Gadgets

Hulu Plus on Roku all but Confirmed

There are rumors, and even confirmation to a certain degree, that suggest Roku will be getting Hulu Plus capabilities soon.  Depending on timing, this could be a coup for Roku (hardware starts at a $60) and one more online streaming capability they’d boast. GigaOM/NewTeeVee says the deal is done, confirmed via a Roku partner web page for … Read more

Roku Refreshes Hardware Lineup (XD)

As expected, Roku’s unveiling a slightly refreshed media streaming hardware lineup this fall. The new XD and XD|S join the original HD model, while the SD and HD-XR are put to pasture. But instead of spelling it out in paragraph form, take a gander at this handy comparison chart (click to enlarge):

Basically, the higher-end XD and XDS models improve upon the HD unit with 802.11n and 1080p playback and display capabilities – how ya like them 720p Apples now? Kidding aside, not many streaming services utilize 1080p. Yet? Additionally, the XD|S features component output via an optional accessory cable, optical audio, dual band wireless connectivity for greater range, and a USB port of still limited value. I’m told the XD and XDS guts are quite similar to the also USB-equipped HD-XR from the prior lineup. But the exterior looks somewhat different…

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Samsung Galaxy Tab versus Apple iPad?

In the lead up to release, it’s natural to draw comparisons between Samsung’s Android tablet and Apple’s best selling iPad. At the same time, it may be a bit premature. Specifically, PC World has put together a pair of posts, one each for and against the iPad over the Galaxy Tab. And “Five Reasons to … Read more

The Kindle 3 Upgrade Question

I’d intended to upgrade to the Kindle 3 prior to my cruise, but missed out on pre-ordering when Amazon ran out of inventory. What interested me most from the e-reader refresh is the higher contrast screen and the clever lighted cover accessory. Plus, I figured I could get away with a WiFi only model ($139, versus $189).

However, now that the initial excitement (and my cruise) has passed the impulse to purchase has subsided. The fact is, I don’t read many novels in a given year — averaging less than one a month. So my current Kindle (v2) is probably sufficient. Although I may pick up a third party light of some sort and do hope some of the v3 software tweaks make their way down to my hardware.

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Where’s the Vulkano Review?

Several of you have checked in with me, wondering if or when I’ll be taking a look at the multi-function Vulkano — a device that is something more than a Slingbox-esque placeshifter, by also incorporating recording capabilities along with local media and Internet video streaming to a television. And I can tell you my review … Read more

Dave’s Vacation Tech

For the first time in 2010, I left town without my laptop… and mostly stepped off the grid. Fortuitous timing I suppose, as the NY Times recently suggested that digital downtime is good for the brain. And while I did savor about 5 days of R&R, several at sea, you know I wouldn’t leave town completely tech-free. When we … Read more

FCC Reveals New Roku XD and Netgear Roku XD

Once again the FCC has given us a sneak peek of gadgets to come. Bloggers over at Wireless Goodness (via Engadget) have found listings for a Roku XD and a Netgear Roku XD. No official word on what these boxes are designed to do yet, but we can only assume that whole-home networking is part … Read more

Next Generation SageTV HTPC Extender Arrives

Over the past several years SageTV has been able to differentiate itself within the home theater PC (HTPC) crowd by offering dedicated hardware. Their last extender and media player – the SageTV HD Theater HD200 was a definite success and considered top of the class when it comes to HTPC extenders.  But the HD200 has been … Read more