netcast
Latest
LG's smart TVs will stream Google Play movies this month
Who said that TVs with Google Play Movies & TV had to be running Android? Certainly not LG. It just announced that many of its recent smart TVs (including both webOS- and NetCast-based models) will offer Google Play streaming this month. While it's not as if you've been hurting for viewing options on any of these sets, this could be extremely useful if you prefer to buy or rent movies and want to sync your viewing between your smartphone and a big screen. TV shows will only be available on launch in Australia, Canada, the UK and the US, but you'll find movies in a whopping 104 countries.
This Firefox OS media stick sends video to your TV, much like Chromecast
If you like the idea of streaming media to your TV with a Chromecast but aren't terribly fond of Google's content or platform restrictions, you'll soon have an open alternative. GigaOM has managed to get hands-on time with an unannounced Firefox OS-based media stick that lets you "fling" any content to your TV using any software. It has a hack-friendly open bootloader, and it'll even mimic a Chromecast in a pinch; while support is inconsistent right now, the adapter can already handle video requests from the YouTube app. Mozilla isn't naming the manufacturer or commenting on its involvement in the project, but hopefully the gadget ships sooner than later. It may be the key to simple casting from Firefox OS, Windows Phone and other platforms that don't have many (if any) TV sharing options.
LG 72LEX9: the **largest 3D television you can purchase next year (updated)
If you're going to make the jump to 3D then don't pussyfoot around. Not when you can go all in with the world's largest commercial 3D LED backlit television from LG. The 72LEX9 stretches that 400Hz TruMotion panel to a full 72 inches while bunging NetCast online media streaming, Spot Control pixel dimming, DLNA, and Wireless AV Link into the mix. Look for it to be released in Q2 of 2011... at which time LG will probably release its 84-incher just to spite you. TV sans human after the break. ** Mitsubishi makes a 75-inch 3D-ready LaserVue TV. Talk about splitting hairs.
Plex announces partnership with LG, pledges to beat Boxee Box and Apple TV for free
We're excited about the Boxee Box, and the new-look Apple TV is intriguing, but no single box is as good as a box that doesn't exist yet does the same stuff. Confused? Sit down, let us explain. That's the point Plex is making in announcing its new partnership with LG, which will integrate Plex software into its 2011 Netcast HDTVs and Blu-ray players. Plex enables the same sort of functionality as those smart little boxes mentioned above, letting you serve content from a machine running OS X and push it to your TV or to a mobile device (iPhone and iPad right now, Android coming). Plex also supports all the major online streamers, like Netflix, Hulu, and even the BBC iPlayer. Lack of PC support is something of a bummer, but a Windows version is said to be coming, so even your beige box can soon get in on the box-free fun.
LG's $400 BX580 network 3D Blu-ray player ships in a month or two
Staying on that cutting edge, are we LG? In a world starstruck by HDMI 1.4, internet connectivity, DLNA, 3D and 1080p, LG's latest deck has it all, and now we know precisely -- er, almost precisely -- when she'll ship. The BX580 has just found itself a slot on Amazon's website, priced at $399.99 and proudly listed as the company's first network 3D Blu-ray player. Aside from having the ability to handle forthcoming 3D Blu-ray titles, it also ships with NetCast Entertainment Access, giving users the ability to enjoy web connected content without bothering with an HTPC. 'Course, that "usually ships in one to two months" could stand to be a little more precise, but we'll take what we can get at this point.
LG announces LD950 passive shutter 3DTV for UK market
Just like everybody else in the display business, LG is trying to figure out exactly how they're going to position themselves to benefit from the upcoming 3D Explosion! Since almost-sorta-not really pulling out of a deal with Sky TV to supply British pubs with 3D televisions, the company has announced that it will be offering its first 3DTV sets that uses polarization technology (as opposed to that active shutter stuff like NVIDIA's 3D Vision) to consumers. Presumably cheaper than its active shutter counterparts, the LD950 supports HDMI version 1.4, 1080p HD, external storage via USB 2.0 (with DivX HD, MP3, and JPEG support), and comes bundled with four pairs of polarized glasses. There's no word on a price or release date, but if it makes you feel better we can reveal that two new active 3D displays, the LX9900 (47-inch and 55-inch) and LX6900 (42-inch), featuring 1080p, Freeview HD, Netcast widgets (YouTube, Skype, Accu Weather, Picasa), and wireless AV link, will be available in May for a price yet to be determined.
