Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Hulu may not sell after all, bidding drama continues]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/hulu-may-not-sell-after-all-bidding-drama-continues/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/hulu-may-not-sell-after-all-bidding-drama-continues/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/19/hulu-may-not-sell-after-all-bidding-drama-continues/#comments Hulu has been dressed in its Sunday best for some time now hoping to attract potential buyers -- but according to Reuters, a slew of speed bumps have slowed down the process and may even kill all hopes of selling the service. According to sources, the first bump in the road can be attributed to Hulu's owners -- News Corp., Disney, NBC Universal and Providence Equity Partners -- who may not all be on the same page when it comes to selling the service. Without a unified front, it's been hard for the company to find an acceptable offer from the likes of Google, Amazon, DirecTV and Dish Network, who have all talked about bidding between $500 million to $2 billion. As the service awaits a new round of bids next week, it's been said that the major players involved have (unsurprisingly) agreed to reject any lowball offers. Despite a growing numbers of subscribers, it's entirely uncertain whether anyone will step in to clean up the company's hot mess -- we're sure the drama would make for a perfect Hulu Plus exclusive, though.

Hulu may not sell after all, bidding drama continues originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 19:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncomcastDirecTVDish NetworkDishNetworkgooglehdpostminihuluHulu PlusHuluPlusIPONBCNBC UniversalNbcUniversalnews corpNewsCorpTVTV showstv shows on the internetTvShowsTvShowsOnTheInternetyahooMon, 19 Sep 2011 19:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: Are you watching TV with/on a tablet?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/10/poll-are-you-watching-tv-with-on-a-tablet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/10/poll-are-you-watching-tv-with-on-a-tablet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/10/poll-are-you-watching-tv-with-on-a-tablet/#comments Adding a tablet component to your TV service is all the rage among providers and set-top box manufacturers these days (Comcast, DirecTV, Dish, TiVo, Motorola, FiOS, Cablevision, Time Warner, Boxee just to name a few) but our question today is how many of our EHD readers are putting any of them to use. Check out the poll options below and find the one that fits you best, then tell us why in the comments below. Are all these iPad apps just a fad or is the tablet here to stay?

View Poll

Poll: Are you watching TV with/on a tablet? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 10 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappleapple ipadAppleIpadboxeecablevisioncomcastdirectvdish networkDishNetworkfioshdipadipad appipad remoteIpadAppIpadRemoteoptimum for ipadOptimumForIpadpollremote appRemoteApptablettime warnerTimeWarnertwcable tvTwcableTvxfinity tvXfinityTvSun, 10 Apr 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 retransmission dispute roundup: which channels may go dark at midnight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/31/2011-retransmission-dispute-roundup-which-channels-may-go-dark/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/31/2011-retransmission-dispute-roundup-which-channels-may-go-dark/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/31/2011-retransmission-dispute-roundup-which-channels-may-go-dark/#comments It's a yearly thing, with contracts between TV stations and pay-TV providers due to expire just as the ball drops for the New Year it's increasingly hard to tell which channels will still be around when 2011 dawns. Check out our list below to see which ones are on the chopping block and which ones have already reached a new agreement this time around. If you spot any we've missed let us know in the comments or if there are any last minute reprieves, updates or extensions.

Update: Moved Suddenlink/Viacom, Time Warner/Sinclair to resolved

Expiring at midnight:

Resolved:
  • Hearst vs. DirecTV - Covering 29 stations across the country including CBS, ABC and CW affiliates
  • Insight vs. Raycom - Three stations in Louisville, Evansville and Cincinnati
  • Suddenlink vs. Viacom - Not only will Suddenlink keep Viacom stations like MTV, VH1 and Spike, but it will also be adding EPIX "in the next few months," without raising its subscribers rates
  • Time Warner Cable vs. Sinclair Broadcast Group -- Sinclair owns ABC, CBS, Fox, CW, MyNetworkTV and NBC affiliates in 35 markets which it will pull at midnight including San Antonio, Pittsburgh and Tampa. Time Warner claims it will still be able to provide programming from the "Big 4" networks in those areas without Sinclair, although viewers may miss their local news stations -- This isn't fully resolved, but negotiations have been extended until January 14th. Details here.

2011 retransmission dispute roundup: which channels may go dark at midnight originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carriagedirectvdish networkDishNetworkdisputeehdhearstinsightraycomretranssinclairsinclair broadcastingSinclairBroadcastingstyle networkStyleNetworktime warner cableTimeWarnerCableFri, 31 Dec 2010 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dish Network has AMC HD now, casually points out DirecTV still doesn't]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/20/dish-network-has-amc-hd-now-casually-points-out-directv-still-d/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/20/dish-network-has-amc-hd-now-casually-points-out-directv-still-d/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/20/dish-network-has-amc-hd-now-casually-points-out-directv-still-d/#comments Congratulations Dish Network on announcing yourself as "the first and only satellite TV provider in America to offer this channel." Though DirecTV still has NFL Sunday ticket, if your taste run more towards Don Draper than Adrian Peterson, you won't get Mad Men in HD there, yet. Check for the new network on channel 130 in the America's Top 200 package of channels and higher, and let us know if Rubicon is worth watching -- going into these conspiracy stories blind can be tiring.

Continue reading Dish Network has AMC HD now, casually points out DirecTV still doesn't

Dish Network has AMC HD now, casually points out DirecTV still doesn't originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Aug 2010 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amcamc hdAmcHddirectvDish NetworkDishNetworkhdmad menMadMenrubiconsatelliteFri, 20 Aug 2010 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Apricorn's DVR Expanders get bigger, prettier, quieter with new 2TB option and fanless designs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/06/apricorns-dvr-expanders-get-bigger-prettier-quieter-with-new/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/06/apricorns-dvr-expanders-get-bigger-prettier-quieter-with-new/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/06/apricorns-dvr-expanders-get-bigger-prettier-quieter-with-new/#comments Say hello to the latest iteration of Apricorn's DVR Expander series, now offering sizes up to 2TB. The drives are wrapped in a passively cooled design that not only upgrades the looks from its external storage units of years gone by but are also "ultra-quiet" after dropping the fans. The 1.5TB and 2TB ($169 and $249, respectively) models are only for compatible DirecTV boxes, while Dish Network and Scientific Atlanta (8300 and 8240 series) DVR users can plug in units of either 500GB or 1TB ($99 and ($129, respectively) in size. With up to 234 hours of HDTV recording on the eSATA/USB connected units, mentioning the possibility of connecting multiple drives to the satellite boxes seems like overkill, but if you want to record every episode of The Daily Show and Colbert Report left this year, we won't judge.

