While TiVo is crushing it with cable partnerships and licensing deals, the retail DVR picture isn’t so rosy. And, for the first time since 2004, they’ve dropped below 1 million subscribers. Having received nearly universal praise, I imagine the company believes they’re posed to turn the tide with the newly released Roamio. Yet, TiVo indicated to investors that they intend to reduce R&D expenditures and that Roamio hardware generates “better hardware margins” for the company (despite a billion in the bank).
There’s no question in my mind that TiVo will see solid sales this fall and through the holidays… it’s what happens after that’ll determine their retail fate. Surely more over-the-top apps, out-of-home streaming, and Android streaming support would be a good start. But TiVo may also find they need to lower prices/fees for sustained expansion of their customer base.
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Yep, lower fees are a must. I won't touch TiVo without it. Even with a break even point in 3-4 years when buying the lifetime service (compared to renting FiOS cable boxes), it's not worth it for us. Even with the compelling new features.
What???? Rolling out model after model of basically the same thing with a higher price tag and more tuners isn't flying off the shelves? People aren't lined up to hand money out to Tivo?
Let me give you my take from a disgruntled (and almost 15 year customer).
* Basically the same UI since day one.
* HD menus are unusable (Premiere). Sluggish and unresponsive.
* Apps (like Spotify) are excruciatingly slow
* Cablecard support in my area (Midwest / Cox Communications) is non-existent
* Monthly subscription is on the high side. I pay $25 for two Tivo's with just OTA connections. That's ridiculous for guide info for 10 channels.
* Too many negative aspects of the lifetime subscription model. I seem to always read about Tivo cancelling people's subscriptions, or not honoring new models, etc. Not sure how true it all is, but it's out there.
* 10 minute boot time. Seriously? It's a PC.(?)
Yeah yeah yeah, someone can come along and dispute all these points, I don't care, but it's what keeps me from continually looking for alternatives. As soon as the litigation money runs out, I predict Tivo is toast. The only thing I hate worse than giving Tivo $25 for a subscription is using a Motorola DVR. :^(
android suport isn't going to help -- this is the US after all.
it is about pricing.
I've offered to come back in on a 2 year premiere + buying a stream for 199 + stream, no interest.