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[Sony's 4K-upscaling BDP-S790 Blu-ray player available online, hits stores May 6th]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/sony-4k-upscaling-bdp-s790-blu-ray-player-available-online-in-stores/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/sony-4k-upscaling-bdp-s790-blu-ray-player-available-online-in-stores/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/sony-4k-upscaling-bdp-s790-blu-ray-player-available-online-in-stores/#comments Sony's 4K-upscaling BDP-S90 Blu-ray player available online, hits stores May 6

If you've been itching for Sony to take your money since it announced its flagship BDP-S790 Blu-ray player, then get ready to open up that wallet. The device is now available at Sony's online store for $249.99, with an estimated ship date of April 24th. The dual-core player (yes, there's a dual-core CPU in here!) will also be available in stores on May 6th for folks who prefer schlepping their electronics the old-fashioned way. Besides 4K upscaling and 3D playback, the BDP-S790 features DLNA, Netflix, VUDU, Amazon Instant Video, Slacker, Pandora, Twitter and Facebook capabilities. For more details, feel free to peruse the PR after the break.

Continue reading Sony's 4K-upscaling BDP-S790 Blu-ray player available online, hits stores May 6th

Sony's 4K-upscaling BDP-S790 Blu-ray player available online, hits stores May 6th originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 06:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D4KBDP-S790blu-rayblu-ray 3dblu-ray playerBlu-ray3dBlu-rayPlayerdlnahdpostcrosshdpostmininetflixsonyvuduTue, 24 Apr 2012 06:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart to unleash its Vudu magic on South America, Europe, Asia]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/walmart-vudu-south-america-europe-asia/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/walmart-vudu-south-america-europe-asia/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/walmart-vudu-south-america-europe-asia/#comments Walmart to unleash its Vudu magic on South America, Europe, Asia

Walmart's Vudu service will be dipping a toe in foreign waters for the first time, with a planned expansion that could see it landing in as many as 30 new countries. Mexico will be the first to get the service -- some time in June -- before it continues in a southerly direction toward other Latin American states. The rest of the expansion will cover Europe (including the UK and Ireland) and Asia, but won't happen until later on in the year. While Netflix has already beaten a path away from US shores, Walmart clearly hopes its strong retail presence (5000 stores in 26 countries) will help it earn more than just a tourist visa.

Walmart to unleash its Vudu magic on South America, Europe, Asia originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 01:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiaeuropehdpostminiirelandmexicomovie rentalMovieRentalmoviesonline moviesOnlineMoviessouth americaSouthAmericastreamingstreaming video serviceStreamingVideoServicetvtv streamingTvStreamingukVuduWalmartWalmart VuduWalmartVuduMon, 23 Apr 2012 01:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Dreamworks Animation joins Walmart's disc to digital program]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/dreamworks-animation-disc-to-digital/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/dreamworks-animation-disc-to-digital/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/16/dreamworks-animation-disc-to-digital/#comments Image

DreamWorks Animation has signed up with Walmart's VUDU-powered disc to digital service. From today, you can take any of the studio's movies (such as Shrek or Kung-Fu Panda) and have them converted to standard quality video for $2 or a HD version for $5. There's no word on if DreamWorks proper would sign up, but given the complex nature of its ownership, we won't hold our breath.

Continue reading Dreamworks Animation joins Walmart's disc to digital program

Dreamworks Animation joins Walmart's disc to digital program originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Disc To DigitalDiscToDigitalDreamWorksDreamWorks AnimationDreamWorks SKGDreamworksAnimationDreamworksSkghdpostminiUltraVioletVUDUWalmartMon, 16 Apr 2012 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[D-Link releases budget-priced MovieNite streaming media player]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/d-link-releases-budget-priced-movienite-streaming-media-player/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/d-link-releases-budget-priced-movienite-streaming-media-player/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/d-link-releases-budget-priced-movienite-streaming-media-player/#comments D-Link releases budget-priced MovieNite streaming media playerBetter late than never, right? D-Link has finally decided to join the likes of Roku and Apple at the media streaming party with its new MovieNite device. It offers 1080p video content from Vudu, Netflix and YouTube, plus music streaming from Pandora and access to Picasa as well. Connectivity comes courtesy of 802.11n WiFi and a 10/100 Ethernet port, and plugs into your TV via HDMI 1.4 or composite video connections. You can control the thing with the included remote or via your handset with the free MovieNite remote app for Android or iOS. At 4.8 x 4.6 x 1.1 inches in size, it's a bit bigger than the offerings from Apple and Roku, but its $59.99 list price provides a cheaper avenue to 1080p content than either. It's available now exclusively at Walmart, and is currently a bargain at $48 online, though your in-store mileage may vary. PR's after the break.

