Just a few weeks back we heard noise of Google heading into the set-top box space. With DISH Network. At the time, it wasn’t clear if this was merely a rehashing of the upcoming DISH apps or a more significant Android set-top platform play. As it turns out, it does look like Google aims to … Read more
At MIX10, Microsoft’s developer conference, in addition to Pandora, Sling and Xbox gaming, it looks like the new Windows Phone 7 platform may also host a Netflix streaming video app in their upcoming marketplace. Given Netflix’s previous integration of MS video and DRM technologies (Windows, Silverlight, Xbox), today’s demo shouldn’t come as any surprise. I … Read more
Seems the blogosphere got itself into a bit of a lather upon learning DISH and Google were collaborating on set-top box functionality, including search and YouTube video. But anyone who follows DISH/EchoStar shouldn’t be entirely surprised… Just check out the picture I shot of DISH’s app store (above) at CES 2009 on their yet-to-be-released VIP … Read more
Zillion TV continues to sputter along… Originally backed by a few studios, amongst others, in what sounded like a “Hulu box”, the startup has seen all manner of turmoil. Including blown 2009 launch plans, a restructured sales model, a CEO replacement, and unflattering commentary by pilot testers. However, buried within a lawsuit (more turmoil!), we’ve … Read more
TiVo, blah blah, TiVo, blah blah blah. Let’s move on to something important, like March Madness. ;) With the best month in college basketball kicking into gear, I thought I’d take a look at my options for following all of the NCAA action. First up is the official March Madness On Demand Player from CBS … Read more
I’ve been obsessively following the Moxi HD DVR AVS thread these last few weeks while awaiting my loaner Moxi Mate. (It’s here, I’m pleased.) And it’s amazing the things one finds in the forums. A ding against Moxi, compared to a cableco DVR or TiVo, has been a lack of video-on-demand (VOD) offerings. Now it … Read more
Cablevision has always danced to the beat of a different drummer. Unfortunately, their ambitious (and quite logical) network DVR was tied up in a costly, multiyear battle with the studios. Now they’re at it again and will surely ruffle feathers as they pilot a “PC to TV Media Relay” service this summer. Basically, Windows software … Read more
Wow. The rumor was true. Wal-mart is indeed acquiring Vudu. Given their prior failed attempt at digital media distribution and MediaMemo’s way-off financing stat, I had a difficult time buying it. But the deal is done – so congrats to the Vudu team. Vudu’s story arc is interesting. From the beginning, and like many, I … Read more