speedy downloads, and all the way up to 1080p with 5.1 surround sound.  Microsoft also promise a “disc in the drive” user experience, with glitch-free fast forward and rewind.  The US, UK and Ireland get full Netflix access or on-demand Sky TV, region permitting, while general movie and TV downloads are available in the existing eight countries together with ten new: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.

As for Facebook integration, not only will Xbox 360 users be able to access their profiles, update statuses, view pictures and leave comments, the system will integrate with Facebook Connect to share updates, achievements and even screenshots from games.  The first title to support the functionality will be Tiger Woods PGA TOUR.  Finally, Last.fm will deliver streaming music through free, personalized radio stations, and share them with other contacts.  Users will require Xbox LIVE Gold membership to access it.

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What’s still missing is Netflix support, for either streaming movies or TV shows, which was added to the OS X version of the app back in December 2008.  Hulu functionality is the same pseudo-workaround as added earlier this month, which uses a combination of RSS feeds and an integrated Mozilla-based browser engine to display the streaming service’s content.

Boxee remains a free app, available – in varying states of development – for Linux, Windows, OS X and AppleTV.  Linux users may be able to access this latest version through the Update Manager tool on Ubuntu systems.

[via Slashdot]

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To deliver Hulu and Netflix, Digeo have turned to the PlayOn app.  This installs on a PC on the same network, and shuttles content to the DRV; usually the software retails for around $40 on its own.  Rhapsody, meanwhile, will require a subscription, but there’s a 30-day trial for new users.

Finally, Moxi gets Flickr viewer support with a “Mosaic” browser.  That’s a neat way of saying that it tiles all the thumbnails and you get to page through them.  DLNA, meanwhile, will let you view streamed content from a variety of media-server NAS devices.

The software update is free for existing owners.  A new Moxi HD DVR is priced at around $800 for the 500GB model, though there’s no ongoing monthly fees.

Press Release:

Digeo® Releases Major Enhancements to Flagship Moxi® HD DVR

Moxi® Entertainment Experience Gets Even Better with PlayOn™ Internet Video; Rhapsody®
Music; Home Theater Controls; and Enhanced Photos, Internet Services and DLNA-Certified™
Home Networking

KIRKLAND, WA – April 09, 2009 – Digeo, Inc. today announced new features and enhancements to the
Moxi® High Definition Digital Video Recorder (HD DVR), further advancing the world’s best DVR. The
Moxi HD DVR has new services available directly from the on-screen menu including Internet video from
YouTube, Netflix, Hulu™ and more streaming directly to the TV through MediaMall Technologies’
PlayOn™ media server software as well as the streaming digital music service from Rhapsody®. The
Moxi HD DVR also now includes eControls, a home automation feature that allows users to customize the
home theater experience by adjusting lighting and other Z-Wave supported products. The Flickr® online
photo service and MoxiNet Internet browser were also enhanced, and Moxi is now certified to support the
DLNA® standard for improved home networking.

These new services will be available automatically to customers with a Moxi HD DVR via a software
upgrade at no additional charge from Digeo.

Additionally, as part of this new functionality, the company is offering existing and new Moxi customers a
PlayOn® license key (value $39.99) free for a limited time, as well as a free 30-day Rhapsody trial (value:
$12.99).

“In the current economic climate, people are more focused on at-home entertainment options and on
getting the most out of their HD investments,” said Greg Gudorf, CEO, Digeo. “The world’s best HD DVR
now delivers even more valuable entertainment services for the best home entertainment experience.”

The Moxi HD DVR is designed to appeal to the most demanding digital cable entertainment enthusiasts.
With its native HD interface and Emmy® award-winning Moxi Menu, dual tuners, and up to 75-hours of HD
recording space (up to 300 hours at standard definition, and expandable well beyond with an external
eSATA drive), the Moxi HD DVR makes it effortless for consumers to discover, experience and share high
definition media from their digital cable provider, PCs on the home network and the Internet.

