Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Microsoft talks DVD, Media Center support in Windows 8 and why most won't miss it]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/05/windows 8-media-center-dvd-blu-ray-dolby/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/05/windows 8-media-center-dvd-blu-ray-dolby/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/05/windows 8-media-center-dvd-blu-ray-dolby/#comments

If you have to issue an explanation to follow up an explanation, then it's pretty safe to say the first one wasn't clear enough, and it's under those circumstances that Microsoft's Steven Sinofsky and the Windows 8 team are returning to the subject of Media Center and DVD movie support. After addressing both a few days ago, the internet backlash was (predictably) quick to finding out that Media Center would be available only as an upgrade to the Pro version of the OS, and that without it Windows wouldn't natively play DVDs. What many may not know however, and the new FAQ points out, is that this is not an entirely new thing -- Windows XP did not have support outside of specialized editions or add-ons, several versions of Vista did not play DVDs and on Windows 7 the Basic and Starter editions lacked the add-on. Of course, for most users this doesn't matter in the least since brand new PCs tend to ship with third party software to play DVDs (or Blu-ray movies where applicable, which no version of Windows has or will natively support). Answering the question we had of what this means for users upgrading their own computers, they'll either need to see if they have existing third party software to play DVDs that is compatible with Windows 8, or acquire Media Center post-upgrade.

Continue reading Microsoft talks DVD, Media Center support in Windows 8 and why most won't miss it

Microsoft talks DVD, Media Center support in Windows 8 and why most won't miss it originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 05 May 2012 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raycablecardcodecdvdhdpostminihtpclicensingmedia centermedia pcMediaCenterMediaPcmicrosoftwindows 7windows 8Windows 8 Media Centerwindows media centerwindows vistawindows xpWindows7Windows8Windows8MediaCenterWindowsMediaCenterWindowsVistaWindowsXpSat, 05 May 2012 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft breaks down Windows 8's Media Center upgrade path, Dolby codec support]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/microsoft-breaks-down-windows-8s-media-center-upgrade-path-dol/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/microsoft-breaks-down-windows-8s-media-center-upgrade-path-dol/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/microsoft-breaks-down-windows-8s-media-center-upgrade-path-dol/#comments Windows 8 Media Center

Many in the Windows Media Center community were afraid that Windows 8 would mark the end of Media Center, while others thought it would be like Notepad -- present, but unchanged. In the end both were wrong as Microsoft announced Media Center would be available as an add-on to Windows 8. Until now though, we didn't know exactly how that process would work. Steven Sinofsky outlined on the Building Windows 8 blog how users will be able to use Add Features to Windows 8 in Control Panel and purchase the same great Media Center experience that was included in Windows 7 Premium and Pro. The price is still unannounced but is expect to be "in line with marginal costs" -- whatever that means. The price paid will cover the royalties for the required codecs to support broadcast TV and DVD playback (DVDs still won't play in Media Player). One codec that will be supported in all version of Windows 8, but will require the computer maker to license the codec directly, is Dolby Digital Plus. So yeah, something else that was included in Windows 7 for free. We're glad it's there, but wish we'd get something new for the new premium price. Like most, we'll probably hold on to our Windows 7 HTPC a little bit longer.

Continue reading Microsoft breaks down Windows 8's Media Center upgrade path, Dolby codec support

Microsoft breaks down Windows 8's Media Center upgrade path, Dolby codec support originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 May 2012 20:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add features to windows 8AddFeaturesToWindows8armaudiocodecDolbyDolby Digital PlusDolbyDigitalPlusfeatureshdpostcrosshtpcMedia Centermedia pcMediaCenterMediaPcMicrosoftpcsTablets PCTabletsPcupgradeWindows 8Windows 8 Media Centerwindows anytime upgradewindows media centerWindows8Windows8MediaCenterWindowsAnytimeUpgradeWindowsMediaCenterThu, 03 May 2012 20:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Ceton previews DVR companion apps on Android and iOS, teases Echo beta 'soon']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/ceton-mobile-apps-android-iphone-echo-beta/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/ceton-mobile-apps-android-iphone-echo-beta/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/17/ceton-mobile-apps-android-iphone-echo-beta/#comments Ceton previews DVR companion apps on Android and iOS, teases Echo beta 'soon'

A quick stop by the Intel pavilion here at NAB 2012 revealed our friends from Ceton hiding within, and even though we just saw the Q DVR and Echo companion extender on our last trip to Vegas a few months ago, there's a few new items to show already. As shown above, the mobile companion app that we had only seen so far on Windows Phone 7 is also up and running on Android and iOS. While the apps are still very early in their development they're already running smoothly with metadata provided by Rovi and the usual set of features for DVR scheduling and management. Each one is designed specifically for the platform it's running on, rather than pulling the same UI from one device to all. This seems like a good approach to us, but Ceton's looking for feedback from potential users about what they might prefer. Speaking of potential users -- all those interested in this hardware should keep an eye out as we're told that the plan is to have a beta for the DTS-compatible Echo extender "soon", likely within a few weeks.

Ceton previews DVR companion apps on Android and iOS, teases Echo beta 'soon' originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcetonCeton EchoCeton QCetonEchoCetonQcompanion appCompanionAppdvrdvr schedulingDvrSchedulingechoextenderhdpostcrossiosmedia centerMediaCenternabnab 2012Nab2012qWindows 7 Embeddedwindows phone 7Windows7EmbeddedWindowsPhone7wp7Tue, 17 Apr 2012 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft outs three flavors of Windows 8: Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro and Windows RT]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/microsoft-outs-three-flavors-of-windows-8-windows-8-windows-8/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/microsoft-outs-three-flavors-of-windows-8-windows-8-windows-8/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/microsoft-outs-three-flavors-of-windows-8-windows-8-windows-8/#comments Microsoft outs three flavors of Windows 8: Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro and Windows RT

We've known for what feels like ages that Windows 8 would come in at least two flavors: one supporting x86 devices and one for ARM machines. Now Microsoft's ready to put a naming scheme on its much-anticipated menu for the operating system. According to a post on the Windows blog, ARM devices will get Windows RT, while x86 / 64 devices will run Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro (also for x86 devices) will offer the suit-and-tie set added features for "encryption, virtualization, PC management and domain connectivity." Windows Media Center will be packaged as an add-on for the folks who go Pro. For a full break down of what each version will hold hit the source link below and check out our hands-on impressions of the OS preview here.

