Engadget HD

Engadget HD Podcast 287 - 02.21.2012

Trent Wolbe — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:35:00 EDT

Welcome to a special President's Day Engadget HD podcast (ok, not that special) where we kick things off with last week's hot button topic: universal pricing. Is a forced even playing field between online and B&M retailers fair, or harmful to the consumer? You guys sounded off in the comments, so we took another look at Samsung's plan for its 2012 HDTVs. We've also got plenty of HTPC news, with InfiniTV access on more platforms, a new round of arguments between Boxee and the NCTA and Kinect for Media Center. It's also time to say hello to Aereo -- even if we think it may not be long for this world -- before taking a look at the latest receivers from Onkyo and what's on TV this week.

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Hosts: Ben Drawbaugh (@bjdraw), Richard Lawler (@rjcc)

Producer: Trent Wolbe

00:23:45 - BBC 3D London Olympics plans include one live sporting event, daily highlights
00:28:43 - Premium cable TV comes to XBMC, GoodPlayer and more via InfiniTV 4 tuner
00:34:50 - Boxee and the NCTA debate if ClearQAM is good for us
00:40:00 - March Madness streams to more platforms in 2012, but not everything is free
00:42:56 - Blockbuster On Demand pulls back from TiVo and others, is it on its way out?
00:47:15 - HBO Go rolls out to most Samsung Smart HDTVs -- but not through all providers
00:52:46 - Xbox 360 system update gets its colors in order, makes it mandatory
00:55:01 - Kinect for Media Center released, why not wave and shout at your HTPC?
00:57:03 - Comcast slows the flood of video customer losses in Q4 2011
00:58:24 - Time Warner Cable's TWC TV launches for PC, brings live TV streaming to the desktop
01:01:04 - Aereo puts TV antennas in the cloud, streams OTA broadcasts on the internet
01:05:04 - Onkyo debuts new entry level receivers, HTIBs for 2012
01:09:30 - Must See HDTV (February 20th - 26th)

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Engadget HD Podcast 287 - 02.21.2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:35:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Samsung / Blockbuster reportedly sign streaming deal in Oz, US and Europe next?

Edgar Alvarez — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:31:00 EDT

We know Samsung's been ramping up its home entertainment arsenal. Now, recent intel acquired by the folks at SmartHouse suggests that the Korean outfit's about to dive into deeper waters, after reportedly striking a deal in Australia. The pact, that's yet to become official, would give the manufacturer access to the plethora of films available from your favorite blue-and-yellow video store, which could then be streamed to your beloved Galaxy handset or Tab, as well as Sammy-branded Smart TVs, Blu-ray players and laptops. Furthermore, the report claims Samsung's got a friendly billing system in the works that'd allow easy access to the content on your devices. It's expected to hit US and Euro shores "as early as September." Until then you'll have to stick with the good ol' Redbox kiosks.

Samsung / Blockbuster reportedly sign streaming deal in Oz, US and Europe next? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:31:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink TNW | Smarthouse | Email this | Comments

Patent application hints at Voice Actions for Google TV

Terrence O'Brien — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:08:00 EDT

Android on your phone can send texts, perform searches, set alarms and execute plenty of other tasks with little more than a simple voice command. Google TV is, for all intents and purposes, just Android blown up to fill your 42-inch TV -- so it would only make sense that Voice Actions might one day come to the Mountain View-branded set top solution. Well, a patent application filed back in September hints that just such a thing is on its way. Rather than require new hardware though, an Android phone would act as an intermediary, passing commands to the Google TV device. An added bonus to being able to ask your TV "when is Seinfeld on?" is that, since the phone is actually passing on the instructions, you can control your set remotely. As an example the filing suggests using GPS to determine when a user is within a quarter mile of their home, then turning on the TV and tuning in to whatever station happens to be airing The Soup Nazi. Hit up the source for all the details.

Patent application hints at Voice Actions for Google TV originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:08:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Patently Apple, PCWorld | USPTO | Email this | Comments

Comcast to launch Xfinity Streampix streaming video service, challenge Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon (update)

Michael Gorman — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:54:00 EDT

It was only a matter of time, right? The Wall Street Journal reports that Comcast is rolling out a VOD competitor for Amazon, Netflix and Hulu so it can grab a slice of the streaming video pie. Called Xfinity Streampix, it brings shows from NBC and ABC, along with movies from Sony Pictures and Warner Bros. Scheduled to launch this Thursday, the service will be rolled in for free with some existing cable packages and available on its own for $4.99 a month. For your five bucks, you get access to a back catalog of shows and movies on any internet-capable device, though, naturally we don't know exactly how much content will be available when it goes live. What we do know is that price point puts Streampix well beneath the $7.99 asking price of its competition, so here's hoping a VOD price war ensues.

Update: Check out the official PR after the break for more details, including a list of the content coming to Streampix and Comcast's plans to bring VOD to the Xbox 360 and Android.

Continue reading Comcast to launch Xfinity Streampix streaming video service, challenge Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon (update)

Comcast to launch Xfinity Streampix streaming video service, challenge Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:54:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Wall Street Journal | Comcast Voices | Email this | Comments

Engadget Giveaway: win one of two PlayStation Vitas, courtesy of Tanga!

