Sony announces XDV-100 portable 1seg TV

Even though 1seg digital TV hasn't really taken off as some might have hoped -- poor reception underground and in moving vehicles renders it nearly useless for Japanese commuters -- manufacturers keep on stuffing this feature into cellphones, PMPs, and portable GPS receivers. Most times the extra tuner is little more than a "value-added" function, but with Sony's new XDV-100 modern-day Watchman, 1seg is the main attraction. At 2.8 inches, though, the screen isn't much bigger than some of your larger smartphones, and the 320 x 240 resolution is certainly nothing you wouldn't find on any number of other devices. Your 40,000 yen also get you a docking cradle and AM / FM radio, which would seem to be the least they could throw in for almost $340. If for some reason you feel like dropping serious cash for a tiny set that you'll only be watching near the window of your Japanese hotel room, April 10th is when the black-or-silver XDV-100 hits stores.

[kingofwale @ Mar 14th 2007 11:58AM]

well, You have to give Sony credits for trying. lol

[sdsdv10 @ Mar 14th 2007 1:28PM]

Seriously, has all the management at Sony become brain dead?

If the limitations of the digital TV system outlined in the article are even partially correct, why is Sony trying to launch this "expensive" single purpose unit into such a potentially crowded segment.

[Jay @ Mar 14th 2007 7:56PM]

sdsdv10,

Er, why would the segment be "crowded" if the technology is limited?

Constant Sony-bashing does cause you guys to lose touch with reality, don't it?

[sdsdv10 @ Mar 15th 2007 9:44AM]

Jay,

Er, the technology isn't limited this piece of equipment is, as noted in the article. Did Sony do any testing? Did they note this limitation? If not, why not? If they did find it, why not try to fix it?

Secondly, if the digitial TV portion of this device doesn't work as advertised, then well it becomes just another PVP (personal video player) or DAP (digital music player). In that arena, there is a great deal of competition for Apple, Creative, MS (Zune), SanDisk, the PDA manufactures and the smart phone companies.

Looking to charge >$300 for a device whose main advantage (digital TV) is of very limited use is just a bad decision. I'm not a Sony basher, as I own many Sony products, DV camera, 3 TV's an old cassette Walkman etc. Regardless, if Sony doesn't change both is strategy and execution here pretty soon I think they will find themselves in a heap of financial trouble. Just my thougths...

[Jay @ Mar 15th 2007 7:48PM]

sdsdv10,

You suggested the technology may be limited, not me:

"If the limitations of the digital TV system outlined in the article ....."