Microsoft outs three flavors of Windows 8: Windows 8, Windows 8 Pro and Windows RT originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-onarmhdpostcrossmedia centermedia center editionMediaCenterMediaCenterEditionmicrosoftmsftoperating systemOperatingSystemosprortsteven sinokskywindowswindows 8windows 8 prowindows media centerwindows rtWindows8Windows8ProWindowsMediaCenterWindowsRtMon, 16 Apr 2012 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Ceton's Echo Extender for Media Center will be the first to support DTS surround sound]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/cetons-echo-extender-for-media-center-will-be-the-first-to-supp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/cetons-echo-extender-for-media-center-will-be-the-first-to-supp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/cetons-echo-extender-for-media-center-will-be-the-first-to-supp/#comments Ceton Echo Extender for Media Center

What's the Echo Extender for Media Center got that no other Extender for Media Center has? Support for DTS surround sound, that's what. The catch of course is that the Echo is still just on track for "later in 2012," but the press release after the break is a welcome reminder that the first new Extender for Media Center since 2008 is actually going to happen. Unfortunately, there's still no new updates on price, availability or really anything other than the fact that you'll be able to enjoy your favorite content in surround sound that is encoded with DTS -- hopefully that's enough for now.

Continue reading Ceton's Echo Extender for Media Center will be the first to support DTS surround sound

Ceton's Echo Extender for Media Center will be the first to support DTS surround sound originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CetonCeton CorpCeton EchoCetonCorpCetonEchoDTSEchoExtender for Media CenterExtenderForMediaCenterhdpostcrosshdpostminiMedia Centermedia center embeddedMediaCenterMediaCenterEmbeddednabnab 2012Nab2012windows media centerWindowsMediaCenterwmcMon, 16 Apr 2012 18:11:00 EST<![CDATA[MythTV 0.25 is finally available with a bundle of new features]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/new-myth-tv-0-25-features/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/new-myth-tv-0-25-features/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/12/new-myth-tv-0-25-features/#comments ImageOne year, four months and 30 days after its last major release, MythTV has -- after a short delay -- released v0.25 to the world. We've already discussed many of its new features including DirectX acceleration, out of the box support for CableCARD tuners, AirPlay and HTTP Live Streaming, but there are others, like HDMI-CEC control, 3D support, improved audio and more. Hit the source link to get your dose of open sourced media center action, we'll check in in another ten years for version 0.5.

MythTV 0.25 is finally available with a bundle of new features originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 04:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0.253dairplaycablecardhdmi-cechdpostminihtpcmedia centerMediaCentermyth tvMythTvopen sourceOpenSourcetvupdateThu, 12 Apr 2012 04:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Media Center to live in a separate version of Windows 8?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/media-center-to-live-in-a-separate-version-of-windows-8/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/media-center-to-live-in-a-separate-version-of-windows-8/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/media-center-to-live-in-a-separate-version-of-windows-8/#comments ImageTo the surprise of many, but not all, the same great Windows Media Center from Windows 7 was part of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview. What this means for the final version of Windows 8 is still far from known, however, Winunleaked offers up a new clue with the Pro Pack edition labeled as ProfessionalWMC. It's hard to know however, if this is just a different SKU for the Professional version of Windows 8 or a glimpse of something that will impact multiple version of the new operating system. Media Center started as a separate product from Windows proper and Microsoft has publicly left clues that it might return to its roots -- presumably to avoid making every Windows user pay licensing costs for codecs like Dolby Digital that are required for live TV. For the moment, it's really just more speculation while we wait for the fall to arrive with latest official offerings from Redmond.

Media Center to live in a separate version of Windows 8? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdpostcrosshdpostminimedia centerMediaCenterMicrosoftProfessionalWMCskuwindowsWindows 8Windows Media CenterWindows8WindowsMediaCenterWinunleakedThu, 29 Mar 2012 14:46:00 EST<![CDATA[XBMC Eden officially steps out of beta, available for download now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/xbmc-eden-officially-steps-out-of-beta-available-for-download-n/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/xbmc-eden-officially-steps-out-of-beta-available-for-download-n/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/24/xbmc-eden-officially-steps-out-of-beta-available-for-download-n/#comments Image
Been snacking on popcorn with the beta build of XBMC 11.0 Eden since it got released last December? If, you'll be pleased know that the full-on release version is now officially available for download. In case you don't recall, this latest build of the media center house many new features, not limited to Addon Rollbacks (in case you hate their new builds), a plethora of speed-improvements, official "in- sync support" for iOS devices, AirPlay functionality and UI tweaks. There's also good news for Ubuntu users, as XBMCbuntu Final has been officially announced as the successor to XBMC Live. Excuse the pun, but if you're ready to taste the fruit now that it's ripe, you'll find the full details for both and the download link for Eden at the source link below.

XBMC Eden officially steps out of beta, available for download now originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple tvAppleTvarmedenhdpostcrosshtpciosipadiphonemedia centermedia pcmedia playerMediaCenterMediaPcMediaPlayertouch screenTouchScreenXBMCxbmc 11xbmc edenXbmc11XbmcEdenXBMCUbuntuSat, 24 Mar 2012 20:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Plex Media Server upgraded, Google TV app gets a reboot]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/plex-media-server-upgraded-google-tv-app-gets-a-reboot/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/plex-media-server-upgraded-google-tv-app-gets-a-reboot/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/plex-media-server-upgraded-google-tv-app-gets-a-reboot/#comments Real-time media streamer Plex has been refreshed on Google TV, following the smart TV's own recent firmware upgrade. The UI now looks easier to navigate with quicker access to recently added content. When it comes to the streaming media itself, you'll still need to have a Plex server setup on a separate PC or Mac but the app still supports your dedicated myPlex content and your friends' shared files. Plex's latest Media Server update also solves some iOS app problems alongside a handful of other stability and compatibility issues. The new Google TV version of the catch-all media platform isn't live just yet, but you can grab last month's version at the source and gird yourself for the incoming update.

Plex Media Server upgraded, Google TV app gets a reboot originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 10:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappsGoogle TVGoogleTvhdpostcrosshdpostminilaikamedia centermedia playermedia serverMediaCenterMediaPlayerMediaServermyplexplexplex media centerPlexMediaCenterstreaming mediastreaming videoStreamingMediaStreamingVideoTVvideovideo streamingVideoStreamingFri, 09 Mar 2012 10:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect for Media Center released, why not wave and shout at your HTPC?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/kinect-for-media-center/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/kinect-for-media-center/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/15/kinect-for-media-center/#comments Kinect hacks previously brought gesture and voice control to Boxee and XBMC, and now that the Kinect for Windows hardware has been released we've got a solution for Windows Media Center. The aptly named Kinect for Media Center brings all the normal playback controls (for WMC and add-ins like Netflix) to your fingertips and lips, at the cost of $6.99. While its control scheme seems to be fully featured there are unfortunately some limitations -- it doesn't work with the Xbox 360 Kinect due to Microsoft's restrictions, and it also doesn't work with WMC extenders. What is included are filters to keep your content from accidentally triggering the voice controls (something some of us have had problems with on the Xbox 360), and configurable settings for right or left hand dominance or sensitivity. You can check out a video demo of the beta version (compare to a demo we saw last year from the makers of the Amulet voice control remotes) embedded after the break, or head directly to the site to try it out yourself if you're sure that finding the remote has simply become to much of a hassle.