Brad Molen — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EDT

This week's contest is all about the hotness, and if a brand new PlayStation Vita doesn't do the trick, we don't know what will. We have two WiFi / 3G units to hand out to our awesome readers, and it's all made possible by Tanga. The e-tailer is known for offering tech magazine subscriptions on the cheap as well as plenty of other daily deals. So take a peek, browse through the rules and fire off a quick comment to enter the giveaway!

Continue reading Engadget Giveaway: win one of two PlayStation Vitas, courtesy of Tanga!

Engadget Giveaway: win one of two PlayStation Vitas, courtesy of Tanga! originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Must See HDTV (February 20th - 26th)

Richard Lawler — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:09:00 EDT

We may be living in the post-football era, but between Jeremy Lin, hockey and the Daytona 500 there's plenty for sports fans to chew on this weekend. Of course that's not all there is and there will likely be even more drama at the Academy Awards. Look below for the highlights this week, followed after the break by our weekly listing of what to look out for in TV, Blu-ray and videogames.

Fringe
We've completely lost count of the alternate universes and timelines at play in Fox's show at this point, but for sci-fi on network TV there aren't a lot of other options. The winter finale is this week and we're pretty sure Walter will say something funny, Pacey/Peter will figure something out at the last second and odds are 50/50 one of the Olivias will shoot someone.
(February 24th, Fox, 9PM)

NBA All-Star Weekend / Linsanity
The Jeremy Lin movement enters its third week and shows little sign of slowing down. Sure the New york Knicks point guard finally lost a game, but he put up some monster stats against the defending NBA champs over the weekend, and has already seen his name penciled in to Friday night's Rising Stars game as a result. It's a toss up over which game is more anticipated, that one or the main ASG Sunday -- or is it the Lin vs. LeBron showdown Thursday night?
(All Weekend, TNT)

Academy Awards
The 84th Annual Academy Awards take place Sunday night and we're figuring this will takes its place on the list of Twitter/TV events, so either work on your @Tront style jokes or just plan to do something else for a few hours. We'll be watching to see who walks away with the Best Picture statue.
(February 26th, ABC, 8:30PM)

Continue reading Must See HDTV (February 20th - 26th)

Must See HDTV (February 20th - 26th) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:09:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM

Ben Drawbaugh — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:15:00 EDT

It's Monday, and almost as regular an occurrence as the day itself, we're here to help by letting you listen into the recording booth when the Engadget HD podcast goes to mp3 at 5:30PM. Please be a part of it by reviewing the list of topics after the break, then participating in the live chat as you listen in.

Continue reading Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM

Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 5:30PM originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ceton officially drops the InfiniTV 4 price to $199

Ben Drawbaugh — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:37:00 EDT

A device that was selling for around $600 on eBay just two years ago, is now officially priced at $199 -- the second $100 price drop in the past eight months -- and is available immediately from some of your favorite online retailers. That means both the USB and PCIe versions of the CableCARD tuner that can record four HD channels at once, cost a mere $50 per tuner. While this makes it the cheapest per-tuner CableCARD tuner ever available, the dual tuner Hauppauge WinTV DCR-2650 at $149 retail ($112 street) still requires the lowest total entry cost into the PC CableCARD tuner market. We've come a long way since ATI offered a single tuner for $299, but the still-pricey cards make it easy to understand understand why TV manufacturers and other set-top box makers, like Boxee, can't hide the price of a CableCARD tuner in the cost of their products.

Continue reading Ceton officially drops the InfiniTV 4 price to $199

Ceton officially drops the InfiniTV 4 price to $199 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:37:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GTVHacker tool brings Sony Google TVs root access, full Flash streaming

Richard Lawler — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:44:00 EDT

Early Google TV adopters looking for root access can get it easily on their Sony units, thanks to the just released GTVHacker Sony Recovery Downgrader & Rebooter. Unlike brute force hacks we've seen so far for the Revue, this is an all-software method that requires (only) four 512MB or larger USB sticks to get the job done. Once completed the developers indicate their unsigned kernel includes a modified Flash plugin that will let users stream all the Hulu and other network TV content that has otherwise been denied the Google TV, plus other tweaks like optional support for NTFS formatted drives. It disables automatic updates, but users can still switch back to the stock software by resetting the unit in recovery mode. Once you've dug up your ~~Atari Jaguar~~ Sony Google TV remote, hit the links below for all the software and instructions necessary to get the job done although as always, YMMV.

GTVHacker tool brings Sony Google TVs root access, full Flash streaming originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:44:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | GTV Hacker Forum, GTV Hacker blog | Email this | Comments

Sky Go finally available on a few Android devices, brings some new channels

Richard Lawler — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:27:00 EDT

It's taken about eight months, but Sky Go is finally available on select Android handsets (HTC Desire, HTC Desire S, HTC Desire HD, HTC Incredible, HTC Sensation, Samsung Galaxy S, Samsung Galaxy S II) after launching on iOS last year. Beyond the limited hardware support, there's a few other caveats to be aware of -- the app is only supported on Android 2.2 and 2.3, so when Ice Cream Sandwich hits some of those phones soon, users will be forced to choose between upgrading or keeping Sky Go working. Another drawback is that due to DRM, the app is blocked from working on rooted devices. Once users have jumped through those hoops though, there will also be even more content available for viewing on all platforms including Sky Atlantic, Sky 1, Sky Living and Sky Arts 1, before F1 coverage launches in March. Speaking of F1 -- Sky also announced its new channel will bring 5.1 surround sound to UK and Ireland broadcasts for the first time this season.