Adding to an extensive list of advanced features and services, the enhancements announced today as
part of the Moxi HD DVR Spring 2009 software release include:

• PlayOn – This media server software currently provides access to Internet videos from YouTube,
Hulu, CBS, Netflix, CNN, ESPN and more through the Moxi HD DVR from a PC on the home
network. Video formats are automatically converted so Moxi users can watch Internet video
directly on their widescreen HDTV.

• Rhapsody® – The leading on-demand digital music service is now available through the Moxi HD
DVR, allowing users to easily listen to any one of more than 7 million songs from all the major
record labels and hundreds of smaller independent labels. Rhapsody delivers complete control
over the music experience, helping users to easily find and play full length tracks, build playlists of
favorites or listen to Rhapsody’s professionally programmed genre & artist channels. Starting
today, Rhapsody and Digeo are bringing music without limits to every user of the Moxi HD DVR.

• Media Link – Certified to support the DLNA home networking standard, Media Link connects the
TV or home entertainment system to PCs on a home network. Moxi users can easily stream
digital movies, videos, music and photos from their PCs for viewing or listening from the comfort
of their home entertainment environment.

• eControls – Moxi users can now manage their home entertainment environment through the Moxi
menu to set the mood. Users can adjust most Z-Wave-certified products such as lighting (e.g.,
turning sets of lights on, off or dimming), control volume and power on AV devices, as well as
monitor IP baby-cams or outside cameras, all from the remote control.

• Mosaic – A new browsing feature for the Flickr® online photo service available through the Moxi
menu, Mosaic allows users to rapidly scroll up, down and across their photos as they are
displayed as mosaic tiles on the display.

• MoxiNet –Moxi registered users can now bookmark their favorite websites at Moxi.com and
browse them on their home entertainment display using the Moxi remote as a virtual mouse. This
expands upon MoxiNet’s quick access to news, sports scores, movie times, weather and other
information from the Internet.

For more details, including details of the PlayOn license key offer, technical specifications and screen
images of the Moxi HD DVR expanded feature set, please visit: www.moxi.com. You can also follow Moxi
on Twitter at www.twitter.com/moxi_hd or on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/c9vuxf

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Even though the price for renting standard disc rentals will remain the same, the Blu-ray hike is an extra $3 a month. If this is an outrage to you, however, you can disable your Blu-ray rentals and rent standard discs only. The new prices will be effective beginning on April 27.

So, why on earth is Netflix upping their prices? Supposedly, Blu-ray discs cost a lot more than standard discs, so they will be using the added revenue to add additional Blu-ray titles to their library.

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Whenever you get a movie from Netflix, the application will update your Facebook account with the news of a new film’s impending arrival. And when you get around to watching the flick, you can rate it and your friends can see what you thought of it.

It’s a pretty convenient way to keep track of what you’ve seen and what you thought of it and let people know about it all in one swoop. And don’t worry: if you don’t want people to know you rented Twilight again you can choose what your friends can and can’t see. The best part of this though is that your friends with Netflix can simply add movies that sound interesting on your news feed to their queues.

[via CrunchGear]

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Hunt said that even though some users experience better downloads on their Xbox 360s than their PCs (or the other way around), there is no discrimination between the two formats. Some movies might stream slower than others, too. It all just depends on the current connection and if there’s congestion.

So, what was thought to be a big expose turned out to be nothing, really. But should we take their word for it? Or is their something devious afoot? I don’t think so, but what do you think? Since users pay to stream movies through Netflix, it wouldn’t make much sense to throttle, but I’d be interested in hearing your theories.

[via CrunchGear]

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Obviously the user would have to already subscribe to Netflix as well as connect their Wii to the internet.  It’s unclear whether subscribers would be able to search, add or queue titles directly from the Wii Netflix interface, or if that – like on many streamers - would have to be done on a separate PC.  Considering the Wii has a browser, we’d presume you could manage the list directly from the console.

It seems a little churlish to ask for $9.99 for a software DVD when Nintendo and Netflix could potentially release a firmware update to enable the functionality, but functionality gift-horses should perhaps not be looked in the mouth.  No official word from Netflix or Nintendo on whether this is destined to be a commercially-available service or merely survey fodder.