Continue reading Kinect for Media Center released, why not wave and shout at your HTPC?

Kinect for Media Center released, why not wave and shout at your HTPC? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 01:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gesture controlGestureControlhdpostcrosshtpckinectkinect for windowsKinectForWindowsmc7media centermedia pcMediaCenterMediaPcmicrosoftsdkvideovoice controlVoiceControlwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterwmcWed, 15 Feb 2012 01:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Tranquil PC ships MMC-12: a 1.5-inch thick, fanless HTPC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/tranquil-pc-ships-mmc-12-a-1-5-inch-thick-fanless-htpc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/tranquil-pc-ships-mmc-12-a-1-5-inch-thick-fanless-htpc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/03/tranquil-pc-ships-mmc-12-a-1-5-inch-thick-fanless-htpc/#comments We haven't heard from Britain's own Tranquil PC in a hot minute, but the company's storming into the new year with a machine that's easy to overlook. In a good way. The MMC-12 Media Center measures just 1.5-inches thick, enabling it to be slid into (or under) just about any A/V rack. £649 (right around $1,000) nets you a Core i3 processor, 4GB of DDR3 memory (plus another open RAM slot), an admittedly paltry 80GB mSATA hard drive, CD / DVD burner, Windows 7 Home Premium and an HDMI port. You'll also get a pair of USB 3.0 ports, two underwhelming (and bound to be unloved) USB 2.0 sockets, a gigabit Ethernet jack, DVI socket and an aluminum enclosure. The company recommends that you connect a couple of your favorite USB TV tuners for maximum enjoyment, and in case you're wondering, Blu-ray drives and international shipping is available.

Tranquil PC ships MMC-12: a 1.5-inch thick, fanless HTPC originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 02:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DVB-T2europefreeviewhdpostcrosshtpcmedia centermedia center pcmedia serverMediaCenterMediaCenterPcMediaServermmc-12now shippingNowShippingon saleOnSaleshipshippingshipstranquiltranquil pcTranquilPcukTue, 03 Jan 2012 02:33:00 EST<![CDATA[XBMC Eden finally makes it to beta, promises HTPC superpowers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/28/xbmc-eden-finally-makes-it-to-beta-promises-htpc-superpowers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/28/xbmc-eden-finally-makes-it-to-beta-promises-htpc-superpowers/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/28/xbmc-eden-finally-makes-it-to-beta-promises-htpc-superpowers/#comments Remember that big XBMC update teased back in October? Well, v11.0's multifarious additions are finally ready for a spot of beta testing. These include all-round speed increases, a "vastly improved" default skin, the ability to rollback unpleasant add-on updates, and better hardware support for iOS devices, plus a host of other new features that can only be listed in full at the source link.

XBMC Eden finally makes it to beta, promises HTPC superpowers originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 03:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple tvAppleTvarmedenhdpostcrosshdpostminihtpciosipadiphonemedia centermedia hubmedia pcmedia playerMediaCenterMediaHubMediaPcMediaPlayerstreamingtouch screenTouchScreenxbmcxbmc 11Xbmc11Wed, 28 Dec 2011 03:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Plex app available on Kindle Fire, media servers and other clients get new updates too]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/plex-app-available-on-kindle-fire-updates-media-servers-and-oth/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/plex-app-available-on-kindle-fire-updates-media-servers-and-oth/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/plex-app-available-on-kindle-fire-updates-media-servers-and-oth/#comments For a media software package to survive these days, it has to be able to run pretty much anywhere and just recently Plex added the Kindle Fire to its list of supported platforms, uploading its Android client onto Amazon's Appstore. The team hasn't stopped there either, delivering updates across a slew of products starting with its Media Server v0.9.5.2 which added autoupdate and start on login features, while the Media Center package has reached 9.5.2, with support for refresh rate switching as well as a number of other tweaks and fixes. The various clients haven't been forgotten either, with a brand new alpha available for Linux users, individual apps for Android and Google TV, and a new v2.1 for iOS that supports myPlex cloud streaming without the need for users to run the Plex server software locally. Hit the source links for changelogs and more details or just check an app store near you where updated software is no doubt residing for your picture, music, and video streaming pleasure.

Plex app available on Kindle Fire, media servers and other clients get new updates too originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappsclientcloudhdpostminiioskindle fireKindleFirelinuxmacmedia centermedia clientmedia serverMediaCenterMediaClientMediaServermyplexos xOsXplexserverMon, 05 Dec 2011 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Plex releases new mobile and desktop clients, gets Flash and Silverlight support to go with a fancy new UI]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/plex-turns-2-0-gets-flash-and-silverlight-support-to-go-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/plex-turns-2-0-gets-flash-and-silverlight-support-to-go-with-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/01/plex-turns-2-0-gets-flash-and-silverlight-support-to-go-with-a/#comments You have many choices for your media streaming needs, and Plex is doing its damnedest to get you onboard its bandwagon. Plex is well known for its multi-platform flexibility, and the arrival of the myPlex media server platform makes sharing your content across devices easier than ever. To go with that cloud capability, Plex has released a new version of its desktop and mobile clients as well. The updated code brings a slick new UI and myPlex support, plus Flash and Silverlight video capability to Plex Media Server along with official Windows support -- including integration with Windows Media Center -- and a laundry list of bug fixes and stability tweaks. A full rundown of all the new goodies plus plenty of screenshots of that revamped UI can be found at the source below.