Continue reading Sky Go finally available on a few Android devices, brings some new channels

Sky Go finally available on a few Android devices, brings some new channels originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 10:27:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Android Market, Sky | Email this | Comments

Premium cable TV comes to XBMC, GoodPlayer and more via InfiniTV 4 tuner

Ben Drawbaugh — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:47:00 EDT

In the olden days of CableCARD circa 2004, only a select few devices and software could leverage the card's power to watch premium cable TV, but not today. Today just about any adventurous dev can take advantage of the fact that an OCUR is a network tuner and access premium cable TV -- as long as the content is marked Copy Freely, that is. The latest to unleash that power is XBMC which also helps extend the functionality to iOS via GoodPlayer and Buzz Player as well as any UPnP client with the help of a Serviio media server. Essentially this custom code is acting as a middleman, but fulfilling the dream that any software could directly control and stream from a CableCARD tuner like the InfiniTV 4 is within reach. The only drawback left is that even with the current sale price of the InfiniTV 4 at $199, it still isn't as low as the cost of entry of something like a ClearQAM tuner.

Premium cable TV comes to XBMC, GoodPlayer and more via InfiniTV 4 tuner originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink The Digital Lifestyle | XBMC Forum, The Digital Media Zone | Email this | Comments

Samsung spinning off LCD business

Sean Buckley — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EDT

When the Korea Exchange asked Sammy about rumors of an impending spin-off of its LCD business, the firm said it was a move it was considering. Well, consider it done -- today Samsung announced it would be launching Samsung Display on April 1st, 2012 with $6.6 billion in its coffers. The move is still waiting for shareholder approval, but Donggun Park, executive vice president of Samsung's LCD business, seems optimistic. "The spin-off will allow us to make quicker business decisions and respond to our clients' needs more swiftly." This decision comes just months after Sammy agreed to take Sony's stake in S-LCD, turning the former display partnership into a fully owned subsidiary. Hit the break for the official (machine translated) press release.

Continue reading Samsung spinning off LCD business

Samsung spinning off LCD business originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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March Madness streams to more platforms in 2012, but not everything is free

Richard Lawler — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:19:00 EDT

Last year CBS and Turner Sports brought every game of the NCAA Division 1 Men's Basketball Tournament home in HD on four cable channels, and streaming for free to PCs and iOS devices. While the broadcast plans remain the same this year, if you want to stream the 41 games broadcast on cable networks then you'll need to subscribe to an affiliated TV provider (all the major guys except Time Warner) and log into the TNT, TBS, or TruTV website on your Windows PC or Mac. For the other 41 games broadcast on CBS, CBSSports.com is your (free) online resource. Live streaming on mobiles (over WiFi or 3G) has been extended to the Android platform for the first time, however after being offered for free last year the rebranded March Madness Live app will cost $3.99 this time around, which is still less than the $10 it cost in 2010. Check out the press release after the break for all the details on what's viewable where -- cord cutting sports fans will want to make some alternate arrangements.

Continue reading March Madness streams to more platforms in 2012, but not everything is free

March Madness streams to more platforms in 2012, but not everything is free originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:19:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Turner Sports | Email this | Comments

Blockbuster On Demand pulls back from TiVo and others, is it on its way out?

Richard Lawler — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 19:16:00 EDT

From Zatz Not Funny comes word that TiVo owners are being notified their access to Blockbuster On Demand will come to an end March 31st, ending a run originally announced three years before. While this certainly affects TiVo's ability to offer the one box to search multiple services idea introduced with the Premiere, it could be more telling about Blockbuster's plans for the current incarnation of its internet movie service. As forum posters on TiVo Community point out, the list of supported devices is rapidly shrinking, with Vizio and Western Digital WD TV Live owners getting their own Dear John letters only a year or so after the app originally rolled out. Currently, the list of connected TV devices is limited exclusively to Samsung HDTVs and Blu-ray players, plus some cellphones and tablets. Once upon a time, Blockbuster desired an On Demand presence in "nearly every connected device" -- not to mention "major market presence" for the now Redbox-owned Express kiosks -- but after its purchase by Dish Network clearly those days are over. Now the only question is if / when we'll see a new service that better fits with the already announced Movie Pass package and what devices it might work on.

Blockbuster On Demand pulls back from TiVo and others, is it on its way out? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 19:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Zatz Not Funny, TiVo Community | Email this | Comments

Onkyo debuts new entry level receivers, HTIBs for 2012

Richard Lawler — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:29:00 EDT

For 2012, Onkyo is expanding its lineup with four new entry level receivers and two HTIB all-in-one packages. The receivers all pack the brand new InstaPrevue (PiP preview of each HDMI source with fast switching) and MHL, while the three networked models are the first with access to MP3tunes cloud stored songs, as well as a number of other services including Spotify. The top of the line TX-NR616 ($699, April, pictured above) packs the most power and rocks a THX Select2 Plus stamp of quality and, along with the step down TX-NR515 ($599, March) has Qdeo video processing that scale video up to 4K res and output audio on 7.2 channels. On the HTIBs, the 7.1 HT-S5500 ($649, March) and 5.1 HT-S3500 bring all the usual features wrapped around a new "Wide Range Amplifier Technology" that it claims reduces signal noise while still pumping up the power through discrete output-stage components. The full list of specs, prices and shipping windows are in the press releases after the break, hit the source links for a few more pictures.