LG BD550 Blu-ray player manual pops up on support site
We're still eagerly awaiting all the 2010 hardware that debuted at CES to show up on store shelves, so until then we'll take what we can get and today that would be an instruction manual for LG's BD550 Blu-ray player. Filling out the low end of the company's Blu-ray player lineup for this year there's no real surprises here: NetCast access means VUDU, Netflix and the works, but only two channel analog audio out and no video via USB. We're honestly more interested in the BD570 and 250GB hard drive packing BD590 but that shouldn't stop you from discreetly browsing this PDF for now and imagining setting up your Pandora accounts via its sleek remote -- so dirty.
LG reveals Full HD 3D projector, Skype-enabled HDTVs and more at CES
The show floor finally opened up here in Vegas today, and just as we knew they would, the product announcements are flowing hot and heavy. LG's one of today's biggest players, unleashing a whole bevy of new kit that truly spans the gamut of consumer electronic sectors. Kicking things off is the CF3D, which is hailed as the planet's first Full HD, 3D single lens type projector. As for specs, you'll get 3D auto picture calibration, a twin engine, two HDMI 1.3 sockets, 300 ANSI lumens and a single USB input, while the XGA HX300G won't do much of anyone outside of traveling salespeople much good. Moving on, there's a little confirmation of the Skype news that we caught wind of yesterday; sure enough, a range of LG's NetCast-enabled HDTVs will ship with Skype capabilities, though it sounds as if you'll need to budget for a standalone camera. LG's also making official that Mobile DTV-supporting DVD player that we first spotted at the tail end of last year, which will be in stores later this year for around $249. There's plenty more to share on these -- as well as a good bit surrounding a legion of new monitors -- so hop on past the break if you just can't get enough. %Gallery-81670%
LG presents 39 new LCD HDTVs, most with NetCast, some with 3D
Yes, this press release is pretty crazy, the sheer number of LCD HDTVs is impressive enough, but the various models offer just about anything you could want. The top of the line LE9500 Series (pictured above) is LG's first LED 3D HDTV offering, but is also ultra slim with a 8.5mm bezel, has optional wireless HDMI set-back box, Local Dimming, 480Hz, THX Certification, NetCast (VUDU, Netflix, DLNA and just about every other streaming service including Skype). In fact the only bad aspect of the LE9500 is that it is only available in 47 or 55-inch variety. The lineups goes down from there and there's something for everyone and you'll just have to click on the press release to see all 39 options. One thing you won't find in the release is the price or availability, which seems to be the trend this year at CES.
Skype HD: 720p videocalling from PCs or directly through LG & Panasonic HDTVs
Skype has already made an impact on the home phone, mobiles and PC desktops (couldn't do our podcast without it) and now it's taking on the living room. LG and Panasonic are already lined up to deliver new HD webcams for their internet connected plasma and LCD HDTVs that will enable living room-to-living room calling in 720p. With support for the service's standard features like free Skype-to-Skype calling, voicemail, receiving inbound calls and more, using the TV to make calls should be just as easy (but likely more embarrassing, try some HD makeup -- just a tip) as we're used to. PC users haven't been left behind with 720p HD streaming built into the latest client and new webcams on the way from faceVsion and In Store Solutions. Like the ones planned for the TVs, they handle video processing onboard so even older computers or underpowered netbooks can support HD streaming without bursting into flames. Let the good people at Skype explain it all to you in a video embedded after the break, we'll wait to get our hands and made-for-SD faces some time with the new setup this week at CES Update: We've found a few pics of LG's version of the Skype HDTV experience to go along with the Panasonic rendering above, check the gallery. %Gallery-81460%
VUDU equips LG's BD390 Blu-ray player with movie streaming abilities
LG's WiFi-enabled, DivX-friendly BD390 Blu-ray player has been shipping here in the States since May, but not until now have you really had a reason to pick one up. Here at CEDIA, VUDU is taking one step further away from its standalone movie set-top-box by announcing that the aforementioned deck will become the first of its kind to tap into VUDU's growing library of on-demand film rentals. Of course, adding VUDU to this player was a natural move given the built-in Ethernet port, though users will have to wait until the end of this month to suck down the free update. In case you're wondering, the VUDU interface on LG's player will be the same as the one found on the company's own hardware (not to mention a few LG HDTVs), and the $399 price point will remain the same even after the new functionality is added.