Continue reading D-Link releases budget-priced MovieNite streaming media player

D-Link releases budget-priced MovieNite streaming media player originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pd-linkdlinkdsm-310hdmimedia streamermedia streamersmedia streamingMediaStreamerMediaStreamersMediaStreamingmovienitenetflixpandorapicasavuduyoutubeTue, 10 Apr 2012 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[WSJ: Walmart to offer in-store disc to digital UltraViolet service]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/wsj-walmart-to-offer-in-store-disc-to-digital-ultraviolet-servi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/wsj-walmart-to-offer-in-store-disc-to-digital-ultraviolet-servi/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/wsj-walmart-to-offer-in-store-disc-to-digital-ultraviolet-servi/#comments Walmart UltraVioletHollywood's latest digital ecosystem offers lots of promise, but in the five months since its release, it couldn't be further from delivering on it. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Walmart will finally make use of its membership to the Digital Entertainment Content Ecosystem by offering in-store disc to digital UltraViolet upgrade opportunities, for a small price of course. No doubt UltraViolet can use all the help it can get, but this is far from what we were hoping for when we learned Walmart would be in the mix -- we were hoping for the ability to buy and watch UltraViolet movies via Walmart's Vudu. Beyond our personal wishes, this no where near the big revelation that most consumers would actually find interesting: the release of the Common File Format which promises universal offline playback of our movie collection.

WSJ: Walmart to offer in-store disc to digital UltraViolet service originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DECEdisc to digitalDiscToDigitalhdpostcrosshdpostminiUltravioletVuduwal-martwall street journalWallStreetJournalWalmartWSJSun, 04 Mar 2012 14:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Toshiba's to release four new Blu-ray players in 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/toshibas-to-release-four-new-blu-ray-players-in-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/toshibas-to-release-four-new-blu-ray-players-in-2012/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/toshibas-to-release-four-new-blu-ray-players-in-2012/#comments Toshiba BDX5300 We'll never get over how odd it seems that Toshiba makes Blu-ray players, but nonetheless they do and have four new ones for 2012. By the looks of them, they all fit the new Aero family design, feature streaming options like Netflix, VUDU and MediaShare (a DLNA interface). The main differentiator is that the BDX3300 and BDX5300 include built-in WiFi while the BDX2300 and BDX4300 are simply WiFi ready -- only the 4300 and 5300 output 3D. None of them have prices yet, according to the press release after the break, but they are all due in April, with the exception of the BDX330, which is due in May.

Continue reading Toshiba's to release four new Blu-ray players in 2012

Toshiba's to release four new Blu-ray players in 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BDX2300BDX3300BDX4300BDX5300Blu-rayCESCES 2012Ces2012DLNAhdpostcrossMediaShareNetflixToshibaVUDUYoutubeTue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic carpet bombs CES with nine new Blu-ray players]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/panasonic-intos-nine-bluray-players-at-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/panasonic-intos-nine-bluray-players-at-ces/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/panasonic-intos-nine-bluray-players-at-ces/#comments It's that time again, folks. Panasonic has (figuratively) taken to the streets of Las Vegas in a ticker tape parade that's full of press releases. As part of the announcement, the company launched three 3D Blu-ray players for home theater systems, four stand-alone 3D models and two traditional Blu-ray units. The home theater group -- which includes the SC-BTT490, SC-BTT195 and SC-BTT190 -- each offer WiFi connectivity and DLNA certification, compatibility with the company's smartphone remote control app, and a new version of VIERA Connect that's replete with more online content. Notably, the SC-BTT490 features two HDMI inputs in addition to the traditional HDMI out. Each of the home theater models will be available in April.

Meanwhile, the four remaining 3D Blu-ray players -- the DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT500, DMP-BDT320 and DMP-BDT220 -- each support Panasonic's VIERA Connect, while the 2D models, the DMP-BD87 and DMP-BD77, are limited to Netflix, Vudu, CinemaNow and YouTube. Of this group, the 500, 320 and 220 each feature a 192kHz/32bit audio DAC, although the 500 ultimately makes it to the top of the pile with high quality terminals and capacitors. If you're curious to learn more about this heapin' pile of Panasonic wares, be sure to check the PR after the break.