[via Engadget]

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For feature, the LG BD370 covers most of the Blu-ray basic from BD-live/Profile 2.0, Full HD, advanced HD audio decoding with integrated 7.1 channel audio outputs, to network connectivity featuring both Wired and WIFI hub.

What sets it apart from competition is its Netcast entertainment system that’s offering not only the existing Netflix movie streaming, but the ability to stream CinemaNow and YouTube online content with plan to include Yahoo! Video. Nothing ground-breaking here though, there are plenty of online streaming step-top boxes out there from Tivo, Vudu to Xbox 360, but the LG gets your an extra Blu-ray desk at $299. It’s a sweet deal!

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The modification is based on Mediamall’s Playon software, and requires a separate computer to be running that software.  The LINK then gobbles up the Playon stream, via the XBMC media center software, and shuffles it over to your TV screen.

Neuros admit it’s a temporary solution, but they’re working on their own official Netflix plugin.  Until then, they’re bundling up XBMC into the next scheduled release of the LINK shipping software, which should streamline this workaround a little.

[via Gear Diary]

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Back in December, we got words on the LG Netflix-compliant Blu-ray players to be featured more online streaming contents, and as promised, LG delivered YouTube to its BD300 Blu-ray player with latest BD.8.16.537 software update. Owners of BD300 players have reported successful upgrades in community forum here.

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Both BD370 and BD390 feature LG’s “NetCast Entertainment Access” with ability to stream online video contents from CinemaNow, YouTube to the growing collection of HD streaming titles from Netflix. The former appears little changed from current BD300 model while the latter offers better performance with a host of upgrades from a built-in WiFi, 1G of onboard permanent memory and 7.1-channel analogue outputs. Both players have not formally priced out, but are estimated to get $299 and $399 prices release, respectively.

We’ve seen Netflix support added to the game console Xbox 360, TiVo DVRs and Blu-ray decks from Samsung, and the latter has added another pair of BD-P4600 (wall-mountable) and Bd-P3600 with additional Pandora network access. If you’re planning to get a “connected” Blu-ray, both the LG BD390 and Samsung BD-P4600 are one to watch.

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Samsung and Yahoo! are working with eBay and CBS, among others, creating TV Widgets – compact, web-enabled applications – that will access video and other content.  Different widgets will be available to download, built on the fifth-generation of the Konfabulator platform, with a new GUI designed specially for TVs.  In the future, social media widgets and streaming TV shows and movies are planned.

The GUI shows up as a bar at the bottom of the display, scrolled left and right using the remote.  New widgets can be downloaded direct from the TV itself, rather than requiring a computer, and media browsed through this menu can then be maximized to the full display.  The sets can also access Full HD - wirelessly with WiFi, WHDI, Wireless USB, Mobile WiMAX and other standards - together with Netflix streaming and Pandora intelligent online radio.

The Samsung Yahoo! Interactive TV experience will begin to appear on HDTVs available from the company this year, including the new Luxia LED TV range.

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NetCast does not require a computer; instead, the HDTV itself has an ethernet port and connects directly to a broadband connection (with or without a router).  Select functionality, however, is set up through a web interface – such as Netflix queueing, or organizing Flickr or Picasa slideshows – for later viewing on the sets. 

In addition, NetCast is DLNA compatible and supports streaming of JPEG images and MP3 audio files from networked computers.  Samsung recently announced a similar partnership with Yahoo!, bring the company’s Widget Engine onto models in Samsung’s HDTV range. 

Press Release:

LG ELECTRONICS LAUNCHES BROADBAND HDTVs WITH ‘NETCAST™ ENTERTAINMENT ACCESS’

New Content Providers Yahoo!®, Netflix, YouTube Give Consumers Freedom to Access Streaming Movies, News, Weather, Photos and More Directly to the TV

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2009 – LG Electronics today announced two new HDTV series with NetCast™ Entertainment Access that offer instant streaming of movies, TV shows, video, and a Widget-based user experience via Ethernet connectivity directly to the television. Through new alliances with Yahoo!, Netflix, and YouTube™, consumers can instantly stream an almost endless catalogue of entertainment from viral videos and movies to photo sharing Web sites without the need of a separate PC*.