Gallery: Apricorn DVR Expander 2010

Continue reading Apricorn's DVR Expanders get bigger, prettier, quieter with new 2TB option and fanless designs

Apricorn's DVR Expanders get bigger, prettier, quieter with new 2TB option and fanless designs originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2tbapricornApricorn dvr xpanderApricornDvrXpanderdirectvdish networkDishNetworkdvrdvr expanderdvr xpanderDvrExpanderDvrXpanderesataexternalexternal storageExternalStoragehard driveHardDrivehdscientific atlantaScientificAtlantausbFri, 06 Aug 2010 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T, DirecTV, Verizon push Comcast & Cablevision for HD sports channels]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/28/atandt-directv-verizon-push-comcast-and-cablevision-for-access-to/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/28/atandt-directv-verizon-push-comcast-and-cablevision-for-access-to/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/28/atandt-directv-verizon-push-comcast-and-cablevision-for-access-to/#commentsAfter the FCC closed the terrestrial loophole we knew it wouldn't be long until satellite and IPTV providers started moving on the cable companies regarding access to high definition versions of their regional sports networks and now they have. Multichannel News reports AT&T has put in its request for access to HD feeds of the MSG Network, while DirecTV and DISH Network have done the same for Comcast and its SportsNet Philadelphia channel. Today, Verizon filed a supplement to its existing Program access Complaint to the FCC asking it to force Cablevision into opening up those MSG and MSG+ HD feeds. so far, Comcast has had no response at all, while Cablevision maintains that providing standard def access to U-Verse and FiOS satisfies its requirements under the current laws -- although it certainly doesn't match our standard of common decency -- the rest is up to the courts, lawyers and the FCC.

Continue reading AT&T, DirecTV, Verizon push Comcast & Cablevision for HD sports channels

AT&T, DirecTV, Verizon push Comcast & Cablevision for HD sports channels originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attcablevisioncomcastcomcast sportsnetcomcast sportsnet philadelphiaComcastSportsnetComcastSportsnetPhiladelphiadirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfcchdmsgmsg networkMsgNetworkregional sports networkRegionalSportsNetworkrsnterrestrial loopholeTerrestrialLoopholeMon, 28 Jun 2010 14:51:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV, DISH offer "free HD for life" with a few strings -- anyone signing up?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/07/directv-dish-offer-free-hd-for-life-with-a-few-strings-any/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/07/directv-dish-offer-free-hd-for-life-with-a-few-strings-any/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/07/directv-dish-offer-free-hd-for-life-with-a-few-strings-any/#comments Just in case you missed the ads airing on TV or splattered across websites (like this one) DirecTV and DISH Network have launched headlong into their latest war. DISH started things last week by offering "free HD for life" (ad embedded from YouTube after the break), eliminating the $10 service charge for new customers signing up for a two year contract with automatic bill pay, or existing customers who either pay $99 "HD upgrade fee" up front, or sign a two year deal and add auto bill payment to their accounts. This weekend, DirecTV began offering its own "HD free for life" deal that scrubs its $10 fee for new customers under similar requirements to the DISH offer. By comparison, HD service is usually included with digital cable packages but we're wondering if dropping the extra fees is enough to make you think of joining the satellite team, or switching your current agreement.

View Poll

Continue reading DirecTV, DISH offer "free HD for life" with a few strings -- anyone signing up?

DirecTV, DISH offer "free HD for life" with a few strings -- anyone signing up? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvdishdish networkDishNetworkfeesfree hd for lifeFreeHdForLifehdpollprice warPriceWarpromotionsMon, 07 Jun 2010 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV raises its HD channels claim to 160, disses Dish for juking the numbers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/20/directv-ups-its-channels-claim-to-160-disses-dish-for-juking-th/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/20/directv-ups-its-channels-claim-to-160-disses-dish-for-juking-th/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/20/directv-ups-its-channels-claim-to-160-disses-dish-for-juking-th/#comments We hadn't even finished counting Dish's 200 channels claim when DirecTV pops up with plans to add a whole slew of new HD networks as well. By its reckoning, tossing ESPNU HD, WGN HD, MSNBC HD, some additional DirecTV Cinema Channels and more puts it over 160 "around the clock HD channels", and executive VP Derek Chang couldn't resist tossing in a link to count them for yourself. He's laid the gauntlet down for Dish to put its channel lineup up for similar scrutiny, we'll see if the end result of this duel is more clarity in the channel/choices count wars. Check the full press release after the break.

Continue reading DirecTV raises its HD channels claim to 160, disses Dish for juking the numbers

DirecTV raises its HD channels claim to 160, disses Dish for juking the numbers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>160 hd channels160HdChannelschannelsderek changDerekChangDirecTVdish networkDishNetworkhdhd channelsHdChannelsmaynew channelsNewChannelsthe wireTheWireTue, 20 Apr 2010 14:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Dish Network countersues DirecTV over signal reliability claims]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/22/dish-network-countersues-directv-over-signal-reliability-claims/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/22/dish-network-countersues-directv-over-signal-reliability-claims/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/22/dish-network-countersues-directv-over-signal-reliability-claims/#commentsOh, don't act surprised. As is the norm with these things, Dish Network has filed a countersuit against DirecTV. Last month, the latter company filed suit, claiming Dish's "Why Pay More" ads were false and misleading. The countersuit, unsurprisingly, is also false and misleading advertising -- in this instance, the claim "nothing comes close to the reliability and quality of DirecTV." Dish asserts its signal reliability is exactly the same, 99.9 percent. Better strap yourself in, it's gonna be a long and bumpy ride through the court system.

Dish Network countersues DirecTV over signal reliability claims originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 22:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>counter suitCounterSuitdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworklawlegalsatellitesuesuitMon, 22 Mar 2010 22:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with the interactive Olympics and web videos]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/15/hands-on-with-the-interactive-olympics-and-web-videos/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/15/hands-on-with-the-interactive-olympics-and-web-videos/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/15/hands-on-with-the-interactive-olympics-and-web-videos/#comments Events like the Olympics usual bring new technology home -- which is a good thing -- but unfortunately these apps really show us how far we are from the interactive TV future we've been promised. There really isn't any realistic way to try out every version of interactive Olympic coverage since so many providers are only offered in certain areas of the country and some providers -- like Time Warner Cable, Bright House Networks, Charter and most Cox areas -- aren't offering any at all. In addition to interactive TV the Winter games have actually taken a step back in regards to online video. While anyone could watch all the live videos and replays online before, the Winter Olympic coverage requires that you to prove you pay for TV before giving you full access. In the case of Verizon's FiOS TV, it allows viewers to access the EBIF interactive information from NBC Universal's channels, which is the first time we've every experienced the use of CableLabs' new interactive platform, as for how we like it or Comcast's mosaic channel, click on through to find out.