Gallery: Panasonic DMP-BBT01, DMP-BDT500 and DMP-BDT320

Continue reading Panasonic carpet bombs CES with nine new Blu-ray players

Panasonic carpet bombs CES with nine new Blu-ray players originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dblu-raybluraycesces 2012Ces2012cinemanowdlnaDMP-BBT01DMP-BD77DMP-BD87DMP-BDT220DMP-BDT320DMP-BDT500hdpostcrossnetflixpanasonicSC-BTT190SC-BTT195SC-BTT490viera connectVieraConnectvuduyoutubeMon, 09 Jan 2012 20:36:00 EST<![CDATA[WD TV Live, Live Hub get an official iOS remote app, Vudu streaming and more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/wd-tv-live-live-hub-get-an-official-ios-remote-app-vudu-stream/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/wd-tv-live-live-hub-get-an-official-ios-remote-app-vudu-stream/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/wd-tv-live-live-hub-get-an-official-ios-remote-app-vudu-stream/#comments Western Digital is making sure its hardware can keep pace in the media streamer arms race, matching recent additions by Microsoft and Roku by issuing updates of its own. New services added to the WD TV Live and WD TV Live Hub boxes are Vudu (with HDX 1080p support, unlike the Xbox 360), SnagFilms, XOS College Sports, SEC Digital, Comedy Time and Watch Mojo. To help users navigate through all the extra content, it also recently rolled out its own official iOS remote app, although like Roku, there have already been a few unofficial options available as well. The WD TV remote is a free app and offers direct access to any of the services on your WD TV box and even multiplayer gaming provided all devices are on the same network. An Android version is said to be in the works, for now owners can check out all the details in the press release after the break or hit iTunes to download the app.

Continue reading WD TV Live, Live Hub get an official iOS remote app, Vudu streaming and more

WD TV Live, Live Hub get an official iOS remote app, Vudu streaming and more originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplehdpostcrossiosiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmedia streamerMediaStreamerminipostmobilepostcrossremoteremote appRemoteAppsnagfilmsvuduwd tv liveWD TV Live HubWdTvLiveWdTvLiveHubwestern digitalWesternDigitalWed, 21 Dec 2011 05:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft rolls out more new Xbox 360 apps including UFC and Vudu]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/microsoft-rolls-out-more-new-xbox-360-apps-including-ufc-and-vud/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/microsoft-rolls-out-more-new-xbox-360-apps-including-ufc-and-vud/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/20/microsoft-rolls-out-more-new-xbox-360-apps-including-ufc-and-vud/#comments The Xbox 360's most recent dashboard update changed everything around again, but its ultimate effect will continue to be felt over the next few weeks and months as more apps trickle out and add more functionality. A few more selections just went live today, and include highly anticipated options like UFC's PPV app, and access to Vudu (pictured after the break -- also, there's no HDX support yet, just HD) movie streaming. That's not all however as they're also joined by 4 on Demand (UK), ABC iView (Australia), Dailymotion, Demand 5 (UK), plus M6 and MSN Video (France). Also recently announced are plans to bring Orange TV in France to the Xbox 360 in the spring with live streaming of thirty TV channels and VOD access later. For its part, Vudu is trying to entice new customers with a $4.99 credit towards their first rental or purchase, plus a few other promotional pricing incentives. Check the press release after the break for more details, or just power on your console to see the channels that are available in your neck of the woods.

Continue reading Microsoft rolls out more new Xbox 360 apps including UFC and Vudu

Microsoft rolls out more new Xbox 360 apps including UFC and Vudu originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4 on demand4OnDemandabc iviewAbcIviewappschannelsdailymotiondemand 5Demand5fall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdate2011hdpostcrossorange tvOrangeTvppvufcupdatevuduxbox 360Xbox360Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Channel Master TV review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/channel-master-tv-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/channel-master-tv-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/14/channel-master-tv-review/#comments
If you prefer your DVR with no strings attached, your choices are pretty limited these days. You can of course roll your own, but admittedly, that isn't for everyone. Channel Master does plan to change that, though, as it's currently accepting pre-orders for its over-the-air DVR with over-the-top features that doesn't require a subscription. The Channel Master TV ($399) should be hitting retailers and homes this week, and since we love DVRs, especially when they're free from commitments, we decided to take it for a spin. Click through to see how it stacks up.