Plex releases new mobile and desktop clients, gets Flash and Silverlight support to go with a fancy new UI originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappshdpostcrosslaikamedia centermedia playermedia serverMediaCenterMediaPlayerMediaServermyplexplexplex media centerPlexMediaCenterstreaming mediastreaming videoStreamingMediaStreamingVideovideovideo streamingVideoStreamingxmbcTue, 01 Nov 2011 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[XBMC teases new features coming in 11.0 'Eden' release]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/xbmc-teases-new-features-coming-in-11-0-eden-release/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/xbmc-teases-new-features-coming-in-11-0-eden-release/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/04/xbmc-teases-new-features-coming-in-11-0-eden-release/#comments The next version of XBMC isn't ready for prime time yet, but the team behind it is already talking about what's being added and tweaked in v11.0, a.k.a Eden. This is the first major release since the media player app added iPad, iPhone and Apple TV support and as such improved touchscreen support is high on the list. We can also expect a new "Files" view in the video library, a different default skin, improved CPU / GPU efficiency, customizable home screens and other UI tweaks as seen above. Now that the list of features is pretty much locked down we'll be expecting a beta, and eventually final release, but you can hit the source link to dive in early and help test everything out.

XBMC teases new features coming in 11.0 'Eden' release originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 20:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple tvAppleTvarmedenhdpostcrosshdpostminihtpciosipadiphonemedia centermedia pcmedia playerMediaCenterMediaPcMediaPlayertouch screenTouchScreenxbmcxbmc 11Xbmc11Tue, 04 Oct 2011 20:11:00 EST<![CDATA[New Mediaroom clients to bring Microsoft's TV platform everywhere this year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/new-mediaroom-clients-to-bring-microsofts-tv-platform-everywher/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/new-mediaroom-clients-to-bring-microsofts-tv-platform-everywher/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/new-mediaroom-clients-to-bring-microsofts-tv-platform-everywher/#comments Windows Media Center using Mediaroom 2.0 The days of being tied to a traditional TV to watch your favorite shows is becoming less and less of a dream -- at least for Mediaroom 2.0 users, like those who subscribe to AT&T U-Verse. It hasn't even been a full year since Xbox 360 owners were first able to launch a U-Verse blade to watch TV, but it has been about nine months when we first heard rumors of Mediaroom clients for Windows Media Center (aka Monaco), Silverlight (aka Taos) and Windows Phone (aka Rome) would see the light of day. A recent post on William Zhang's blog, a Microsoft employee, confirms the rumored code names in addition to giving us reason to believe those using Mediaroom 2.0 software might still realize the three screen dream by the end of 2011 after all.

New Mediaroom clients to bring Microsoft's TV platform everywhere this year originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 23:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ATT U-VerseAttU-versehdpostcrosshdpostminiIPTVMedia CenterMediaCenterMediaroommediaroom 2.0Mediaroom2.0Microsoftset top boxSetTopBoxSilverlighttvU-VerseWindowsWindows Media CenterWindows PhoneWindows Phone 7WindowsMediaCenterWindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7Xbox-360Fri, 09 Sep 2011 23:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft confirms Media Center will be in Windows 8]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/microsoft-confirms-media-center-will-be-in-windows-8/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/microsoft-confirms-media-center-will-be-in-windows-8/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/02/microsoft-confirms-media-center-will-be-in-windows-8/#comments Windows Media Center fans can finally breathe again. After seemingly endless will they / won't they speculation Steven Sinofsky, the President of the Windows Division has confirmed in a blog post that Media Center will return for yet another go 'round in Windows 8. There's no word on any possible changes, only that the company has "work to do" concerning the quality and compatibility of add-ins. Wondering why it hasn't been in some pre-release builds? Between the potential for multiple SKUs (no details until closer to release, but it seems like you'll be looking for an Ultimate pack or something similar again to get everything) and simple engineering decisions as features are added and removed that's just the way it is. Another factor is that WMC isn't exactly mass market, as he cites stats indicating only 6 percent of Windows 7 users launched the app in July, with over half of those sessions lasting less than a couple of minutes. Meanwhile, IE apparently pops up on 88 percent of Windows 7 desktops. Check the blog post for his full statement, plus a bit of discussion about the new Metro style and ribbon mechanism.

[Thanks, Joe]

Microsoft confirms Media Center will be in Windows 8 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Sep 2011 19:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betahdpostminimedia centerMediaCentermetromicrosoftribbonwindowswindows 8windows media centerWindows8WindowsMediaCenterFri, 02 Sep 2011 19:19:00 EST<![CDATA[HDHomerun Prime CableCARD tuner hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/hdhomerun-prime-cablecard-tuner-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/hdhomerun-prime-cablecard-tuner-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/18/hdhomerun-prime-cablecard-tuner-hands-on/#comments
Looking a little different than the prototype we got our hands-on at CES, the retail version of the CableCARD tuner from SiliconDust found its way in front of our camera today. Those who preordered this little guy for $249 should start receiving it shortly, as a series of frustrating delays finally come to an end. We can't wait to plug this network tuner in and toss up to three HD feeds at a time through our Ethernet cabling and expect most others feel the same way. Check out out our pics in the gallery below, we'll let you know if the InfiniTV 4 has competition worth worrying about -- seems like it, given the price drop -- shortly.

Gallery: Hands-on with the HDHomerun Prime CableCARD tuner

HDHomerun Prime CableCARD tuner hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CableCARDhands-onHDHomeRun PrimeHdhomerunPrimehdhr3-cchdpostminiHTPCMedia CenterMediaCenterSiliconDusttunerWindows 7 Media CenterWindows7MediaCenterThu, 18 Aug 2011 20:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Amulet shows off Kinect voice control for Windows Media Center (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/06/amulet-shows-off-kinect-voice-control-for-windows-media-center/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/06/amulet-shows-off-kinect-voice-control-for-windows-media-center/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/06/amulet-shows-off-kinect-voice-control-for-windows-media-center/#comments The Amulet Devices team has been pushing voice control for Windows Media Center through its remote accessory, but now it's dived into the pool of Kinect hacks with a demo (video embedded after the break) using the Xbox 360 add-on instead. The company blog breaks down some of the hardware capabilities of the device that make it ideal for voice control (as previously seen in the Xbox apps for ESPN3, Hulu Plus and Netflix) and also details some of the efforts used to make it work here. If there's enough interest it may release the demo software for free, and already plans to bring out a full version when Microsoft unleashes a commercial version of the Kinect SDK. We're still not sure if voice control is ready to take over for standard remotes but at least talking to the TV is less of a strain than gesture control on our weak made-for-blogging arms.

Amulet shows off Kinect voice control for Windows Media Center (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 06 Aug 2011 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mcamuletamulet devicesAmuletDeviceshdkineckmedia centerMediaCenterMicrosoftremotesdkvoicevoice controlVoiceControlwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterwmcxboxxbox 360Xbox360Sat, 06 Aug 2011 11:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Ceton InfiniTV 4 USB is CableLabs certified, almost ready to go]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/ceton-infinitv-4-usb-is-cablelabs-certified-almost-ready-to-go/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/ceton-infinitv-4-usb-is-cablelabs-certified-almost-ready-to-go/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/ceton-infinitv-4-usb-is-cablelabs-certified-almost-ready-to-go/#comments Not finding the current CableCARD tuner options satisfactory? Perhaps the Ceton InfiniTV 4 USB will fit the bill. We first got our hands on it at CES (along with the InfiniTV 6) in January and the company tweeted tonight that it is now CableLabs certified. There's still no word on details like ship date and pricing, but with regulatory hurdles cleared it should be shipping very soon. Check a few more hands-on shots in our gallery.