Continue reading Onkyo debuts new entry level receivers, HTIBs for 2012

Onkyo debuts new entry level receivers, HTIBs for 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:29:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Missing Remote | Onkyo (receivers), Onkyo (HTIB) | Email this | Comments

Distro Issue 28: A slew of device reviews and a look back at CP+ 2012

Christopher Trout — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:15:00 EDT

Apple's kitty cat-flavored OS refresh may have dominated the news this week, but it was a deluge of product reviews that kept the wheels spinning at Distro HQ. Issue 28 is one of our heftiest yet, featuring Sony's stateside PS Vita, Ainovo's $99 Ice Cream Sandwich tablet, Motorola's QWERTY kin, the Droid 4, the AT&T version of Samsung's ample Galaxy Note and LG's fashionable Prada Phone. Shaking things up a bit, Zach Honig travels to Yokohama, Japan to bring you the biggest breakouts from the 2012 CP+ Camera and Photo Imaging Show. And, to round it all out, we've got a healthy helping of content you won't see anywhere else, like Ross Rubin's Switched On, Donald Melanson's Recommended Reading, our Q&A with Netbooknews' Nicole Scott and a lesson on "How to Be Happy" by cartoonist Shannon Wheeler.

Distro Issue 28 PDF
Distro on the iTunes App Store
Distro in the Android Market
Distro APK (for sideloading)
Like Distro on Facebook
Follow Distro on Twitter

Distro Issue 28: A slew of device reviews and a look back at CP+ 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | iTunes, Android Market | Email this | Comments

HBO Go rolls out to most Samsung Smart HDTVs -- but not through all providers

Richard Lawler — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 21:38:00 EDT

It's been nearly a year since Samsung first announced HBO Go access would be coming to its Smart TVs, and today the company announced on all forms of social media (Twitter, Facebook, Google+ -- there may be a YouTube video out there somewhere) it's finally available. Most should be familiar with HBO's TV Everywhere offering that opens its archives to users on various internet devices and has already been well received on iOS, Android and Roku platforms. The official HBO Go Twitter account mentions news on the Xbox 360 client is "coming soon" but for now subscribers can just grab the app and start watching -- with a few caveats.

For reasons not mentioned, the HBO Go app doesn't play nicely with every Smart TV, with access available on all 2010 and 2011 models with the exception of several from last year (listed after the break). Also key to remember is that not every TV provider has given its blessing to allows customers access to HBO Go in the living room, so it seems Comcast, ~~DirecTV~~ and Time Warner customers are still out of luck. If you've got the right combo of service provider and hardware go forth and download from the Samsung Apps marketplace right now, we'll be busy trying to figure out where the old episodes of Arli$$ are.

Update: As a few readers pointed out, DirecTV customers actually are able to access the service on Samsung TVs, and HBO representatives confirmed they should have access to the service, contrary to the list posted on the HBO support site. Stream on satellite subscribers, stream on, and if you notice any other discrepancies in the official lists let us know in the comments.

Continue reading HBO Go rolls out to most Samsung Smart HDTVs -- but not through all providers

HBO Go rolls out to most Samsung Smart HDTVs -- but not through all providers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 21:38:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Tech of the Hub | Samsung | Email this | Comments

BBC 3D London Olympics plans include one live sporting event, daily highlights

Richard Lawler — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:53:00 EDT

The Beeb has finally detailed its plans for 3D broadcasts during the London 2012 Olympic Games this summer, and unfortunately for fans of the technology, the content available for live viewing will be pretty limited. The BBC's site lists the Opening / Closing ceremonies and the men's 100m dash for its experimental coverage... and that's it. At the end of each day a "highlights package" will be available, but we're still not sure what other sports will be included yet. This approach harkens back to NBC's 24 hour tape delayed HD broadcasts of 2004, and according to director Roger Mosey, is mostly due to limited capacity. If the BBC is using one of its HD channels for the free-to-air 3D broadcast, then it takes away an HD channel for another event at the same time, so the ceremonies have the advantage of not blacking out any other coverage. In the US, it's possible things could be different if 3D broadcasts are made available on a dedicated events channel as Versus nee NBC SportsTalk has done before, but we'll wait to hear what NBC has planned and hope Usain Bolt doesn't false start again.

BBC 3D London Olympics plans include one live sporting event, daily highlights originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | BBC, Roger Mosey | Email this | Comments

Samsung's 2012 HDTV family prices leaked?

Mat Smith — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:06:00 EDT

In the market for a HDTV upgrade? Then you may be interested in hearing how much you'll need to pony up for Samsung's new screens. HDGuru's got its hands on a whole list of purported MAPs (minimum advertised prices) for its 2012 range and, sadly, they're slightly pricier than last year's models. You will, however, be getting some extra bang for your buck; its latest top-end sets include built-in cameras, speech recognition and gesture-sensing remotes. The LED LCD 8000 series of Smart TVs maxes out at 75 inches ($7,299), "shrinking" down to a 46 inch model ($2,699). These all pack a 3D screen alongside dual-core processors for TV-based apps. Meanwhile, if you're in the market for a plasma, expect to pay around $2,249 for the 51 inch model with the same specifications outlined above, while a 64 inch vista will necessitate 3,399 notes. Prices aren't set in stone just yet and could change depending on competitor's pricing ahead of hitting the shelves. We're hoping any potential price adjustments will be in the downward direction. Also of note: in 2012 you may not be able to find deep discounts at online shops like Amazon vs. big box retailers like Best Buy, as HDGuru mentions Samsung is reportedly looking to enforce Apple-style uniform pricing on its high-end products. Check the full -- and pretty darn comprehensive -- list at the source below.