Continue reading Channel Master TV review

Channel Master TV review originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BluerayChannel MasterChannelMasterDVReSATAHarmonyHDhdpostcrossHdtvimpressionsNetflixon demand programmingOnDemandProgrammingOnDemandTvpreviewreviewTVvideoVuduWed, 14 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360's new video services won't all launch right away; Comcast, Verizon, and HBO Go delayed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360s-new-video-services-wont-all-launch-right-away-comca/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360s-new-video-services-wont-all-launch-right-away-comca/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/xbox-360s-new-video-services-wont-all-launch-right-away-comca/#comments Microsoft's new dashboard for the Xbox 360 is close at hand (read our full review for the details) but not all of the video partners that were announced for the new Kinect-centric experience will be launching alongside it. As of launch December 6th the list will look basically the same as it does now, with Lovefilm and Epix joining options like Netflix, Hulu Plus, and Sky Go. Later on in the month more new providers like Crackle, Dailymotion, Rogers On Demand, Vudu, and Verizon FiOS TV will filter in, while the UFC app is timed to launch December 20th. Finally, a few highly anticipated additions including MLB.tv, HBO Go and Comcast's Xfinity On Demand are among those slated for arrival in "early 2012". Check after the break for the complete list (update: and a video trailer), we'll let you know about more specific launch dates as they become available.

Gallery: Xbox 360 Fall Dashboard update 2011 Video Service screenshots

Continue reading Xbox 360's new video services won't all launch right away; Comcast, Verizon, and HBO Go delayed

Xbox 360's new video services won't all launch right away; Comcast, Verizon, and HBO Go delayed originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appscomcastconsoleepixfall dashboard updatefall dashboard update 2011FallDashboardUpdateFallDashboardUpdate2011fiosfios tvFiosTvhbo goHboGohdpostcrosskinectlovefilmmicrosoftmlb.tvrogersufcverizonvideovuduxbox 360Xbox360xfinityMon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Companion app for WP7 shown off at Nokia World, leaks Vudu integration (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-shown-off-at-nokia-world-leaks-vudu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-shown-off-at-nokia-world-leaks-vudu/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/xbox-companion-app-for-wp7-shown-off-at-nokia-world-leaks-vudu/#comments Even if you're not planning on picking up one of Espoo's latest handsets, Microsoft is also on the scene at Nokia World 2011 giving live demos of the upcoming Xbox Companion remote app for Windows Phone 7. It allows for simple remote control of video playback on one's console, plus content browsing / search with Bing and other metadata display, as seen in two demo videos from the show floor embedded after the break. Also seen in both of the demo videos? An orange tile suspiciously labeled Vudu Movies, despite the lack of any official announcement that the (currently PS3 exclusive) Wal-mart owned service is coming to Xbox Live. A third demo shows off gaming integration with Kinectimals that lets animals jump back and forth from console to phone. Now that the Xbox 360 will integrate search and playback from more video services than ever after the fall update, we'll see if the remote app draws Xbox fans to Microsoft's phone platform.

[Thanks, @AttilaG]

Continue reading Xbox Companion app for WP7 shown off at Nokia World, leaks Vudu integration (video)

Xbox Companion app for WP7 shown off at Nokia World, leaks Vudu integration (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbinghdpostcrosskinectmangomicrosoftmobilepostcrossnokianokia worldnokia world 2011NokiaWorldNokiaWorld2011remote appremote controlremote control appRemoteAppRemoteControlRemoteControlAppsearchvideovuduwindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7xbox 360xbox 360 remotexbox companionxbox companion appxbox livexbox remoteXbox360Xbox360RemoteXboxCompanionXboxCompanionAppXboxLiveXboxRemoteFri, 28 Oct 2011 12:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharp's biggest LCD HDTVs get even bigger with a new 80-inch model]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/sharps-biggest-lcd-hdtvs-get-even-bigger-with-a-new-80-inch-mod/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/sharps-biggest-lcd-hdtvs-get-even-bigger-with-a-new-80-inch-mod/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/27/sharps-biggest-lcd-hdtvs-get-even-bigger-with-a-new-80-inch-mod/#comments When is big not big enough? Apparently when it's Sharp's "spectacularge" 70-inch AQUOS LCD HDTVs that were introduced earlier this year, and have now been surpassed by a new 80-inch model the company showed off today. The LC-80LE632U isn't an Elite branded model, but it brings all the features of its smaller brethren including full LED backlighting, 120Hz motion processing, built-in WiFi and access to services like Netflix and Vudu. All that is nice, but it's standout feature is that extra viewing area, which can be yours for $5,499 (MSRP) when it starts shipping in early October. Preorders are already popping up for sub-$5k prices, if you need a big screen and can't go the projection route (front or rear) this might be a good value -- check out the details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Sharp's biggest LCD HDTVs get even bigger with a new 80-inch model