“LG’s new NetCast Entertainment Access capability broadens the user experience to include not only entertainment content, but also up-to-the minute news, stock information, weather updates, photo management and more by simply using the TV’s remote control,” said Peter Reiner, senior vice president, marketing and strategy, LG Electronics USA. “With these and future content relationships, LG continues to break the mold with innovative technologies designed to enhance consumers’ viewing experience.”

LG’s HDTVs with NetCast Entertainment Access (47- and 42-inch class* LH50 LCD models and 60- and 50-inch class* PS80 plasma models) and its full line of LCD and plasma products are on display this week at the 2009 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) – Booth #8214, Central Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center. (See separate release for more information.)

Yahoo! Widget Engine: Content When You Want It, Where You Want It
The Yahoo! Widget Engine enables the discovery and enjoyment of a new class of interactive applications called TV Widgets. TV Widgets enable viewers to interact with popular Internet services and online media through applications specifically tailored to the needs of the television watcher such as up-to-the minute Yahoo! News, Weather and Finance.

Through Flickr®, Yahoo!’s online photo management and sharing application, consumers can enjoy their latest family and friend photos on the big screen. Accessible through a Yahoo! TV Widget, consumers can access this unique photo sharing site to run slideshows and view individual photos.

YouTube: Access to Millions of User-Generated Videos
As a leading online video community for people to discover, watch, and share originally created videos, YouTube allows consumers unlimited access to web based videos. Through LG’s alliance with this prolific online video community, consumers can instantly stream millions of Web videos directly from the Internet for viewing on their television. Key benefits include:

• Unlimited access to millions of videos on topics such as current events, instructional videos for hobbies and interests, comedic and viral videos
• Easy Searching, thumbnail previews and multiple screen size viewing options

Netflix: Instant Streaming Directly Through the TV
LG’s HDTVs with NetCast Entertainment Access will join the LG BD300 Network Blu-ray Disc Player as an industry first, providing the ability to stream movies instantly from Netflix, offering consumers a variety of ways to enjoy more than 12,000 choices of movies and TV episodes. Netflix members owning one of these devices pay as little as $8.99 for a monthly subscription for unlimited streaming and DVD rentals.

Instant streaming content from Netflix to the HDTV will rely on a broadband connection and Queue-based user interface. Netflix members will use the Netflix Web site to add movies and TV episodes to their individual instant Queues. Those choices will automatically be displayed on members’ TVs and available to watch instantly through the HDTV. Once selected, movies will begin playing in as little as 30 seconds.
With the accompanying remote control, Netflix members will be able to browse and make selections right on the TV screen and also have the ability to read synopses and rate movies. In addition, they will have the option of fast-forwarding and rewinding the video stream.

PC Content Sharing
Users can also choose to incorporate the NetCast-equipped HDTV into a home network to access JPEG photos or MP3 music files stored on their home PC to create slide shows and listen to music on their big screen.

About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances and business solutions, all under LG’s “Life’s Good” marketing theme. For more information, please visit www.LGusa.com.

About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications, employing more than 82,000 people working in 114 operations including 82 subsidiaries around the world. With annual worldwide revenues exceeding $40 billion, LG Electronics comprises five business units: Home Entertainment, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning, Business Solutions and Mobile Communications. LG is one of the world’s leading producers of mobile handsets, flat panel TVs, air conditioners, front-loading washing machines, optical storage products, DVD players and home theater systems. For more information, please visit www.lge.com.

About Yahoo!
Yahoo! Inc. (NASDAQ:YHOO) is a leading global Internet brand and one of the most trafficked Internet destinations worldwide. Yahoo! is focused on powering its communities of users, advertisers, publishers, and developers by creating indispensable experiences built on trust. Yahoo! is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California. For more information, visit pressroom.yahoo.com or the company’s blog, Yodel Anecdotal.

For more information on Yahoo! Connected TV please visit http://connectedtv.yahoo.com

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