Last month PlayOn got tired of waiting for Apple to launch a native iOS app for its streaming audio and video service, so the company introduced a web-based version using HTML5. But Apple has since decided to relax some of its App Store rules, and now there’s an official PlayOn app available for download. It’s free, and … Read more
It turns out that the new Apple TV ($99) runs the same basic iOS operating system as the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. It’s just locked down a little tighter so that there’s no official way to install third party apps (yet?). And instead of displaying the typical iOS program launcher, AppleTV runs an app … Read more
A periodic roundup of relevant news… from our other blogs: Spotify Shows Up on IPTV Set-Tops Motorola has been showing off its latest IPTV hardware and software out at IBC, and it looks like Spotify made its first on-screen appearance. New Remote Controls at IBC The big focus at IBC for Motorola was the introduction … Read more
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
Apple has launched version 2.0 of its Remote app for iOS. In a nutshell, Apple Remote lets you use your iPhone or iPod touch as a remote control for iTunes on your computer or an Apple TV set top box. Version 2.0 adds support for the Retina display on the latest iPhone and iPod touch. … Read more
I think we’ve finally found a solid use for Roku’s limited USB support… My buddy Tim has been struggling to find an efficient way to pipe his Flip UltraHD videos to the television and his first stop was the Xbox. And, for whatever reason, his 360 delivered stuttering 720p video when the Flip was directly … Read more
This week in Department of the Obvious, we find Blockbuster filing for bankruptcy. The only possible surprise is that it took this long. As chapter 11 was the inevitable outcome after failing to modernize their operation quickly enough and, in my experience, providing years of poor customer service. Fortunately, for them, they intend to emerge … Read more
Word’s out that Microsoft is now accepting volunteers for their latest Xbox Live Preview program… The Preview Program will give you the chance to check out ESPN on Xbox LIVE, Zune music, Netflix search, the new Xbox LIVE dashboard, and new updates to Zune video and Family Settings on your Xbox 360. Of course, there … Read more