Sharp's biggest LCD HDTVs get even bigger with a new 80-inch model originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 20:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>80-inchaquosaquos advantageaquos netAquosAdvantageAquosNetbiggestfull ledFullLedhdpostminihdtvlc-80632ulcdledled backlitLedBacklitnetflixoctobersharpvuduwifiTue, 27 Sep 2011 20:41:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 firmware update v3.70 adds auto-save cloud storage for subscribers, updates XMB and 3D support]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/ps3-firmware-update-v3-70-adds-auto-save-cloud-storage-for-subsc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/ps3-firmware-update-v3-70-adds-auto-save-cloud-storage-for-subsc/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/ps3-firmware-update-v3-70-adds-auto-save-cloud-storage-for-subsc/#comments As if saving your PS3 games to the cloud wasn't convenient enough, Sony's gone and automated the process for PlayStation Plus subscribers. The v3.70 software update offers an automatic sync option for trophies and game save states, giving members exclusive access to their gaming goods wherever they go. The firmware also packs a few additional features for non-paid users, adding a recommendation function to items in the PlayStation store, and a new "TV / Video Services" XMB category for Netflix, Hulu PLUS and VUDU apps. Sony's also thrown in a few 3D tweaks, with MPO format compatibility for photos, and support for Java-based special features and DTS-HD MA and DTS-HD HR audio output for 3D Bluray movie playback. Although the gaming giant hasn't announced an official date for the release, expect it to hit your home console soon.

Update: Joystiq's reporting that the update has just gone live.

PS3 firmware update v3.70 adds auto-save cloud storage for subscribers, updates XMB and 3D support originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D3d blu-ray3dBlu-raycloudfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdatehdhdpostcrosshulu plusHuluPlusnetflixPlayStationPlaystation 3playstation plusPlaystation3PlaystationPlusSonySony Playstation 3Sony PS3SonyPlaystation3SonyPs3trophiesupdatev3.70VuduWed, 10 Aug 2011 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu starts streaming movies to the iPad, chooses the web app route]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/vudu-starts-streaming-movies-to-the-ipad-chooses-the-web-app-ro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/vudu-starts-streaming-movies-to-the-ipad-chooses-the-web-app-ro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/10/vudu-starts-streaming-movies-to-the-ipad-chooses-the-web-app-ro/#comments Now that Vudu has started streaming movies to PCs over the web, we're not surprised that starting today, it's moving to the iPad as well but what is surprising is the decision to stream over the web and forego a dedicated app. This approach lets the Wal-mart-owned (and fully integrated) video delivery company avoid the restrictions of Apple's app store and any additional fees, but unfortunately still means that like the PC, it's restricted to standard definition resolution and due to licensing issues is missing any flicks from Disney. The company plans to keep expanding onto other platforms like Android soon (if you must, the site does work on the iPhone right now but the UI isn't optimized for it yet) but it appears accessibility is replacing high quality HDX streaming as the service's most notable trait, for better or worse.

Continue reading Vudu starts streaming movies to the iPad, chooses the web app route

Vudu starts streaming movies to the iPad, chooses the web app route originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 02:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple ipadAppleIpadiosipadmovie streamingMovieStreamingstreamingtabletvuduwal-martwebweb appWebAppWed, 10 Aug 2011 02:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Walmart brings Vudu into the fold, still can't stream you tube socks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/walmart-brings-vudu-into-the-fold-still-cant-stream-you-tube-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/walmart-brings-vudu-into-the-fold-still-cant-stream-you-tube-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/walmart-brings-vudu-into-the-fold-still-cant-stream-you-tube-s/#comments Walmart and Vudu Roughly 18 months after plunking down the cash for Vudu, Walmart has finally made the streaming media service an integrated part of its web store. Fans of digital video can now stop by the discount retailer's site and rent flicks for between $1 and $5.99 or purchase them $4.99 and up. The service compliments Walmart's sizable physical media library with over 20,000 titles that can be played directly from the website, as well as on Vudu-enabled devices like connected TVs, Blu-ray players, and steaming media boxes such as the Boxee Box. If you're a fan of companies tooting their own horn, check out the PR after the break.

