Both TiVo and Sling had tables at the Digital Experience press event last night, so with about ten minutes left in the show I was able to sneak away for more details on the forthcoming TiVo Desktop PC software. Perhaps I’m overtired, because when I had originally received the embargoed press release on Saturday I just didn’t have a handle on what’s new with this transcoding functionality. Having seen it in action, it’s much clearer…
TiVo Desktop 2.6 allows you to monitor a folder of video – which is automagically transcoded and transferred to a networked TiVo. What’s new is the whole element of automation… Here’s one of example of how you might put this to use: Subscribe to various video podcasts via iTunes, have TiVo Desktop monitor that folder, and specify the number of videos (of each podcast) the TiVo should store (as shown above). Once that setup is complete, whenever your PC is powered up new videos are automatically transcoded and transfered – meaning, video content resides on the TiVo and doesn’t require the PC stay powered on for television playback.
I can’t say most customers will utilize this feature or get the concept, but it’s a nice-to-have feature for those that do. And something no other DVR provides. (If you already have a TiVo, it’s also much cheaper than investing in an Apple TV.) TiVo Desktop 2.6 is due in March, and as before, transcoding carries a $24.95 fee. Current TiVo Desktop Plus licensees will receive a free upgrade.