Ceton InfiniTV 4 USB is CableLabs certified, almost ready to go originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 23:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cable cardCableCardcetonexternalhdinfinitvinfinitv 4 usbInfinitv4Usbmedia centerMediaCentertunerusbThu, 04 Aug 2011 23:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Recorded TV HD plugin for Media Center adds commercial break indicator]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/recorded-tv-hd-plugin-for-media-center-adds-commercial-break-ind/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/recorded-tv-hd-plugin-for-media-center-adds-commercial-break-ind/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/recorded-tv-hd-plugin-for-media-center-adds-commercial-break-ind/#comments The Recorded TV HD app for Media Center users debuted earlier this year, bringing the ability to sort saved TV shows by genre or personalized favorites list with additional metadata pulled in automatically. Today, developer Mark Terborg released v1.4.18, which adds a Sage TV-style commercial break indicator to the scrub bar, provided users are running properly configured commercial scanning software as well. The familiar look may ease the nerves of switchers jumping from the Sage ship, who can get a taste of the add-in during its 30-day free trial but will have to pay $19.95 for a license covering one PC plus extenders, or $39.95 for a whole household. Check after the break for a shot of the plugin's UI, or hit the source link for the full changelog.

Continue reading Recorded TV HD plugin for Media Center adds commercial break indicator

Recorded TV HD plugin for Media Center adds commercial break indicator originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mccommercial break viewerCommercialBreakViewercommercialsCommercialSkippingdvrmstoolboxhdmedia centerMediaCenterpluginrecorded tv hdRecordedTvHdsage tvSageTvShow AnalyzerShowAnalyzerwindows mediaWindowsMediaTue, 02 Aug 2011 13:11:00 EST<![CDATA[AllVid still seems like a dream, but new CableCARD rules go into effect soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/allvid-still-seems-like-a-dream-but-new-cablecard-rules-go-into/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/allvid-still-seems-like-a-dream-but-new-cablecard-rules-go-into/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/30/allvid-still-seems-like-a-dream-but-new-cablecard-rules-go-into/#comments CableCARD It's no surprise that a government entities' own deadlines are never met, but while the FCC's Broadband Plan originally expressed its intent to apply bandaids to CableCARD in the Fall of 2010, November 1st 2011 is the date most feeling the pain can circle on their calendar. That is the day all cable providers will be required to allow self installs, while December 1st is the day that the new useless IP interface must start working -- certainly to be made useless by unlicensable DRM, like 5C did to 1394. These new CableCARD rules are still great for TiVo, Moxi and InfiniTV customers, but the dream of AllVid seems destined to follow a similar fate with 2011 half way over and almost no progress towards the promise of a 2012 deployment made.

AllVid still seems like a dream, but new CableCARD rules go into effect soon originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5CAllVidCableCARDFCChdInfiniTVMedia CenterMediaCenterMoxiTiVoWindows Media CenterWindowsMediaCenterSat, 30 Jul 2011 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Six tuner HDHomeRun Prime CableCARD tuner ships tomorrow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/six-tuner-hdhomerun-prime-cablecard-tuner-ships-tomorrow/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/six-tuner-hdhomerun-prime-cablecard-tuner-ships-tomorrow/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/six-tuner-hdhomerun-prime-cablecard-tuner-ships-tomorrow/#comments We're not exactly sure what is so complicated about building CableCARD tuners, but after being bitten by the inevitable delay bug Silicondust says it is ready to ship the six tuner version of its HDHomeRun Prime. A tweet went out earlier stating Newegg would be forwarding the units to customers beginning tomorrow, while a post on the company forums confirms the first shipment leaving their location just a short while ago. Unfortunately that still leave the $249 three tuner version twisting in the wind, but if you preordered just hang in there, more word is promised "later this week."

Six tuner HDHomeRun Prime CableCARD tuner ships tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6cccablecardcablecard tunerCablecardTunerhdhd homerunHdHomerunHDHomeRun PrimeHdhomerunPrimehdhr3-6cc-3x2htpcmedia centermedia pcMediaCenterMediaPcsilicon dustSiliconDustTue, 26 Jul 2011 23:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's new Xbox 360 Media Remote is missing the Media Center buttons]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/microsofts-new-xbox-360-media-remote-is-missing-the-media-cente/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/microsofts-new-xbox-360-media-remote-is-missing-the-media-cente/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/microsofts-new-xbox-360-media-remote-is-missing-the-media-cente/#comments It was a bit of an afterthought in today's announcement from the Xbox team, but we thought you might like a closer look at the new Xbox 360 Media Remote. While it has a decent layout of controls, including your usual Xbox A, B, X, Y, and guide buttons, but the most notable buttons for us are the ones that are missing. As The Digital Lifestyle points out, it has no Windows Media Center buttons, unlike the previous Xbox 360 remotes. Does this mean its place as a Media Center Extender is suddenly unnecessary? We're not sure of that yet, it could just be a value choice made for the $20 remote that's due to ship in November, but with a press release playing up its ability to control Live TV it's certainly worth wondering what Microsoft is planning for the future.

Continue reading Microsoft's new Xbox 360 Media Remote is missing the Media Center buttons

Microsoft's new Xbox 360 Media Remote is missing the Media Center buttons originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>green buttonGreenButtonhdirmedia centerMediaCentermicrosoftremote controlRemoteControlxboxxbox 360xbox 360 media remoteXbox360Xbox360MediaRemoteTue, 26 Jul 2011 18:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Four tuner firmware update for Cisco Tuning Adapters rolling out]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/12/four-tuner-firmware-update-for-cisco-tuning-adapters-rolling-out/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/12/four-tuner-firmware-update-for-cisco-tuning-adapters-rolling-out/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/12/four-tuner-firmware-update-for-cisco-tuning-adapters-rolling-out/#comments Cisco Tuning Adapter With less than two weeks to go until the very same FCC requirement (FCC-10-81) goes into effect, a Cisco Tuning Adapter in the wild received the F.1402 firmware update that upgrades it from double to quadruple duty. This is fantastic news for those who already have a Ceton InfiniTV 4 on a system that uses Switched Digital Video, as it will eliminate the need for one more set-top box, but should also be good news to the company who formally requested CableLabs change the spec to require four tuners in the first place; TiVo. No way to know exactly when this firmware update will roll out, but we're sure we're not alone when we say we hope it brings some much needed stability along with it.