VUDU's 1080p movie streaming goes live on LG Netcast HDTVs
You knew good and well it was coming, and come it has. Starting today, those fortunate enough to own an LG Broadband HDTV in the LH50 LCD series and PS80 plasma range can tap into VUDU's growing library of on-demand 1080p films. If you're still skeptical, we'll invite you to surf over to your set's Netcast interface; from there, you can either update your software to gain VUDU access or begin viewing right away (depending on when you purchased your tele). Oh, and if you're thinking of just lallygagging around while the rest of the world takes advantage, you should know that your first HD or HDX movie rental is gratis for a limited time, so there's some pretty obvious motivation to hop on it. Anyone given it a go? Impressed / unimpressed?
VUDU ditches the box, integrates into LG's LH50 NetCast HDTVs
After a quick test run on Entone's IPTV boxes, VUDU has now done the deed with a big time player. In a joint announcement today with LG, the outfit is announcing its first major foray into STB-less movie streaming. LG's Netflix-friendly LH50 line of connected HDTVs will act as the hosts, with VUDU's tried and true high-def streaming service acting as the highly anticipated guest. The outfit's next generation movie platform will enable owners of the 47LH50, 50PS80, 60PS80 and 42LH50 to buy or rent HD and HDX (1080p) films on demand through a refreshed user interface that promises no stutters or buffering waits. The new VUDU also brings along instant fast forward and rewind as well as instant start for all movie qualities, and as before, there's no monthly fee associated with the service. Eager to dive on in? It'll be made available for everyone (existing owners included) starting next month, and just so you know, we definitely don't envision LG being the last TV maker to slip under VUDU's covers. The full release is after the break.Update: From the sounds of Vudu's solo PR, the LG sets are just the first off the line, so we'd expect a few more manufacturers to partner up soon.
LG's Netflix-friendly 47LH50 and 50PS80 NetCast HDTVs now shipping in America
Without a doubt, the next big thing in the world of HDTVs is internet capabilities. With Toshiba just shipping its own web-enabled sets this week, LG Electronics is making sure it doesn't fall too far behind by floating a few of its own NetCast models out to the open market. Originally unveiled at CES, these HDTVs are the first from the company with built-in Netflix streaming support, and if you're curious about model numbers, it's the 47-inch 47LH50 LCD HDTV and the 50-inch 50PS80 plasma that are available today. LG tells us that the 42-inch 42LH50 LCD and 60-inch 60PS80 plasma should hit later this summer, but if you're looking to buy now, you'll have to pony up $1,999 for the 47LH50 or 50PS80.
LG BD370 network Blu-ray player hands on
After popping up across the Pacific, our European brothers have gotten a peek at LG's next generation Netcast-enabled Blu-ray player, the BD370. Confirmed for April, they got a look at the YouTube frontend, but we're still waiting for more eyes-on time Stateside to check out the Netflix and CinemaNow capabilities for this followup to the well-received BD300. Additional pics are after the read link.
LG goes official with its NetCast effort
As we heard at the LG presser, the company is getting in on the Netflix, CinemaNow and YouTube streaming game with its NetCast feature built into select LH50-class LCDs and PS80 plasmas, so you can pick your pixel flavor. It's definitely getting crowded in the space, but the Yahoo! Widget Engine angle is what sets this offering apart. Combined with PC connectivity, we're anxious to see support for MKV and more coming down the pike. Fun times ahead, and we won't argue with the arms race-like competition between vendors to shoehorn more functionality into the living room. Hit the link if you're curious enough to peruse the official PDF.
LG kicks out a dozen HDTV product lines at CES 2009
Hold onto your hats, kids -- LG's dropping a fresh dozen HDTVs on the world here in Vegas, so let's not waste any time getting right down to it. We've got nine LCD series and three plasma lines ranging from 19- to 60-inches in size, with many sporting LED backlighting, TruMotion 240Hz technology and the wireless capabilities that are becoming all the rage. Speaking of, the LH50 and PS80 lines feature the outfit's NetCast Entertainment Access, which enable users to access Yahoo! Widgets, YouTube and Netflix content. Moving on, the LHX slim wireless LED-backlit TV (55-inches) comes in at under an inch thick and includes a media box that can transfer 1080p footage sans wires (via Wireless HDMI, we hear). Hit the read link if you're up for digesting some serious specs.