Samsung's 2012 HDTV family prices leaked? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:06:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | HDGuru (1), (2) | Email this | Comments

Boxee and the NCTA debate if ClearQAM is good for us

Ben Drawbaugh — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:52:00 EDT

The National Cable & Telecommunications Association and Boxee don't see eye to eye on whether or not ClearQAM is good or bad for us. Boxee argues that encrypting even those channels free and clear via an antenna, as a few cable companies have requested permission from the FCC to do, will increase your bill and limit competition. The NCTA alternatively claims that eliminating ClearQAM will enable self installs, thus reducing costs and truck rolls, because the coax outside your house will no longer need to be disconnected when you cancel service, and that Boxee should just adopt CableCARD if it wants the Boxee Box to access live cable TV -- of course most anyone who has had a CableCARD setup knows that a simple truck roll to connect a cable outside is child's play. While this struggle has played out in public with FCC filings, social media and blog posts, we all just fondly remember a day when setting up a TV was as simple as connecting a single coax cable and running a channel scan. Of course, it would be nice if the FCC would actually force more QAM to be sent in the clear and require accurate PSIP data while it's at it, but we gave up on that dream years ago.

Boxee and the NCTA debate if ClearQAM is good for us originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:52:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Boxee Blog 1, Boxee Box 2, Cable Tech Talk | Email this | Comments

Nintendo Wii joins the Hulu Plus watch party

Zach Honig — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:18:00 EDT

Sure, we knew it was coming, but now Hulu Plus has officially arrived for the Nintendo Wii, letting you stream "current-season hit TV shows such as... New Girl and Vampire Diaries" in all their ~~high~~ standard-definition glory. We know, you're already caught up on all that New Girl action, but The Biggest Loser's latest win will look even juicier in gorgeous 480p SD resolution, so head on over to the colorful Wii Shop Channel to get your $7.99 monthly Hulu fix. Or, if you're not keen on paying for your teevee, you can download a two-week free trial of the service anytime within the first month of availability. And what about that 3DS version? You'll need to wait until "later this year," unfortunately. Full PR is just past the break.

Continue reading Nintendo Wii joins the Hulu Plus watch party

Nintendo Wii joins the Hulu Plus watch party originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:18:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Joystiq | Business Wire | Email this | Comments

Xbox 360 system update gets its colors in order, makes it mandatory

Mat Smith — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:55:00 EDT

Remember those color problems experienced by some Xbox 360 users after last year's dashboard update? Microsoft appears to have fixed the issue in its latest system update, although it will take time for the fix to roll out across the associated apps -- we've been told this will happen over the next few months. Its Sony rival also rolled out its own (optional) update for the PS3 yesterday, improving "certain aspects" of the UI. The Xbox team promise that their update will also increase performance, but don't take their word for it; the update is rolling out now -- let us know how it goes.

Xbox 360 system update gets its colors in order, makes it mandatory originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 05:55:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Major Nelson, PlayStation blog | Email this | Comments

Time Warner Cable targets end of March for live TV on Android, MyTWC on iOS now

Richard Lawler — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:14:00 EDT

Time Warner Cable promised live TV streaming would make the leap from iOS to Android devices after Ice Cream Sandwich rolled out, and now Director of Digital Communication Jeff Simmermon tweets that it could go live by the end of March. That's described as a "very loose" date however, so don't get your Tab's and Nexus' hopes up to high just yet. This comes just after it launched a beta for live TV streaming to PCs, and on the same day the company revealed the formerly Android-exclusive MyTWC app for iOS. It handles more mundane tasks like bill payment, call forwarding and voicemail, but interested subscribers can grab the free app from iTunes at the link below.

Time Warner Cable targets end of March for live TV on Android, MyTWC on iOS now originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:14:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Slashgear | iTunes, TW Cable Untangled, @jeffTWC (Twitter) | Email this | Comments

Comcast slows the flood of video customer losses in Q4 2011

Richard Lawler — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:57:00 EDT

It's not often that a company announced it lost 17,000 customers in a quarter and that's considered good news, but for Comcast that's exactly the case when it comes to cable TV. Compared to the 135,000 customers lost in the same period a year ago (which was also lower than the year that preceded it), it's a slowing of a trend over the last few years and if you believe cord cutting is taking a toll on Big Cable, could indicate that is tailing off as well. That's not all of the good news however, as it also increased the number of customers picking up extra services like internet and phone. We didn't get too many tidbits from the earnings call, but did hear a mention that it's investing in new cloud-based software for its TV boxes -- hopefully that means we'll see that new Xfinity TV guide roll out widely sooner rather than later.

Comcast slows the flood of video customer losses in Q4 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:57:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kinect for Media Center released, why not wave and shout at your HTPC?