Continue reading Walmart brings Vudu into the fold, still can't stream you tube socks

Walmart brings Vudu into the fold, still can't stream you tube socks originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>movie rentalsMovieRentalsrentalsstreaming mediastreaming videoStreamingMediaStreamingVideovuduwal-martwalmartTue, 26 Jul 2011 13:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu movie purchases get physical, starting with Battle: Los Angeles movie cards]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/14/vudu-movie-purchases-get-physical-starting-with-battle-los-ang/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/14/vudu-movie-purchases-get-physical-starting-with-battle-los-ang/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/14/vudu-movie-purchases-get-physical-starting-with-battle-los-ang/#comments How do you combine a purely online service (Vudu) with a primarily brick-and-mortar retailer (Walmart)? Apparently the answer is cards, like Xbox Live and many other services before them, Vudu will have redeemable digital movie cards available for purchase at the store. Action flick Battle: Los Angeles is first up, with $14.96 cards hanging up in Walmart entertainment sections everywhere starting today. Unfortunately, it's for a standard definition stream only. It does save a couple of bucks off of the $16.96 DVD price, but with no hope of trade or even lending to a friend it's tough to justify as a bargain over the PS3-demo packing Blu-ray. While reaching out to retail customers with cards and PC streaming is fine, these standard-def limitations won't play well with an existing (albeit niche) audience that has come to expect high quality 1080p streams and surround sound.

Continue reading Vudu movie purchases get physical, starting with Battle: Los Angeles movie cards

Vudu movie purchases get physical, starting with Battle: Los Angeles movie cards originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battle: los angelesBattle:LosAngelescardsdigital movie cardsDigitalMovieCardshdmoviesstandard definitionStandardDefinitionvuduwalmartTue, 14 Jun 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Roku streamers officially available at Walmart, no Vudu channel in sight]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/roku-streamers-officially-available-at-walmart-no-vudu-channel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/roku-streamers-officially-available-at-walmart-no-vudu-channel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/roku-streamers-officially-available-at-walmart-no-vudu-channel/#commentsThough it had already been spotted online, Roku confirmed today that its media streamers are available at physical Walmart stores nationwide. Pitching it as an option for Father's Day gifts, the press release and accompanying blog post highlight the value at $78 for a Roku XD, but we're pretty sure for some all you need to say is MLB.tv. There's no word of any tie-ins with Walmart's Vudu service, but its hard to imagine the retailer being excited to move a box that won't eventually include access to its own offerings.

Continue reading Roku streamers officially available at Walmart, no Vudu channel in sight

Roku streamers officially available at Walmart, no Vudu channel in sight originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdrokuroku xdRokuXdvuduwalmartMon, 13 Jun 2011 14:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Roku streamers pop up at Walmart, could a Vudu channel be on the way?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/roku-streamers-pop-up-at-walmart-could-a-vudu-channel-be-on-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/roku-streamers-pop-up-at-walmart-could-a-vudu-channel-be-on-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/10/roku-streamers-pop-up-at-walmart-could-a-vudu-channel-be-on-the/#commentsZatz Not Funny points out the Roku XDS and XD streaming video players have popped up for sale on Walmart.com. Following the usual Walmart pricing they're a buck under the usual MSRPs, but the more interesting question is whether this portends the arrival of the (Walmart-owned) Vudu as a channel on Roku devices. It only makes sense Walmart would want to get its service included before these boxes make their way onto physical shelves, but we'd be more surprised if we didn't hear something before the Walmart star appears on Roku's official retail partners page.