Four tuner firmware update for Cisco Tuning Adapters rolling out originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CableCARDCableLabsCiscohdMedia CenterMediaCenterSDVSwitched Digital VideoSwitchedDigitalVideoTATiVoTuning AdapterTuningAdapterTue, 12 Jul 2011 23:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Acer ships AMD-powered Revo RL100 HTPC to Americans: $499 and up]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/acer-ships-amd-powered-revo-rl100-htpc-to-americans-499-and-up/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/acer-ships-amd-powered-revo-rl100-htpc-to-americans-499-and-up/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/acer-ships-amd-powered-revo-rl100-htpc-to-americans-499-and-up/#comments Acer actually popped out its Revo RL100 media center right around six months ago, but for those unable to make the trip to Asia, today's the day for getting jovial. Said player is now shipping to the US of A, hailed as a "digital hub" and outfitted with a dual-mode wireless touchpad / keyboard as well as the company's own clear.fi streaming solution. A pair of models will be available -- one with Blu-ray and one without -- with the entire box measuring just 1- x 11.81- x 7.09-inches. As expected, an HDMI port 'round back will handle the bulk of the data transmissions, and an internal NVIDIA Ion graphics chip will be responsible for 1080p video playback. Within, you'll get a 1.3GHz AMD Athlon II K325 CPU, 750GB SATA hard drive, 4GB of DDR3 RAM, three USB 2.0 ports, a multi-card reader, 802.11b/g/n WiFi and an Ethernet socket. Windows 7 Home Premium will be the OS of choice, and it can be yours for the tidy sum of $499.99 (or $569.99 if you're looking to add BD capabilities).

Gallery: Acer Revo RL100 HTPC press gallery

Continue reading Acer ships AMD-powered Revo RL100 HTPC to Americans: $499 and up

Acer ships AMD-powered Revo RL100 HTPC to Americans: $499 and up originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acerclear.fihd media streamerHdMediaStreamerhtpcMEDIA CENTERmedia pcmedia streamerMediaCenterMediaPcMediaStreamerrevorevo rl100RevoRl100RL100streamstreamerstreamingwindows 7Windows7Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuner adds $100 instant rebate, new retailers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/infinitv-4-cablecard-tuner-adds-100-instant-rebate-new-retaile/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/infinitv-4-cablecard-tuner-adds-100-instant-rebate-new-retaile/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/infinitv-4-cablecard-tuner-adds-100-instant-rebate-new-retaile/#comments While there's no official price drop yet, Ceton has officially authorized several new retailers for the InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuner, and announced partnerships with several new retailers. The shocking price drops spotted over the weekend seem to have mostly dried up -- the $282 eBay auction shows 3 left, Amazon's super low offer has disappeared, Buy.com is sold out and Erwin Computer's price is up to $278. However, the addition of new retail partners means snagging a card for $299 is easier than ever, and while that may not put some Hamiltons back in your pocket it should at least provide some peace of mind.

Continue reading InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuner adds $100 instant rebate, new retailers

InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuner adds $100 instant rebate, new retailers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablecardcablecard tunerCablecardTunercetonhdhtpcinfinitv 4Infinitv4media centerMediaCenterpciewindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterTue, 07 Jun 2011 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Remote Potato for Media Center hits v1.0, serves up recorded TV, videos, and music to wherever you are]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/remote-potato-for-media-center-hits-v1-0-serves-up-recorded-tv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/remote-potato-for-media-center-hits-v1-0-serves-up-recorded-tv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/remote-potato-for-media-center-hits-v1-0-serves-up-recorded-tv/#comments If you want control of your Windows PC and access to the media stored on it -- including Media Center recordings -- while you're actually somewhere else, the free Remote Potato server powers many solutions to enable that and recently hit version 1.0. Some of the new features include fully seekable video streaming in a web browser, on iPhone or iPad, and streaming of videos in "most major formats." Check the video demo above for an example of just what this software can do or hit the source link for the full changelog.

Remote Potato for Media Center hits v1.0, serves up recorded TV, videos, and music to wherever you are originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 May 2011 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mvhdmedia centerMediaCenterremote controlremote potatoRemoteControlRemotePotatostreamingwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterFri, 27 May 2011 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[AirPlay for Windows Media Center does exactly what you're thinking it does]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/airplay-for-windows-media-center-does-exactly-what-youre-thinki/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/airplay-for-windows-media-center-does-exactly-what-youre-thinki/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/24/airplay-for-windows-media-center-does-exactly-what-youre-thinki/#comments This isn't the first time Windows has been invited to the AirPlay party, but Thomas Pleasance's AirPlay for Windows Media Center addin seems to already be one of the smoother combinations we've seen and it's still in beta. Unsurprisingly, it does what the name says, so after installing Apple's Bonjour service and the free client on your Media Center PC you should be able to stream video or pictures to it (there's no support for music yet) from an iPad or iPhone with a simple click. The Digital Lifestyle has already gotten a quick hands-on with the app and got it working seamlessly as seen above, check that out for more details or hit the source link to download the necessary software to make it all work.

AirPlay for Windows Media Center does exactly what you're thinking it does originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 May 2011 03:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-inairplayappleiosipadiphonemedia centermedia center add-inMediaCenterMediaCenterAdd-instreamingwindowswindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterTue, 24 May 2011 03:58:00 EST<![CDATA[HDHomeRun Prime TV tuner officially available for preorders for $249, six tuner version next week]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/hdhomerun-prime-tv-tuner-is-officially-available-for-preorders-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/hdhomerun-prime-tv-tuner-is-officially-available-for-preorders-f/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/14/hdhomerun-prime-tv-tuner-is-officially-available-for-preorders-f/#comments After a false start when it passed certification earlier this month, SiliconDust's three CableCARD tuner HDHomeRun Prime is finally available for preorder from Newegg for $249. The release date is scheduled for June 29th but those interested in getting it hooked up to their HTPC as quickly as possible may want to wait until next week when the six-tuner 6CC version goes up for preorder, as those are expected to begin shipping first. There's no volume discount on the tuners at $499, but at $83 per tuner you might be able to justify it as a better value than the four-tuner and also network-sharable InfiniTV 4. Either way, if you just need a bit more information before purchasing, you'll find it on the sales page, on the linked PDF below or in the video trailer embedded after the break.