Gallery: Interactive Olympics

Continue reading Hands-on with the interactive Olympics and web videos

Hands-on with the interactive Olympics and web videos originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Olympic Winter Games2010 olympics2010 Winter Olympics2010Olympics2010OlympicWinterGames2010WinterOlympicsBright House networksBrightHouseNetworksComcastDirecTVDish NEtworkDishNetworkEBIFFiOSFiOS TVFiosTvhands-onhdinteractive TVInteractiveTvOlympicsTime Warner CableTimeWarnerCablewinterolympicsMon, 15 Feb 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV suing Dish Network over Why Pay More ads, says there's plenty of reasons]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/13/directv-suing-dish-network-over-why-pay-more-ads-says-theres-p/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/13/directv-suing-dish-network-over-why-pay-more-ads-says-theres-p/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/13/directv-suing-dish-network-over-why-pay-more-ads-says-theres-p/#comments While we settle our disputes the old fashioned way (Judge Judy appearances) DirecTV's taking its beef with recent Dish Network ads to a slightly different courtroom. The "Why Pay More" ad campaign has been running for the last year but it appears the latest "Man on the Street" spot (embedded after the break) is what has really upset DirecTV, claiming that its package costs around $20 a month more than Dish. The lawsuit filed Thursday claims the DirecTV services offer more, and higher quality, channels than the one it's being compared to and according to Multichannel News, the company mentions many of the channels this ad is airing on aren't even a part of the Dish lineup being advertised. Of course, as long as it's adding customers we don't see Dish backing off the comparisons on its own anytime soon and if you wonder how long it's willing totake the heat in court, just ask TiVo.

Continue reading DirecTV suing Dish Network over Why Pay More ads, says there's plenty of reasons

DirecTV suing Dish Network over Why Pay More ads, says there's plenty of reasons originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 13 Feb 2010 01:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfalse advertisingFalseAdvertisinglawsuitsatellitetv channelsTvChannelswhy pay moreWhyPayMoreSat, 13 Feb 2010 01:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget HD takes an in-depth look at Media Center in Windows 7 RTM]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/27/engadget-hd-takes-an-in-depth-look-at-media-center-in-windows-7/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/27/engadget-hd-takes-an-in-depth-look-at-media-center-in-windows-7/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/27/engadget-hd-takes-an-in-depth-look-at-media-center-in-windows-7/#comments

If you've ever thought about forcing your Xbox 360 to do double duty and in addition to all the games you require it to host for you, set it up to replace your TiVo or cable company DVR, then now might just be the time. The reason is simple, in Windows 7, Microsoft has really made some nice improvements to Windows Media Center. What improvements you might ask? Glad you did, because over at Engadget HD the team went over the changes with a fine-tooth comb. This includes a comprehensive list of improvements and shortfalls in regards to using Windows 7 Media Center as a full time HD DVR as well as a few videos to really help you appreciate what's new and what the experience is like on an Xbox 360.

Gallery: Windows 7 Media Center review

Guide with colorsGuide without colorsCustom favoritesMini guide. Edit guide page

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Engadget HD takes an in-depth look at Media Center in Windows 7 RTM originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCATIATI DCTAtiDctCableCARDDirecTVDISH NetworkDishNetworkhdtvManaged CopyManagedCopyMedia Centermedia pcmedia pcsMediaCentermediapcmediapcsMicrosoftPlayReadyProject DracoProjectDracoTuning AdapterTuningAdapterWindowsWindows 7 Media CenterWindows Home ServerWindows Media CenterWindows7MediaCenterWindowsHomeServerWindowsMediaCenterWMCXbox 360Xbox360Zune HDZuneHdMon, 27 Jul 2009 12:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Windows 7 Media Center review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/27/windows-7-media-center-review/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/27/windows-7-media-center-review/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/27/windows-7-media-center-review/#comments
We've been waiting a long time for this and it's finally here, the latest version of Windows Media Center. Well, we really stopped waiting a few months ago when the release candidate hit, but waited on composing our thoughts until after we had a chance to play with the RTM copy. For the most part, as you'd expect the RTM build is identical to the RC, sans the bugs, but there are plenty of upgrades over Vista Media Center. Many of these new features were also in the TV Pack, but in our book that doesn't count. For starters it was OEM only, and thus you could only get it (legitimately) by buying a new PC, but the real reason is because it was so buggy, it was beyond usable. In fact we still stand by the theory that the TV Pack was nothing more than an early preview for OEMs of the new guts of Windows 7 Media Center. Gladly that is all behind us now, so keep reading to find out what gets us excited about Windows 7 Media Center.

Gallery: Windows 7 Media Center review

Guide with colorsGuide without colorsCustom favoritesMini guide. Edit guide page

Continue reading Windows 7 Media Center review

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Windows 7 Media Center review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCATIATI DCTAtiDctCableCARDDirecTVDISH NetworkDishNetworkhdManaged CopyManagedCopyMedia CenterMediaCenterPlayReadyProject DracoProjectDracoTuning AdapterTuningAdapterwindows 7Windows 7 Media CenterWindows Home ServerWindows Media CenterWindows7Windows7MediaCenterWindowsHomeServerWindowsMediaCenterWMCXbox 360Xbox360Zune HDZuneHdMon, 27 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TiVo coming to Time Warner Cable, potentially lots of other providers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/22/tivo-coming-to-time-warner-cable-potentially-lots-of-other-prov/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/22/tivo-coming-to-time-warner-cable-potentially-lots-of-other-prov/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/22/tivo-coming-to-time-warner-cable-potentially-lots-of-other-prov/#comments
It's been a long, messy road, but now that TiVo's beaten a victory out of EchoStar in that seemingly-endless DVR patent lawsuit it sounds like the company is trying to exert some muscle -- it's already in talks to bring its service to Time Warner Cable, and sources have told Bloomberg the ultimate plan is to eventually collect royalties from every pay-TV provider in the US. That might sound bullying and even a little trollish, but keep in mind these patents have withstood pretty much every legal challenge EchoStar could throw at them, so TiVo's operating from a position of some certainty here -- especially since it's got license agreements with huge players like Comcast and DirecTV to use as leverage in negotiations as well. Of course, none of this solves any of TiVo's actual problems with its products, and the company's topsy-turvy balance sheet has some analysts thinking its ripe for a buyout by one of the bigs, so things could change dramatically at any minute, but for right now it sounds like your chances of getting the TiVo interface on your cable or satellite company DVR just went up, and that's almost certainly a good thing.