Richard Lawler — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 01:34:00 EDT

Kinect hacks previously brought gesture and voice control to Boxee and XBMC, and now that the Kinect for Windows hardware has been released we've got a solution for Windows Media Center. The aptly named Kinect for Media Center brings all the normal playback controls (for WMC and add-ins like Netflix) to your fingertips and lips, at the cost of $6.99. While its control scheme seems to be fully featured there are unfortunately some limitations -- it doesn't work with the Xbox 360 Kinect due to Microsoft's restrictions, and it also doesn't work with WMC extenders. What is included are filters to keep your content from accidentally triggering the voice controls (something some of us have had problems with on the Xbox 360), and configurable settings for right or left hand dominance or sensitivity. You can check out a video demo of the beta version (compare to a demo we saw last year from the makers of the Amulet voice control remotes) embedded after the break, or head directly to the site to try it out yourself if you're sure that finding the remote has simply become to much of a hassle.

Continue reading Kinect for Media Center released, why not wave and shout at your HTPC?

Kinect for Media Center released, why not wave and shout at your HTPC? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 01:34:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink The Digital Lifestyle | Kinect for Media Center, The Media Center Project (Facebook) | Email this | Comments

Engadget HD Podcast 286 - 02.14.2012

Trent Wolbe — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:20:00 EDT

We're back with 2012's first post-football Engadget HD podcast. How will we survive in these harsh, unforgiving lands? We're not sure, but there's still plenty of news to discuss including the latest rumors from Google and Apple, and pricing info on some of 2012's most anticipated HDTVs. Not happy with your current cable company-provided DVR? Announcements from Virgin Media and Arris have some good news/ bad news for you, but for all that and the rest, just press play.

Get the podcast
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Podcast directly in iTunes (MP3).
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[MP3] Download the show (MP3).

Hosts: Ben Drawbaugh (@bjdraw), Richard Lawler (@rjcc)

Producer: Trent Wolbe

00:01:42 - Virgin Media's Q4 2011 report: Brits love TiVo
00:05:23 - Arris brings Moxi HD DVR sales to an end, plans to cut off guide data after 2013
00:13:30 - AT&T U-Verse iPad app combines DVR control and companion features
00:20:17 - Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK
00:21:30 - 2012 HDTV pricing leaks out for Panasonic, Sony, Sharp and Samsung
00:30:49 - Google reportedly working on wireless home entertainment system
00:34:00 - Google TV Facebook page teases new announcement (Update: It's a new YouTube app)
00:36:17 - Super Bowl internet debut breaks records, disappoints some viewers
00:43:10 - Disney considering 28-day rental window
00:53:45 - Amazon, Viacom deal brings more TV shows to Prime
00:57:54 - Globe and Mail reveals early details on Apple iTV
01:06:46 - Must See HDTV (February 13th - 19th)

Hear the podcast

LISTEN (MP3)
LISTEN (AAC)

Engadget HD Podcast 286 - 02.14.2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:20:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Time Warner Cable's TWC TV launches for PC, brings live TV streaming to the desktop

Richard Lawler — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:47:00 EDT

After expanding its live TV streaming from iPads to iPhones, Time Warner Cable is going in the other direction and offering the service on PCs. The PC version of TWC TV launched today in beta -- still no word on streaming to Android devices or HDTVs yet -- but the Silverlight player will work on Windows and OS X, in Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari or Chrome. According to the official blog it has more than just streaming, with remote control over compatible set-top boxes and DVR scheduling also included. Of course, the same restrictions still apply here as they have on tablets and phones, with playback only while connected to your home network. If you're a Time Warner customer, hit the link below to sign in and try it out, or hit the blog for more details on what works where.

Time Warner Cable's TWC TV launches for PC, brings live TV streaming to the desktop originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | TW Cable Untangled, TWC TV (beta) | Email this | Comments

Reminder: Vote for the 2011 Engadget Awards!

Edgar Alvarez — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:17:00 EDT

Emmys? Check. Grammys? Check. Engadget Awards 2011? Almost there. Now that we've gone through the nomination process, it's time for you to let us know who deserves to be crowned king of its category, which in some special cases, might not be something to be completely proud of. The clock's ticking and you have until 11:59PM ET on Monday February 20th to drop your precious ballot in. We'll let you know soon thereafter who's walking away a winner and who's heading back to the shelves empty-handed, as well as who earned our Editors' Choice picks.

Who's got your vote? Fill us in by hitting up our voting page here.

Reminder: Vote for the 2011 Engadget Awards! originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:17:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aereo puts TV antennas in the cloud, streams OTA broadcasts on the internet

Michael Gorman — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:33:00 EDT

We've all heard about SlingBox, that nifty bit of kit that lets you stream your cable or satellite television to the mobile device of your choice, and now a new company called Aereo aims to provide a similar service for OTA broadcast television. The service costs $12 dollars a month and will launch March 14th, but is only available to folks in New York City through Aereo's HTML5-powered website. It'll stream all the major networks, and also offers a cloud-based DVR service on the internet-connected device of your choosing, whether it's a media streamer, phone, tablet or TV. Aereo's powered by large devices containing tons of tiny, dime-sized TV antennas connected to the cloud, with individual antennas corresponding to individual users -- giving each the ability to tune into one channel at a time. Intrigued as much as we are? Learn all about Aereo's new service at the source link below.