[Thanks Justin & @TheReal_PeterF]

Continue reading HDHomeRun Prime TV tuner officially available for preorders for $249, six tuner version next week

HDHomeRun Prime TV tuner officially available for preorders for $249, six tuner version next week originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 May 2011 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mcbreaking newscablecardexternalhd homerunHdHomerunHDHomeRun PrimeHdhomerunPrimehdhr3-6cc-3x2hdhr3-cchtpcmedia centerMediaCentersiliocondusttunerusbvideowindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterSat, 14 May 2011 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Plex Media Server launches client for Roku]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/plex-media-server-launches-client-for-roku/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/plex-media-server-launches-client-for-roku/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/plex-media-server-launches-client-for-roku/#commentsPlex has been serving up streaming video for more than a minute, bringing content to Macs, iDevices, and even jailbroken Apple TVs (not to mention apps for all sizes of Android). For those who are neither Apple aficionados nor dedicated 'droid users, the company has rolled out a client that runs on Rokus. It's currently in beta and only supports video, but Plex plans to provide picture and music management in the future. Plex's XBMC secret sauce paired with Roku's ample streaming content buffet? Sounds delicious.

[Thanks, James]

Plex Media Server launches client for Roku originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 May 2011 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appmedia centermedia servermedia streamermedia streamingMediaCenterMediaServerMediaStreamerMediaStreamingplexrokuroku hdroku xdroku xdsRokuHdRokuXdRokuXdsvideovideo streamingVideoStreamingxbmcxdxdsTue, 03 May 2011 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[HDHomeRun Prime TV tuner passes CableLabs tests - Update: Preorder pulled, 6-tuner ships first]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/hdhomerun-prime-tv-tuner-passes-cablelabs-tests-available-for-p/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/hdhomerun-prime-tv-tuner-passes-cablelabs-tests-available-for-p/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/hdhomerun-prime-tv-tuner-passes-cablelabs-tests-available-for-p/#comments We've been waiting for SiliconDust's CableCARD-compatible HDHomeRun Prime for a little over a year and it seems finally ready to bring its triple tuner TV magic home, having gained CableLabs certification as of April 28th and subsequently showing up for preorder on Amazon. While this is mostly big news for Windows Media Center fans who need a new way to get premium channels on their box it also supports other DVR software like MythTV on Copy Freely-marked content. HTPC builders don't have to choose between this HDHR3-CC and the (suddenly in abundant supply and still $399) Ceton InfiniTV 4 just yet, since the listing has no shipping date and the last we'd heard from SiliconDust was that preorders would ship around 30 days after it completed certification. Check out our hands-on impressions from CES a few months ago if you're on the fence, but right now all that's standing between you and that grey box is a little bit of time... and $207.

Update: According to a post on its forum, SiliconDust confirmed the HDHomeRun Prime has been certified and an email announcement will follow shortly, however it expects to deliver a 6-tuner Theater version first with the three tuner box appearing afterwards. The post also notes sites are "incorrectly listing" the HDHomeRun Prime for preorder and "will not be first in line for delivering product" so you may want to wait for the official word on which "major retailer" has the go-ahead to make sure you're first in line. The option to preorder disappeared from Amazon this morning, we'll let you know when and where the option to purchase pops up next. [Thanks, robniep]

Gallery: Hands-on with the HDHomeRun Prime


[Thanks, Neil]

HDHomeRun Prime TV tuner passes CableLabs tests - Update: Preorder pulled, 6-tuner ships first originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 May 2011 01:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mccable cardcable labsCableCardCableLabshd homerunHdHomerunHDHomeRun CableCARDHDHomeRun PrimeHdhomerunCablecardHdhomerunPrimehdhr3-cchtpcmedia centerMediaCentermyth tvMythTvpreordersilicon dustSiliconDustthree tunerThreeTunerwindows 7 media centerWindows7MediaCenterMon, 02 May 2011 01:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Plex plays nice with your Honeycomb slate after app update]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/30/plex-plays-nice-with-your-honeycomb-slate-after-app-update/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/30/plex-plays-nice-with-your-honeycomb-slate-after-app-update/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/30/plex-plays-nice-with-your-honeycomb-slate-after-app-update/#comments We've praised Plex in the past for delivering us box-free XBMC and for it's prodigious media streaming proficiency. Problem is, its app wasn't optimized for the Honeycomb OS and the upsized screen real estate of Android slates -- until now. With the updated code comes tablet-friendly layouts and fast-scrolling in all grid and list views so you can zip through your large local media library. It also includes direct play and internet streaming sans-transcoding (just like the recently revised iOS app) for sating those right now vid cravings. The improvements serve smaller Android devices as well, which makes the newly egalitarian app more enticing than ever before. Best of all, it's still only five bucks.

[Thanks, Andrew]

Plex plays nice with your Honeycomb slate after app update originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 30 Apr 2011 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 3.0android marketAndroid3.0AndroidMarketapphoneycombmedia centermedia playermedia serverMediaCenterMediaPlayerMediaServerplexplex media centerPlexMediaCentervideovideo streamingVideoStreamingxbmcSat, 30 Apr 2011 11:04:00 EST<![CDATA[SecondRun.tv v2.5 Media Center plugin arrives with upgraded integration of locally stored files, Netflix, Crackle]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/secondrun-tv-v2-5-media-center-plugin-arrives-with-upgraded-inte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/secondrun-tv-v2-5-media-center-plugin-arrives-with-upgraded-inte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/27/secondrun-tv-v2-5-media-center-plugin-arrives-with-upgraded-inte/#comments While most of our focus on Windows Media Center is working with cable or OTA sources, the SecondRun.tv plugin is all about tying in strictly internet distributed video by building a TV guide full of streams from Hulu, the websites of the major networks and more. It's upgraded to version 2.5 recently and according to the changelog will let users bring in movies from their local folders (with automatic meta data lookup), Netflix and web based RSS feeds like Crackle.com. There's also a new extender optomized UI for viewing your local files and more. It will set you back an entire $3.99 for the pleasure, check out the website for more info on the features and a link to purchase.

SecondRun.tv v2.5 Media Center plugin arrives with upgraded integration of locally stored files, Netflix, Crackle originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mchdhtpchulumedia centermedia pcMediaCenterMediaPcnetflixpluginsecondrun.tvstreamingwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterWed, 27 Apr 2011 16:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Ceton InfiniTV 4 tuners now available on Amazon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/ceton-infinitv-4-tuners-now-available-on-amazon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/ceton-infinitv-4-tuners-now-available-on-amazon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/ceton-infinitv-4-tuners-now-available-on-amazon/#comments Ceton's supply of InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuners must be running strong now, as it's finally available through another retailer -- some tiny outfit called Amazon. The MSRP is still $399 just like everywhere else but as usual Prime customers can score cheap/free shipping. Let's see how waiting on that HDHomeRun Prime feels now that the buy button is this close.