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TiVo coming to Time Warner Cable, potentially lots of other providers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcastdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkdvrechostarhdlawsuitlegalpatenttime warnertime warner cableTimeWarnerTimeWarnerCabletivoMon, 22 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[TiVo coming to Time Warner Cable, potentially lots of other providers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/22/tivo-coming-to-time-warner-cable-potentially-lots-of-other-prov/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/22/tivo-coming-to-time-warner-cable-potentially-lots-of-other-prov/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/22/tivo-coming-to-time-warner-cable-potentially-lots-of-other-prov/#comments
It's been a long, messy road, but now that TiVo's beaten a victory out of EchoStar in that seemingly-endless DVR patent lawsuit it sounds like the company is trying to exert some muscle -- it's already in talks to bring its service to Time Warner Cable, and sources have told Bloomberg the ultimate plan is to eventually collect royalties from every pay-TV provider in the US. That might sound bullying and even a little trollish, but keep in mind these patents have withstood pretty much every legal challenge EchoStar could throw at them, so TiVo's operating from a position of some certainty here -- especially since it's got license agreements with huge players like Comcast and DirecTV to use as leverage in negotiations as well. Of course, none of this solves any of TiVo's actual problems with its products, and the company's topsy-turvy balance sheet has some analysts thinking its ripe for a buyout by one of the bigs, so things could change dramatically at any minute, but for right now it sounds like your chances of getting the TiVo interface on your cable or satellite company DVR just went up, and that's almost certainly a good thing.

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TiVo coming to Time Warner Cable, potentially lots of other providers originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcastdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkdvrechostarlawsuitlegalpatenttime warnertime warner cableTimeWarnerTimeWarnerCabletivoMon, 22 Jun 2009 13:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Is the future of Windows Media Center with Windows Home Server?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/22/is-the-future-of-windows-media-center-with-windows-home-server/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/22/is-the-future-of-windows-media-center-with-windows-home-server/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/22/is-the-future-of-windows-media-center-with-windows-home-server/#commentsWHS and WMC
With all the bad news around Windows Media Center this week, many enthusiasts are wondering about the future of Media Center. To say that the past few years have had a few disappointments is an understatement, especially when you think back to the way CableCARD support was implemented and how poorly the Extenders have been supported. Although things look pretty grim for our preferred DVR platform, we're optimistic that things are actually about to get really good in the next year thanks to Windows 7 and some unannounced features and products. Part of the reason we think this is because over the years we've been watching Microsoft develop products that have taken years to catch on and gain dominance. But lets be honest, we're not on the inside and most of what we think will happen is based on rumors and conjecture. With that being said, we've convinced ourselves that the future of Media Center, and the key to wider adoption that we think it deserves, is with Windows Home Server.

Continue reading Is the future of Windows Media Center with Windows Home Server?

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Is the future of Windows Media Center with Windows Home Server? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 May 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7MCCableCARDDirecTVDISHDISH NetworkDishNetworkFeaturedFeatureshdUPnPVMCWHSWHSv2Windows 7Windows Home ServerWindows Media CenterWindows7WindowsHomeServerWindowsMediaCenterWMCFri, 22 May 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[HD channel expansion roundup]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/16/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/16/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/16/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/#comments
Once upon a time, a smattering of new HD channels in one major metropolitan area was a huge deal. Nowadays, it's almost expected that one area or another will experience some HD expansion each week. In order to keep things nice and tidy around here, we deliver high-def expansions, market expansions and anything else dealing with HD channel growth right here. If we missed an area that you're familiar with, drop us a line in comments so everyone can catch up. The more the merrier, we say!

Read - DISH Network(R) Adds 30 HD Channels in Hawaii
Read - DISH Network(R) Adds 30 HD Channels in Alaska
Read - DIRECTV to Deliver Local HD Programming to Customers in Lafayette, Ind.
Read - Comcast digital switch update: Bellevue's next, Seattle in fall
Read - FashionTV(R) Introduces New 24/7 FTV(R) HD Channel in the U.S. on DISH Network(R)
Read - National Geographic Channels International Co-Produces Alaskan Killer Shark With Off The Fence Productions
Read - Cox Launches WRIC in HD to Customers in King and Queen County, New Kent, and West Point
Fox News Chicago switched to HD (Thanks, Garst)
Read - Time Warner Cable North East Ohio new HD Channels (Thanks, Justin)
Read - Special Preview: ABC Family HD, Disney HD, HBO2 HD and BET HD (Thanks, Gary)
Read - KMSP Fox 9 news in Minneapolis now in HD (Thanks, Nathan)

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HD channel expansion roundup originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 16 May 2009 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alaskaall digitalAllDigitalcablechannelchannelscomcastdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkEPGfashion tvFashionTvftv hdFtvHdhawaiihdindianakmsplafayettelineupnews roundupNewsRoundupsatelliteseattlewricSat, 16 May 2009 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[HD channel expansion roundup]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/18/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/18/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/18/hd-channel-expansion-roundup/#comments
Once upon a time, a smattering of new HD channels in one major metropolitan area was a huge deal. Nowadays, it's almost expected that one area or another will experience some HD expansion each week. In order to keep things nice and tidy around here, we deliver high-def expansions, market expansions and anything else dealing with HD channel growth right here. If we missed an area that you're familiar with, drop us a line in comments so everyone can catch up. The more the merrier, we say!
Read - Verizon to Distribute the YES Network Nationally in High Definition to FiOS 'Extreme HD' Subscribers, Under Multiyear Agreement
Read - NBA TV Scores Multiyear Distribution Deal With DirecTV
Read - DIRECTV Delivers Local HD Programming To Customers in Bangor, Maine
Read - Comcast project to increase available Internet speeds, add HDTV in Farmington, NM
Read - Comcast To Begin Rollout Of 22 More High Def Channels - Chattannooga, TN
Read - Comcast adds HD channels - Houston, TX
DISH adds HD Locals in Tucson [Thanks, Adam]
DISH adds KCAL9 in Los Angeles [Thanks, Ryan]

HD channel expansion roundup originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Apr 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bangorchannelchannelschattanoogadirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkepgfarmingtonhdHD channel expansion rounduphoustonkcal9lineupnba tvNbaTvnews roundupNewsRounduprounduptucsonSat, 18 Apr 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[DISH Network sees Q4 profit grow 24%, still sheds over 100,000 subscribers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/05/dish-network-sees-q4-profit-grow-24-still-sheds-over-100-000-s/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/05/dish-network-sees-q4-profit-grow-24-still-sheds-over-100-000-s/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/05/dish-network-sees-q4-profit-grow-24-still-sheds-over-100-000-s/#comments
Unlike DirecTV, which managed to post remarkable Q4 numbers across the board, DISH Network is only able to partially celebrate. You see, the satcaster did see profits in the fourth quarter rise some 24 percent, but at the same time, 102,000 (net) subscribers decided to head elsewhere. A recent report on the matter suggests that DISH is hurting from increased competition from main rival DirecTV, not to mention fiber-based entrants such as AT&T and Verizon. Of course, the general economic environment hasn't exactly helped matters, but DISH's smaller amount of high-def channels seems to be a magnified issue when money's tight. Oh, and if DirecTV is somehow able to integrate Sirius service into its pay-TV offering, we'd say DISH will need to think fast if it hopes to stop the bleeding of customers. Speaking of, have any of you recently jumped from DISH to DirecTV? Vice-versa?