TUAW Podcast #12: Quicksilver and iCal
There wasn't much podcast-worthy news to chat about last week, so we thought it was the perfect time to do something different and bring you the first TUAW screencast evar! In this podcast (netcast!), I demonstrate that trick we covered last month of how to add iCal events and todos from Quicksilver, and I've ironed out a few details for a much more usable process. I figured this would be a great way to demonstrate some of Quicksilver's unique power with purty moving pictures, instead of the typical non-moving pictures. This screencast clocks in at 7:32, and it's 21MB of H.264 goodness.Speaking of goodness, we're soliciting feedback on this screencast (as if you need to be asked). This is my first screencast, so it's a little rough around the edges. I sound a lot better podcasting-wise, though I'm still working on picking up a Samson USB mic that reader Jules Stoop recommended, especially since I've seen it written up as *the* killer podcasting mic (I'm trying to find a good deal, since $80 is a little steep right now). But let us know what you think: too fast? Too slow? Do I sound like a muppet? I have a lot to learn about moving video between the big suites, as I have some good After Effects skills I could've used to spice this up, but I couldn't find a decent codec to preserve the quality when exporting the edited video out of Final Cut Pro (I especially am accepting workflow feedback on this topic). Rest assured, this is at the top my todos (pun intended!) for the next screencast, so I'll be able to add all sorts of flying text and 3D space aliens.But that's enough chatter for now: here's a direct link to TUAW Podcast #12, another link to our iTS podcast feed, and of course: our good ol' fashioned raw RSS feed.Update: Our iTS feed had a little bug that prevented this video from making the list, but it has since been fixed. Podcast #12 is ready to roll from the iTS Podcast Directory, so head over and grab a copy!
TUAW Podcast #11
It is time once again boys and girls for the TUAW Podcast. On this latest episode #11, Laurie A. Duncan and I got down to business discussing Apple's recent stock options investigation results, Steve's confirmed keynote for Macworld 07 as well as the event's doubled size, the upcoming new .Mac webmail and whether it's important, the growing passion for RSS readers and what I like to call Adobe's Universal Blunder™.The podcast (or for all y'all Leo supporters out there: netcast) in MP3 format (I know: we're working on support for an enhanced version) weighs in at just under 35MB and 38:08, and it's available from our TUAW podcast feed in the iTS, or right here. Enjoy.Update: we also have a dedicated podcast RSS feed for the non-iTS users out there: http://podcasts.tuaw.com/rss.xml.
Leo Laporte wants to rebrand podcasts as 'netcasts' - I agree
If you're a TWiT fan (or a listener of almost any of Leo's other 200 podcasts), you might have heard in the past couple of weeks that he's pushing to change the term 'podcast' to 'netcast.' He's even gone so far as to start using it in his lingo on the shows (at least on the few of his shows I can keep up with), and is looking to trademark the term. Now before you run off and flame TWiT's forums, just hear the man out - because I think he has a good idea.Leo has a couple of reasons for hoping to move the mountain that is now podcasting. The first is Apple's recent bullish attitude towards the terms 'pod' and 'podcast,' as they've been filing their own trademarks and sending nastygrams to companies who get even just a little too close to using these words in their names or products. For a term that was born out of the grassroots web broadcasting movement and coined out of love for Apple's little music player, this understandably felt like a slap in the face to many - including even Leo, who was recently dubbed podcaster of the year. Of course, on the flip side of that coin, I can also understand Apple's interest in protecting their product likeness and the word 'pod.' After all - when else has such a goofy, nerdy word become such an icon? Oh what a twisted web of vocabulary and intellectual property we weave.Leo's second reason, and one that I feel is a bit more significant, is the implication of the deep roots the term 'podcasting' itself has grown, in light of its relationship to the iPod as a word and a product. Leo laments that to so many of podcasting's new target demographic (i.e. - all the non-early adopters who aren't listening to them, yet), the term 'podcast' itself implies that one needs an iPod to download and listen to them. Of course, it's pretty obvious to us nerds that this assumption couldn't be farther from the truth, but that is exactly Leo's point - he wants to change the term to drop that stigma for 'the other half;' the people who might or might not have heard of podcasting, but ultimately don't know much about it. Podcasting is all about leveling the playing field so anyone with some talent can share it with the world - but in this context, the term 'podcasting' is a bit counterproductive to the effort of breaking down the walls for one and all.Let's face it - there are a lot of other DAPs out there, and a ton of other products on which one can listen to music. The 'song' wasn't renamed to 'pong' or 'iPong' - maybe it would be better, and more accessible, to adopt a generic term like 'netcast,' so more listeners can join the party.