Ceton InfiniTV 4 tuners now available on Amazon originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mcamazoncablecardcablecard tunerCablecardTunercetonhdinfinitv 4Infinitv4media centerMediaCenterwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterFri, 15 Apr 2011 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[ShowAnalyzer developer is hard at work on v2.0]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/show-analyzer-developer-is-hard-at-work-on-v2-0/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/show-analyzer-developer-is-hard-at-work-on-v2-0/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/11/show-analyzer-developer-is-hard-at-work-on-v2-0/#comments One of the most important pieces of our official Ben-o-vision toolkit should be getting an update soon, as ShowAnalyzer developer Jere Jones mentioned on his Android Buffet podcast that he's been busy for the last few months on v2.0. For those not already in the know, the software automatically detects commercials in your Windows Media Center recordings so they can be removed providing you with uninterrupted viewing pleasure -- we break down how to make it all work here. The Digital Media Zone speculates based on forum postings that there won't be a cross-platform version for OSX or Linux, but notes some are hoping to see the Schoolhouse app (or something similar) for adjusting commercial detection return in this version.

ShowAnalyzer developer is hard at work on v2.0 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7mccommercial skipcommercial skippingCommercialSkipCommercialSkippinghdhtpcjere jonesJereJonesmedia centerMediaCentershow analyzerShowAnalyzerwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterwtvMon, 11 Apr 2011 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Plex 1.1 for iOS improves streaming over 3G, pipes video to your TV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/10/plex-1-1-for-ios-improves-streaming-over-3g-pipes-video-to-your/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/10/plex-1-1-for-ios-improves-streaming-over-3g-pipes-video-to-your/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/10/plex-1-1-for-ios-improves-streaming-over-3g-pipes-video-to-your/#comments If you're not already running the Plex Media Server on one of the twenty-three beige boxes networked across your tiny domicile, you may be sorely tempted to install a copy this week, because the iOS app has just received a truly massive update. Where once the XBMC spinoff would have to transcode every video it delivered to your device across the ether, Plex claims it can now either bypass that CPU-intensive process or use an iOS-optimized technique, pumping H.264 video over the air far more efficiently. Second, it can deliver that content from iOS direct to your TV, via either a video-out cable or experimental support for AirPlay. Not bad, right? How's universal search sound -- the ability to type in a word and have the app reach out to local servers, remote servers, and online video services like YouTube and Vimeo too? Yeah, that $4.99 price tag is looking mighty affordable right about now, and there are plenty more improvements to peruse at the links below.

Plex 1.1 for iOS improves streaming over 3G, pipes video to your TV originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 10 Apr 2011 06:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airplayappAppleappsh.264iOSiPadiPhoneiPod touchIpodTouchmedia centerMediaCenterPlexPlex Media CenterPlexMediaCenterstreamingstreaming videoStreamingVideovideovideo outvideo streamingvideo-outVideoOutVideoStreamingSun, 10 Apr 2011 06:03:00 EST<![CDATA[New InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuners feature a simpler (to make) design]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/08/new-infinitv-4-cablecard-tuners-feature-a-simpler-to-make-desi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/08/new-infinitv-4-cablecard-tuners-feature-a-simpler-to-make-desi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/08/new-infinitv-4-cablecard-tuners-feature-a-simpler-to-make-desi/#comments It appears we have a new design to thank for solving the long wait times for InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuners. Keen eyes will note in these pictures from Missing Remote that the newer cards have a much simpler layout (compare to our original hands on) that VP Jeremy Hammer says is easier for the company to manufacture. Most electronics products go through production revisions that make them simpler and cheaper as time goes on and these cards are no different. The new cards have actually been shipping for some time, while we haven't heard anything about a change in MSRP it's good to know we can expect the supply to keep flowing steadily in the future.

New InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuners feature a simpler (to make) design originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablecardcablecard tunerCablecardTunercetondesignhdhtpcinfinitvinfinitv 4Infinitv4media centerMediaCenterredesignrevisionslimFri, 08 Apr 2011 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[REETI: the media center PC that's also a robot]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/reeti-the-media-center-pc-thats-also-a-robot/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/reeti-the-media-center-pc-thats-also-a-robot/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/reeti-the-media-center-pc-thats-also-a-robot/#comments Disappointed by the lack of companionship offered by your current media center PC? Then you might be interested in this so-called REETI unit developed by France's Robopec. You see, not only is it a full-fledged media PC, it's also a robot -- one capable of displaying a range of emotions, no less. The company's actually been working on this one for a little while now, but it just recently made its public debut at the Innorobo trade show, where it showed off its ability to track people with its eyes and respond to both speech and touch. Still no word on availability, but it seems like the company is, in fact, planning to sell them at some point. Until then, you can check out a pair of videos after the break, including some shocking evidence of where REETI really came from.

Continue reading REETI: the media center PC that's also a robot

REETI: the media center PC that's also a robot originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>innorobomedia centermedia center pcmedia pcMediaCenterMediaCenterPcMediaPcreetirobopecrobotvideoTue, 05 Apr 2011 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Ceton InfiniTV 4 CableCARD backorders are finally cleared, order away]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/ceton-infinitv-4-cablecard-backorders-are-finally-cleared-order/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/ceton-infinitv-4-cablecard-backorders-are-finally-cleared-order/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/30/ceton-infinitv-4-cablecard-backorders-are-finally-cleared-order/#comments It's hard to believe it's been a year since we published our review of the InfiniTV 4 CableCARD tuner from Ceton, although it's probably easier if you've been waiting all that time to get one in your HTPC. Those days should be long gone now however, as Missing Remote points out the order fulfillment thread on The Green Button indicates a slew of satisfied customers have been getting their packages recently. Retailers CannonPC and Fluid Digital are both indicating they're caught up with back orders and have the cards in stock, so if only the prospect of a long delivery wait has been stopping you from purchasing, it's time to buy. Of course, as is the way of things, by now you're probably waiting around for the HDHomeRun Prime -- good luck.

Ceton InfiniTV 4 CableCARD backorders are finally cleared, order away originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cablecablecardcablecard tunerCablecardTunercetonceton corpCetonCorphdhtpcinfinitvinfinitv 4Infinitv4media centerMediaCenterocurwindows media centerWindowsMediaCenterWed, 30 Mar 2011 20:57:00 EST