[Image courtesy of PropertyWorld]

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DISH Network sees Q4 profit grow 24%, still sheds over 100,000 subscribers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Mar 2009 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesbusinessdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkearningsechostareconomyhdindustryquarterly earningsQuarterlyEarningssatcastersatelliteThu, 05 Mar 2009 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: Have you switched carriers due to lack of HD?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/25/poll-have-you-switched-carriers-due-to-lack-of-hd/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/25/poll-have-you-switched-carriers-due-to-lack-of-hd/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/25/poll-have-you-switched-carriers-due-to-lack-of-hd/#comments
We've asked you before whether it was "worth it" to switch from cable to satellite in search of a wider selection of high-def material, but now we're looking to see if any of you walked the talk. Have any of you readers actually ditched your programming provider in order to find another with more HD content? And if so, where did you leave and where did you go? Any regrets? Is life really that much better with more HD than one could ever watch in a single day? Brag / sulk away in comments below.

View Poll

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Poll: Have you switched carriers due to lack of HD? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attcablecarriercomcastdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfiberfiosfios tvFiosTvhdmediacomotapollpollsprorammingprovidersatelliteswitchswitchedtime warner cableTimeWarnerCabletwcu-verseuverseverizonSat, 25 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV replaces DISH as AT&T's BFF, Advanced TV partner]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/26/directv-replaces-dish-as-atandts-bff-advanced-tv-partner/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/26/directv-replaces-dish-as-atandts-bff-advanced-tv-partner/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/26/directv-replaces-dish-as-atandts-bff-advanced-tv-partner/#commentsThe AT&T / DISH Network breakup is official, with DirecTV satellite service sliding into place alongside U-Verse as a triple-play option for customers beginning January 31, 2009. No word whether AT&T plans to scale back the scope of these partnership deals as it continues to expand U-Verse, but with the big guys' love for bundling we wouldn't be surprised to see the same game of musical chairs going on all next year as well.

[Image courtesy GiftsByExpressions]

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DirecTV replaces DISH as AT&T's BFF, Advanced TV partner originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced tvAdvancedTvattdirectvdish networkDishNetworkhdinternetsatellitetriple playTriplePlayu-verseFri, 26 Sep 2008 18:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Blu-ray vs. 1080p VOD? No contest, says analyst]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/27/blu-ray-vs-1080p-vod-no-contest-says-analyst/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/27/blu-ray-vs-1080p-vod-no-contest-says-analyst/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/27/blu-ray-vs-1080p-vod-no-contest-says-analyst/#comments
Not that long ago, 1080p Hollywood movies were the domain of Blu-ray, but with Numericable jumping on the full HD VOD bandwagon, followed in short order by DISH Network and DirecTV, it's neighborhood is looking a little crowded. Luckily Strategy Analytics has an $899 report on why Blu-ray is safe -- at least for now -- from competing with service providers, although they also report the BDA is "exploring" DirecTV and DISH's claims of Blu-ray quality movies on demand and will take "appropriate action". We know how cheap you are, so the read link points to the totally free blog entry which you'll is about as skeptical as we were about their supposed picture quality. Of course, since too many HDTV owners aren't even watching high definition, it could be a hard sell convincing them of the difference between Blu-ray and other lower-bitrate 1080p sources.

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Blu-ray vs. 1080p VOD? No contest, says analyst originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Aug 2008 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pblu rayblu-raybluraydirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfiberhdnumericablesatelliteWed, 27 Aug 2008 10:14:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV delivers 31 new HD channels -- kind of]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/14/directv-delivers-31-new-hd-channels-kind-of/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/14/directv-delivers-31-new-hd-channels-kind-of/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/14/directv-delivers-31-new-hd-channels-kind-of/#commentsDirecTV HDWhen DirecTV recently promised it'd have 130 HD channels on August 14th, we have to say this isn't exactly what we had in mind. What we expected was 31 new HD channels that would match the lineup that Dish recently revealed, but what we got was 4 real HD channels (Planet Green HD, ABC Family, Showtime Showcase HD, Showtime Extreme HD), 12 HD regional sports networks and 18 HD PPV channels. Sure, technically this is 31 new HD channels, but what about; Travel Channel HD, Outdoor Channel 2 HD, a whole slew of HBO and Cinemax HD channels, and finally all the Starz and Encore channels? According to DirecTV, all the HD PPV channels are simply place holders until the rest are brought online, but even with that excuse, this is just yet another reason why we take DirecTV's press releases with a grain of salt.

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DirecTV delivers 31 new HD channels -- kind of originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ABC FamilyDirecTVDISH NetworkDishNetworkhdOutdoor Channel HDOutdoorChannelHdPlanet Green HDPlanetGreenHdsatelliteShowtime ExtrShowtime Showcase HDTravel Channel HDTravelChannelHdThu, 14 Aug 2008 16:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Warner Bros. 85th Anniversary celebration makes for a lot of HD VOD]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/14/warner-bros-85th-anniversary-celebration-makes-for-a-lot-of-hd/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/14/warner-bros-85th-anniversary-celebration-makes-for-a-lot-of-hd/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/14/warner-bros-85th-anniversary-celebration-makes-for-a-lot-of-hd/#commentsWarner Bros. is all over digital distribution in celebration of its 85th anniversary, pushing 85 of its classic flick onto video on-demand, most in high definition and many of them available in HD VOD for the first time. Anyone with Time Warner, Comcast, Cox, Charter, Rogers, DirecTV or DISH Network should have access to flicks including Doctor Zhivago, Casablanca, Chariots of Fire, Mad Max Beyond the Thunderdome straight from their remote starting today. Additionally Time Warner has lined up a series of indoor and outdoor screenings in LA and New York so keep an eye out for those. Great films in high quality without having to leave our couch, if we could stop watching the Olympics we'd take a look, check out the full list after the break. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]