Aereo puts TV antennas in the cloud, streams OTA broadcasts on the internet originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink New York Times | Aereo, Aereo blog | Email this | Comments

Bowers and Wilkins refreshes M-1 speaker and PV1D subwoofer, new Mini Theater bundles coming soon

Sharif Sakr — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:36:00 EDT

B&W will soon have something new for every corner of your media consumption shrine. The six-year-old M-1 compact monitor is getting improved drivers, offering "enhanced full-range performance," while the PV1D subwoofer benefits from a more complete redesign. It now boasts the same digital platform as the flagship DB1, a new OLED display and other fresh specs including a dynamic EQ circuit and a low 7.5Hz cut off. The only component of the Mini Theater range that'll keep its old guts is the ASW608 subwoofer, which is now available in matte white to match that option with the M-1s. Look to spend $250 on each monitor, $1,700 on the PV1D and $500 on the ASW608, but check the press release first for more details and bundle options. Availability starts "early 2012."

Continue reading Bowers and Wilkins refreshes M-1 speaker and PV1D subwoofer, new Mini Theater bundles coming soon

Bowers and Wilkins refreshes M-1 speaker and PV1D subwoofer, new Mini Theater bundles coming soon originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:36:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 10PM

Ben Drawbaugh — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EDT

It's Monday, and almost as regular an occurrence as the day itself, we're here to help by letting you listen into the recording booth when the Engadget HD podcast goes to mp3 at 10PM. Please be a part of it by reviewing the list of topics after the break, then participating in the live chat as you listen in.

Continue reading Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 10PM

Join the Engadget HD Podcast live on Ustream at 10PM originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Must See HDTV (February 13th - 19th)

Richard Lawler — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:16:00 EDT

This week sees the annual return of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show alongside other premieres sprinkled among the Whitney Houston tributes. Still, even with football off the schedule we're focused on sports, whether it's New York's newest star or a fictional player in an HBO series. Look below for the highlights this week, followed after the break by our weekly listing of what to look out for in TV, Blu-ray and videogames.

Mavericks/Knicks
One word: LINSANITY. Jeremy Lin mania has swept the nation and we are completely caught up in it. The Harvard star turned Knicks starting point guard brings his show back to national TV Sunday afternoon against the defending NBA champions -- catch the fever.
(Sunday, ABC, 1PM)

Survivor, The Amazing Race
The two big reality show / travelogue contenders both return with new seasons this week. While we prefer The Amazing Race for its varied locales, we're sure whatever island Survivor sticks its collection of money-hungry individuals on this time will be quite beautiful as well.
(Wednesday, CBS, 8PM) (Sunday, CBS, 8PM)

Eastbound & Down
Kenny Powers returns for the final season of Eastbound & Down Sunday night, as he joins a minor league team and attempts to make it back to the major leagues. If you haven't been watching this comedy, you've been missing out. One of our managing editor's favorite shows, Kenny is not exactly a role model, but that's what makes him so hilarious as a disgraced former star who goes from big time baseball to gym teacher. Check out the trailer for the new season embedded after the break.
(Sunday, HBO, 10PM)

Continue reading Must See HDTV (February 13th - 19th)

Must See HDTV (February 13th - 19th) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:16:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AT&T U-Verse iPad app combines DVR control and companion features

Richard Lawler — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:21:00 EDT

It's been over a year since we saw AT&T first demo a U-verse connected tablet app with second screen companion features it called "ComplemenTV" and last week it officially launched for the iPad. AT&T U-verse for iPad can act as a remote control for any the company's DVRs in the home, as well as pull in extra info about the content that's playing. If you're away from home, it can still pull up guide data, program the DVR, or play a selection of VOD shows just like the U-verse's other mobile apps. what it doesn't have however, unlike many other pay-TV tablet apps out there, is live TV streaming of any kind. Of course, it is a free add-on, so check after the break for a quick video demo or hit iTunes to download it yourself.

Continue reading AT&T U-Verse iPad app combines DVR control and companion features

AT&T U-Verse iPad app combines DVR control and companion features originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | iTunes, AT&T | Email this | Comments

Google makes 'next gen personal communications device,' is testing it in employee abodes

Michael Gorman — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EDT

We first heard about Google's foray into home-based hardware late last week, when it asked the FCC for Special Temporary Authority (STA) to have employees test an "entertainment device" in their homes (as opposed to a lab). According to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal, it's rumored to be a Sonos-like device related to the Android@Home Tungsten hub we saw at Google I/O last year. It appears, however, that's not all Google's got in store, as some information has trickled out about another Google-branded gadget. Apparently, it's a "next generation personal communication device," and Mountain View has asked the FCC for another STA to test 102 of them in the same cities as the aforementioned entertainment box: Mountain View, LA, New York and Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Why? Well, Google wants to track its Bluetooth performance and evaluate "the throughput and stability of the home WiFi networks that will support the device" in a real-world setting. Other details about the device are scant, but we do know that testing on this second Google-made gadget is ongoing through July 15th, so here's hoping we can get a glimpse of one between now and then. Check out the FCC docs for both devices at the source below, and feel free to sound off on what you think Google's got in store in the comments after.

