Department of the Obvious (Blockbuster, Netflix)

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

New DirecTV TiVo Beta Underway?

In case you didn’t believe a new DirecTV TiVo is really under development, check out these purported beta invitation and rejection email messages: Thank you for your interest in TiVo’s beta programs. We’d like to invite you to join the Field Trials Team in beta testing hardware provided to you by TiVo. To participate you should … Read more

Sonos Introduces Wireless iPhone & iPod Dock

Sonos announced an addition to their hardware lineup today in the form of a new wireless dock. If you have a Sonos whole-home audio solution you probably already know that your iPhone and iPod touch can be used as a free remote control on your Sonos.  And you’ve been able to plug your iPod into … Read more

Join the New Xbox Live Preview (ESPN!)

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

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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A Canadian’s Perspective on Netflix Streaming

This week, Netflix launched its long awaited and much coveted Netflix Canada service. Unfortunately, the content selection cupboard is mostly bare. The limited offerings (and lack of DVD service) explains the $7.99 Cdn per month price. The minimum monthly fee that Americans pay for their Netflix service is $9.95 US. For that they get a DVD-by-mail … Read more

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

Verizon’s Take on the Home Management Market

Apparently we should have all eyes glued to the home management space over the next year. Verizon is the latest to jump on the bandwagon saying it will launch a “connected home service” in the near future for controlling functions like lighting, temperature, and home security automatically. Details are scarce, which makes me wonder if … Read more