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Warner Bros. 85th Anniversary celebration makes for a lot of HD VOD originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8585th anniversary85thAnniversarycablechartercomcastcoxdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkhdnew contentnewcontentrogerssatellitetime warnertime warner cableTimeWarnerTimeWarnerCablewarnerwarner brosWarnerBrosThu, 14 Aug 2008 14:41:00 EST<![CDATA[DISH Network might attempt DirecTV merger again?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/06/dish-network-might-attempt-directv-merger-again/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/06/dish-network-might-attempt-directv-merger-again/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/06/dish-network-might-attempt-directv-merger-again/#comments
DirecTV and DISH Network trying to get together again? That's the idea according to the Wall Street Journal, apparently in response to DISH making "a major strategic shift" after losing 25,000 subscribers in Q2. Of course the last time these two tried U + me = Us back in 2001, regulators put the smackdown on the idea, but apparently DISH CEO Charlie Ergen thinks things may be different now. We can see how a 90% drop in subscriber growth (and a blown satellite or two) could cause anyone to reevaluate things, but as our extensive experience watching daytime TV proves, running into a new relationship to escape ones problems never works out long term, but it is interesting to see if either is really willing to stop the constant one-upmanship and concentrate on taking on the cable (& telco) companies together.

[Thanks, Adam]

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DISH Network might attempt DirecTV merger again? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charlie ergenCharlieErgendirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkhdtvmergersatelliteWed, 06 Aug 2008 19:39:00 EST<![CDATA[DISH Network might attempt DirecTV merger again?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/06/dish-network-might-attempt-directv-merger-again/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/06/dish-network-might-attempt-directv-merger-again/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/06/dish-network-might-attempt-directv-merger-again/#comments
DirecTV and DISH Network trying to get together again? That's the idea according to the Wall Street Journal, apparently in response to DISH making "a major strategic shift" after losing 25,000 subscribers in Q2. Of course the last time these two tried U + me = Us back in 2001, regulators put the smackdown on the idea, but apparently DISH CEO Charlie Ergen thinks things may be different now. We can see how a 90% drop in subscriber growth (and a blown satellite or two) could cause anyone to reevaluate things, but as our extensive experience watching daytime TV proves, running into a new relationship to escape ones problems never works out long term, but it is interesting to see if either is really willing to stop the constant one-upmanship and concentrate on taking on the cable (& telco) companies together.

[Thanks, Adam]

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DISH Network might attempt DirecTV merger again? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvdishdish networkDishNetworkhdmergersatellitewsjWed, 06 Aug 2008 19:39:00 EST<![CDATA[DISH to have 150 HD channels this year and 1080p VOD in August]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/31/dish-to-have-150-hd-channels-this-year-and-1080p-vod-in-august/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/31/dish-to-have-150-hd-channels-this-year-and-1080p-vod-in-august/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/31/dish-to-have-150-hd-channels-this-year-and-1080p-vod-in-august/#commentsTake that DirecTV, you announce 1080p "this year" and 130 HD channels in August and DISH one ups you with an announcement that it'll start offering 1080p VOD in August -- but DirecTV fanboys will take some comfort in the fact that DirecTV's latest bird started broadcasting HD channels today, while Echostar XI won't start for a few more months. Either way, this is good for everyone, but based on both company's track record, we tend to take DISH's word over DirecTV's -- after the whole CES 07 lie. DISH subscribers with MPEG-4 HD DVRs should receive an update in the next two weeks that will allow them access the 1080p VOD movies, such as I Am Legend. The release also goes on about how the quality will be "same as Blu-ray Disc quality," but we'll believe that one when we see it for ourselves.

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DISH to have 150 HD channels this year and 1080p VOD in August originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 Jul 2008 10:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pDirecTVDISHDISH NetworkDishNetworkhdMPEG-4new contentnewcontentsatelliteThu, 31 Jul 2008 10:23:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T picks DISH as new best friend]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/04/atandt-picks-dish-as-new-best-friend/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/04/atandt-picks-dish-as-new-best-friend/http://www.engadget.com/2008/04/04/atandt-picks-dish-as-new-best-friend/#commentsAT&T picks DISH as new best friendThe sometimes funny relationship between AT&T, DISH and DirecTV reminds us of pesky fourth grade decisions of the "who's your one, bestest friend?" variety. The makeups and breakups even have the same air of fickleness, too. AT&T has officially phased out its reselling of DirecTV for 2008, but is keeping its relationship with DISH. Don't get comfy, though -- mum's the word on AT&T's plans for 2009. The move makes DISH the exclusive satellite provider for AT&T's primary markets. Like all biz relationships, this one's all about convenience (and prior commitments); it's safe to assume that if AT&T is able to execute its 2008 plans for U-verse it will scale back ties to competitor's products. But, the "triple play" package is an asset that we don't expect AT&T to jeopardize, even if it makes for uneasy friends.

[Image courtesy GiftsByExpressions]

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AT&T picks DISH as new best friend originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Apr 2008 04:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfiberhdsatellitetriple playTriplePlayu-verseuverseFri, 04 Apr 2008 04:59:00 EST<![CDATA[PBS pushes FCC for carriage on DISH]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/05/pbs-pushes-fcc-for-carriage-on-dish/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/05/pbs-pushes-fcc-for-carriage-on-dish/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/05/pbs-pushes-fcc-for-carriage-on-dish/#commentsSesame Street gang
It seems the Sesame Street gang is pissed at DISH Network. Once the analog shutoff occurs next year, FCC Chairman Martin wants to hold DirecTV and DISH to a "non-discrimination" rule -- they cannot carry some HD locals, but not others. However, if a carrier can demonstrate that it has limited capacity that prevents it from going live with all the channels at once, the FCC can grant a waiver. As the FCC is getting ready to vote on these waivers, PBS and the Association for Public Television Stations (APTS) have taken the opportunity to point out that DISH has "...refused to negotiate in good faith for carriage of local public television signals in HD." The real salt in the wound is that PBS can point to its carriage deal with DirecTV as a counter-example, but we'll see how this is balanced out against PBS's announced HD rollout plans.

[Image courtesy Cynical-C]

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PBS pushes FCC for carriage on DISH originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 04:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DirecTVDISH networkDishNetworkFCChdKevin MartinKevinMartinPBSsatelliteWed, 05 Mar 2008 04:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget HD definitively answers: does cable, satellite, or fiber provide more HD?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/07/engadget-hd-definitively-answers-does-cable-satellite-or-fibe/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/07/engadget-hd-definitively-answers-does-cable-satellite-or-fibe/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/07/engadget-hd-definitively-answers-does-cable-satellite-or-fibe/#comments
You want to know -- nay, you deserve to know -- which service provides the most HD content. Engadget HD's got the answer, see how your HD provider stacks up.