Google makes 'next gen personal communications device,' is testing it in employee abodes originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:53:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Ars Technica | FCC (1), (2) | Email this | Comments

Google TV Facebook page teases new announcement (Update: It's a new YouTube app)

Christopher Trout — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 18:40:00 EDT

Since Eric Schmidt made the rather bold proclamation that "most" new TVs would have Google TV embedded by summer 2012, we've all been waiting for something "big" from Mountain View. Well, if you can believe the services' Facebook page, "big announcements" are just what we can expect Monday. A post on Google TV's profile leaves a lot to the imagination, but while speculation is already jumping sky-high (Google TV Nexus, anyone?) the possibilities range all the way from new product announcements to minor service / feature expansions or contests -- so set your alert levels accordingly. Of course, if it were really a big deal then you'd think the news would come out on Google+, right?

Update: Just that fast, the official blog has revealed the big announcement and it's.... an updated version of the YouTube app. For what it's worth, the new version is supposed to be faster with smoother navigation when it starts rolling out "in the next few days." It also adds a "Discover" feature for browsing by category, new channel pages and better tie-ins for related videos, which should help viewers browse its growing library of premium content, but isn't exactly the big announcement some may have anticipated. Check the blog for more details and return to DEFCON 5.

Google TV Facebook page teases new announcement (Update: It's a new YouTube app) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 18:40:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink GeekTonic | Facebook, Google TV Blog | Email this | Comments

Arris brings Moxi HD DVR sales to an end, plans to cut off guide data after 2013... maybe

Richard Lawler — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:33:00 EDT

While Moxi may live on in spirit as a white label multiroom HD DVR for cable companies, parent company Arris announced on its website this week the retail boxes and extenders are no longer being sold. Initially, a note on the company's home page indicated tech support and guide data would come to an end at the end of 2013 as noted by Zatz Not Funny, but references to that have since been removed. Potentially abandoned users on AVS Forum have already started looking for alternative ways to keep the guide data flowing and possibly get help from Arris in prying open the code to do so. We've contacted Arris for more information but haven't received a response yet -- we'll update you when / if we do. In the meantime Digeo's baby is still operational, so owners can enjoy however much time they have left, we'd recommend studying up on the stages of grief so you'll understand how to handle them over the next several months.

Update: Arris has updated its page, claiming the discontinuation notice was an "error", and that it has "no plans" to discontinue service. Satisfied?

[Thanks, Alfred]

Arris brings Moxi HD DVR sales to an end, plans to cut off guide data after 2013... maybe originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:33:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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aTV Flash update adds automatic backups, new playback options to jailbroken Apple TVs

Richard Lawler — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:25:00 EDT

The FireCore team has been busy updating its pay-to-play ($30) aTV Flash software package for jailbroken Apple TVs and just rolled out the latest bundle of updates in version 1.3. Now it can automatically perform backups, speaks more languages, supports more remote commands, reads more subtitles and the list goes on. You can check after the break for the full changelog, or just hit the Maintenance section if you're already running it to download the update. Take a peek at what it can do and let us know if this is a worthwhile alternative to XBMC, or any of the other media streaming platforms out there.

aTV Flash update adds automatic backups, new playback options to jailbroken Apple TVs originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:25:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netflix Android app adds onscreen volume slider, Facebook integration (where available)

Richard Lawler — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:47:00 EDT

Now that Netflix is available on most Android devices and even sporting a fresh tablet interface, what's there left to tweak? Plenty actually, and the company just pushed a new 1.7 version of the app that adds Facebook sharing and discovery in the countries where those features are enabled (read: not the US). Also new is a software volume slider for tablet users as shown above by Android Community, as well as tweaks for AV sync and resolution of some other tablet incompatibilities. HD streaming support for tablets will have to wait for another day, but for now users can grab the latest version from the Android Market at the link below.

Netflix Android app adds onscreen volume slider, Facebook integration (where available) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:47:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink Android Community | Android Market | Email this | Comments

Distro goes 'Beyond the Revolution' to explore tech in post-Mubarak Egypt

Christopher Trout — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:15:00 EDT

Nearly one year ago, dictator Hosni Mubarak was forced to step down after 18 consecutive days of protest by Egyptian citizens. Those demonstrations were organized largely through the use of social networking, cell phones and banned TV channels, a greater trend that permeated the revolutionary period now known as the Arab Spring. To mark the anniversary of Mubarak's ousting, Sharif Sakr traveled to Egypt to speak with five Egyptians about the role that technology plays in their lives today. This issue of Distro also features reviews of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7, Motorola's Droid RAZR Maxx, Sony's Alpha NEX-7 and a Q&A with the founder of the Ubuntu Project, Mark Shuttleworth. If you've been looking for a good reason to download an issue of Distro, look no further.

Distro Issue 27 PDF
Distro on the iTunes App Store
Distro in the Android Market
Distro APK (for sideloading)
Like Distro on Facebook
Follow Distro on Twitter

Distro goes 'Beyond the Revolution' to explore tech in post-Mubarak Egypt originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:15:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | iTunes, Android Market | Email this | Comments

Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK

Richard Lawler — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:41:00 EDT

Just as Netflix is nearly ubiquitous on media streaming platforms in the US, BBC's iPlayer is pretty much a default app in the UK so it's no surprise to see it show up on Roku's boxes just as they start shipping across the Atlantic. As detailed in the press release after the break, those shiny new Roku LT and Roku 2 XS hockey pucks are well on their way to punters who've shelled out £50 / £100, respectively, with over 40 available channels. Unfortunately, that announcement doesn't extend to global iPlayer support outside the UK and Republic of Ireland, so we'll have to catch up on Inside Men some other way.

Continue reading Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK

Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:41:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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