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Engadget HD definitively answers: does cable, satellite, or fiber provide more HD? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 07 Feb 2008 01:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdattbestbright housebright house networksBrightHouseBrightHouseNetworkscablecomcastcomparecomparisondirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfiberfios tvFiosTvhdtvrcnsatellitesuddenlinktime warnertime warner cableTimeWarnerTimeWarnerCabletruthtwcu-verseverizonThu, 07 Feb 2008 01:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: Does cable, satellite, or fiber provide more HD?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/06/ask-engadget-hd-does-cable-satellite-or-fiber-provide-more-hd/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/06/ask-engadget-hd-does-cable-satellite-or-fiber-provide-more-hd/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/06/ask-engadget-hd-does-cable-satellite-or-fiber-provide-more-hd/#comments
Particularly of late, cable television providers have been bullying each other on the air and proudly proclaiming superiority in the high-definition department. One would immediately assume that there's some black and white somewhere in this equation, but honestly, things are pretty gray. Hard though it may be to believe, there actually isn't a clear cut answer to this week's Ask Engadget HD question, which comes to us from the bewildered mind of Brian:

"I want an unbiased opinion, and more importantly, the facts. DISH Network is looking more and more like the leading HD provider with its weekly HD additions this past fall. However, now my local cable provider, Comcast, is running ads stating that it has More, More, More HD. My question is simple: who has more HD channels including and not including HD VOD?"

The inability to find a clear cut answer hasn't stopped us from forging ahead in the past, and it won't be slowing us down today, either. Ready to plunge deep into the increasingly murky waters of HD offerings? Join us after the jump as we take a critical look at high-def options from DirecTV, DISH Network, Verizon, AT&T and a slew of traditional cable operators in order to best address the above inquiry.

Continue reading Ask Engadget HD: Does cable, satellite, or fiber provide more HD?

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Ask Engadget HD: Does cable, satellite, or fiber provide more HD? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdattbright housebright house networksBrightHouseBrightHouseNetworkscablecomcastcomparisondirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfeaturesfiberfios tvFiosTvhdinternetotarcnsatellitesuddenlinktime warnertime warner cableTimeWarnerTimeWarnerCabletwcu-verseverizonWed, 06 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: DISH Network or DirecTV?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/12/ask-engadget-hd-dish-network-or-directv/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/12/ask-engadget-hd-dish-network-or-directv/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/12/ask-engadget-hd-dish-network-or-directv/#comments
It's a question that's as old as the service itself, but as each wave of updates passes, the answer can vary wildly. Case in point: just days ago at CES, DISH Network unveiled its 100 HD channels / 100 markets initiative, essentially throwing the ball back in DirecTV's court. Of course, the back-and-forth between the two sat providers is nothing but beneficial for end users, but we still believe that there is enough differentiation between the two to give users something to debate. That said, we present Keith's totally timely inquiry:

"I live in Austin, Texas and I'm considering both DirecTV and DISH Network. For me, it basically comes down to channel lineup versus hardware. Though I like DirecTV's channel selection more, from all the research I've done, DISH has the better HD DVR. I am leaning towards DISH because I think adding more HD channels is much easier than manufacturing and then distributing a new receiver. What do you guys think? Am I off base here?"

We'll be straight with you -- we're not looking to incite any sort of flame war with the above question. Indeed, it's a legitimate concern that a myriad individuals mull over on a daily basis. So we're posing the question to you, and we're looking for your input on the performance of your HD DVR, the general quality of service, appearance of HD channels and overall satisfaction. C'mon -- give poor Keith some advice to keep him from tearing any more patches of hair out, would ya?

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

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Ask Engadget HD: DISH Network or DirecTV? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 12 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askask engadget dhask engadget hdAskEngadgetHdcomparisondirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkfeatureshdsatelliteSat, 12 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NBA TV HD launches on DirecTV and DISH]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/01/nba-tv-hd-launches-on-directv-and-dish/http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/01/nba-tv-hd-launches-on-directv-and-dish/http://www.engadget.com/2007/11/01/nba-tv-hd-launches-on-directv-and-dish/#commentsNBA TV HD
Just in time for the start of the NBA season, NBA TV HD launches on both DirecTV and DISH Network. Every major sports league needs their own channel and now NBA steps up to HD, bringing over 70 national HD games to their subscribers. In addition, they'll have 24 hours of programming, but who knows how much of that will actually be HD. At this point we've lost count of how many HD channels these two providers carry and wonder how many big time NBA fans are going to give up on their cable provider -- assuming they haven't already.

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NBA TV HD launches on DirecTV and DISH originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 10:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DirecTVDISHDish networkDishNetworkhdNBA TVNBA TV HDNbaTvNbaTvHdnew contentnewcontentThu, 01 Nov 2007 10:11:00 EST<![CDATA[NHL Network prepares for US launch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/11/nhl-network-prepares-for-us-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/11/nhl-network-prepares-for-us-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/11/nhl-network-prepares-for-us-launch/#commentsIt's a fantastic, albeit hectic time to be a sports fan right now, as there just seems to be too many good matchups going on to truly enjoy them all. Additionally, the NHL season is just now getting underway, and for those who eat, sleep and breath cross-checking, we've got stellar news. Reportedly, the 24-hour NHL Network will launch on several communications outlets this month, including Comcast, DirectTV and Dish Network. All told, it should be available to around 75 million homes across the US, but exact launch dates on the aforementioned carriers have yet to be pinpointed. Notably, Dish Network stated that it was targeting October 17th as the channel's first on-air date, and a spokesperson even mentioned that it would "only be available in high-definition." Hey, it won't hurt our feelings.

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NHL Network prepares for US launch originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Oct 2007 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcastdirectvdishdish networkDishNetworkhdhockeyNHLNHL NetworkNhlNetworksportsThu, 11 Oct 2007 23:54:00 EST<![CDATA[The History Channel HD launched, but where was DirecTV?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/06/the-history-channel-hd-launched-but-where-was-directv/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/06/the-history-channel-hd-launched-but-where-was-directv/http://www.engadget.com/2007/09/06/the-history-channel-hd-launched-but-where-was-directv/#commentsIn the world of tech news, there's plenty of vaporware. Un-fulfilled promises run ramped and like everyone else, sometimes we forget. But as commenter Kenny G points out, the History Channel HD launched yesterday on DISH network and DirecTV wasn't there to see it. Sure, DirecTV 10 isn't operational just yet, and they'll probably have more HD than anyone else by the end of this month, but that doesn't change the fact that they were touting how proud they'd be, to be the first to carry the History Channel in HD. We're sure DirecTV wished we'd missed this, but no such luck thanks to Kenny.

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The History Channel HD launched, but where was DirecTV? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DirectvDISHDish NetworkDishNetworkhdnew contentnewcontentsatelliteThe History ChannelTheHistoryChannelThu, 06 Sep 2007 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[EchoStar beats Forgent's patent suit, makes chumps out of DirecTV et al.]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/10/echostar-beats-forgents-patent-suit-makes-chumps-out-of-direct/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/10/echostar-beats-forgents-patent-suit-makes-chumps-out-of-direct/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/10/echostar-beats-forgents-patent-suit-makes-chumps-out-of-direct/#commentsEchoStar's just making everybody else look bad. After DirecTV and the cable companies caved to Forgent's patent demands and settled out of court to the tune of $28 million, EchoStar (Dish Network's parent company) has bested Forgent in court, and a judge yesterday denied Forgent a new trial. EchoStar is getting $90k for its trouble. This follows a jury verdict in May which invalidated Forgent's patent, which pertained to digital video recorders.

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EchoStar beats Forgent's patent suit, makes chumps out of DirecTV et al. originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvdish networkDishNetworkechostarforgentFri, 10 Aug 2007 20:18:00 EST<![CDATA[EchoStar beats Forgent's patent suit, makes chumps out of DirecTV et al.]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/10/echostar-beats-forgents-patent-suit-makes-chumps-out-of-direct/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/10/echostar-beats-forgents-patent-suit-makes-chumps-out-of-direct/http://www.engadget.com/2007/08/10/echostar-beats-forgents-patent-suit-makes-chumps-out-of-direct/#commentsEchoStar's just making everybody else look bad. After DirecTV and the cable companies caved to Forgent's patent demands and setteled out of court to the tune of $28 million, EchoStar (Dish Network's parent company) has bested Forgent in court, and a judge yesterday denied Forgent a new trial. EchoStar is getting $90k for its trouble. This follows a jury verdict in May which invalidated Forgent's patent, which pertained to digital video recorders.

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EchoStar beats Forgent's patent suit, makes chumps out of DirecTV et al. originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 20:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directvdish networkDishNetworkechostarforgenthdrecorderssatelliteFri, 10 Aug 2007 20:18:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV whines over HD survey results, sues Comcast for false advertising]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/19/directv-whines-over-hd-survey-results-sues-comcast-for-false-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/19/directv-whines-over-hd-survey-results-sues-comcast-for-false-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/19/directv-whines-over-hd-survey-results-sues-comcast-for-false-ad/#comments
You're probably familiar with the old adage that getting sued just isn't satisfying enough until you take someone else to court over the exact thing that you're being accused of, but even if you're not, DirecTV's here to refresh your memory. The satellite TV provider has apparently scrunched up its nose at a recent promotional advertising campaign in which Comcast claims that two-thirds of satellite customers felt "Comcast delivered a better HD image" when compared to DirecTV and Dish Network alternatives. Not believing that we oh-so-capable humans might be able to actually perceive the difference when an HD feed is somewhat crippled, DirecTV decided that the results mustn't be correct, and suggested that the "survey upon which Comcast relies does not provide or sufficiently substantiate the propositions for which Comcast cites the survey," and concludes by boldly proclaiming that all of the claims "are literally false." Of course, Comcast is standing strong behind its results for the time being, and while either party could most certainly have a case against the other, why are we using cash for HD channel expansion to pay legal teams?

[Via TGDaily]

DirecTV whines over HD survey results, sues Comcast for false advertising originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 May 2007 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisementadvertisingcomcastconflictcourtdirectvdish networkDishNetworkechostarfalse advertisingFalseAdvertisingfightfuedlawsuitlegalmarketingmisleadingpromotionsuesuitSat, 19 May 2007 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV whines over HD survey results, sues Comcast for false advertising]]>http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/19/directv-whines-over-hd-survey-results-sues-comcast-for-false-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/19/directv-whines-over-hd-survey-results-sues-comcast-for-false-ad/http://www.engadget.com/2007/05/19/directv-whines-over-hd-survey-results-sues-comcast-for-false-ad/#comments
You're probably familiar with the old adage that getting sued just isn't satisfying enough until you take someone else to court over the exact thing that you're being accused of, but even if you're not, DirecTV's here to refresh your memory. The satellite TV provider has apparently scrunched up its nose at a recent promotional advertising campaign in which Comcast claims that two-thirds of satellite customers felt "Comcast delivered a better HD image" when compared to DirecTV and Dish Network alternatives. Not believing that we oh-so-capable humans might be able to actually perceive the difference when an HD feed is somewhat crippled, DirecTV decided that the results mustn't be correct, and suggested that the "survey upon which Comcast relies does not provide or sufficiently substantiate the propositions for which Comcast cites the survey," and concludes by boldly proclaiming that all of the claims "are literally false." Of course, Comcast is standing strong behind its results for the time being, and while either party could most certainly have a case against the other, why are we using cash for HD channel expansion to pay legal teams?

[Via TGDaily]

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DirecTV whines over HD survey results, sues Comcast for false advertising originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 May 2007 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisementadvertisingcablecomcastconflictcourtdirectvdish networkDishNetworkechostarfalse advertisingFalseAdvertisingfightfuedhdlawsuitlegalmarketingmisleadingpromotionsatellitesuesuitSat, 19 May 2007 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[National Geographic committed to high-def]]>http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/national-geographic-committed-to-high-def/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/national-geographic-committed-to-high-def/http://www.engadget.com/2006/09/26/national-geographic-committed-to-high-def/#commentsTV Week had the opportunity to talk shop with National Geographic's executive VP of programming John Ford. Mr. Ford was the one responsible for all the high-def programming on Discover HD Theater and now he is trying to do the same for National Geographic HD. Currently the majority of their viewers come via Dish Network and only reach in the mid hundreds of thousands, but that hasn't stopped the station from their commitment to 100% HD footage. The whole interview is mainly standard stock with the exception of some large distribution partner that has yet to be announced but is set to launch at the end of September. Large you say, hmm, couldn't be DIRECTV as they can't handle the HD stations they already have and Dish Network already has the channel, so would it be safe to say Comcast, being the other large provider, might start broadcasting National Geographic HD within the coming weeks? Only time, and insiders, will tell but we will take all the new HDTV stations we can get.

[via Home Theater Blog]

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National Geographic committed to high-def originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Sep 2006 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabledaytimedirectvdish networkDishNetworkhdnational geographic channelNationalGeographicChannelsatelliteTue, 26 Sep 2006 10:57:00 EST