Roku streamers pop up at Walmart, could a Vudu channel be on the way? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channelhdretailretailerrokuroku xdroku xdsRokuXdRokuXdsvuduwalmartFri, 10 Jun 2011 13:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi officially prices 2011 HDTVs including a 92-inch DLP and 75-inch LaserVue]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/mitsubishi-officially-prices-2011-hdtvs-including-a-92-inch-dlp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/mitsubishi-officially-prices-2011-hdtvs-including-a-92-inch-dlp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/01/mitsubishi-officially-prices-2011-hdtvs-including-a-92-inch-dlp/#comments Other manufacturers may say they're living large with their latest HDTVs, but Mitsubishi's "Go Big" slogan is supported by the biggest displays available for 2011. It's finally revealed details on the models, with new features including a clearer screen and 16 speaker soundbar with support for a wireless subwoofer on its top of the line 840-series that includes the 92-inch model (pictured above) we saw at CES. The other big addition for 2011 is support for Mitsubishi's iOS remote control app in the LaserVue TV as well as the 740 and 840 series DLPs. If you don't need those features, a built in IR emitter for 3D glasses or Stream TV Vudu Apps then look at the lower end 640-series rear projection sets. Still, no matter what the trim level, the new Mitsubishi is strictly a 73-inch and over TV manufacturer so it's definitely going to be big, whether it's the 840 series that ships in July or any of the other models that will be available this month. Specs and MSRPs are in the press release after the break, from the 73-inch 640 series for $1,599 all the way up to the $5,999 92-inch.

Continue reading Mitsubishi officially prices 2011 HDTVs including a 92-inch DLP and 75-inch LaserVue

Mitsubishi officially prices 2011 HDTVs including a 92-inch DLP and 75-inch LaserVue originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3d tv3dTv92-inchdlplaserlaservuemitsubishirear projectionRearProjectionstream tvStreamTvvuduvudu appsVuduAppswd-92840Wed, 01 Jun 2011 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu has a one touch button too, on some Vizio remotes]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/23/vudu-has-a-one-touch-button-too-on-some-vizio-remotes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/23/vudu-has-a-one-touch-button-too-on-some-vizio-remotes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/23/vudu-has-a-one-touch-button-too-on-some-vizio-remotes/#comments If you picked up one of Vizio's new HDTVs or Blu-ray players lately you may already know this but for those who haven't, Vudu is proud to announce it's scored its own one-touch button on the remote as seen above. It's sitting right next to the Netflix button we'd heard about last year that's popping up on more and more models, and if you like the company's HDX style, should make it even easier to get to. Of course, this will be much more interesting if Walmart ever decides to take Vudu the subscription route and competes directly with Netflix, but we'll take it one step at a time. Check after the break to see the list of models with the button.

Update: Just in case you were wondering, the third one touch button on the other side is for Amazon VOD. [Thanks, Kingfriday]

Continue reading Vudu has a one touch button too, on some Vizio remotes

Vudu has a one touch button too, on some Vizio remotes originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 May 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-ray playerBlu-rayPlayerbuttonhdhdtvnetflixremoteviziovuduMon, 23 May 2011 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu adds TV shows to its rental catalog, but only some are in HD]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/vudu-adds-tv-shows-to-its-rental-catalog-but-only-some-are-in-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/vudu-adds-tv-shows-to-its-rental-catalog-but-only-some-are-in-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/vudu-adds-tv-shows-to-its-rental-catalog-but-only-some-are-in-h/#comments Here we go again with a good news / bad news announcement from Vudu, as it's added a nice catalog of TV shows to its library for rent and/or purchase. The bad news however, is that despite having the 1080p / 5.1 audio HDX technology we've come to know and love, it's currently only offering a small subset of them in anything other than standard definition. Like other online stores, there's an odd situation where some things are a decent value (season one of The Walking Dead is $26.99 on Blu-ray at Amazon, $15.99 on iTunes in HD, and $16.99 on Vudu HDX) and others are not (season six of Weeds is $27.99 on Vudu HDX, $23.99 on Blu-ray at Amazon and $38.87 on iTunes) so shop carefully. Given time the library will probably even out more in quality and price and once Vudu is available on more devices (and hopefully in HD on the PC at some point) there will be more reasons to consider it as a VOD option.

Vudu adds TV shows to its rental catalog, but only some are in HD originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 May 2011 05:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcamccwfoxshowtimestarzstreamingthe walking deadTheWalkingDeadtv seriesTvSeriesvuduweedsWed, 04 May 2011 05:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: What's the most important feature for a Netflix competitor?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/poll-whats-the-most-important-feature-for-a-netflix-competitor/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/poll-whats-the-most-important-feature-for-a-netflix-competitor/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/poll-whats-the-most-important-feature-for-a-netflix-competitor/#comments The rumor mill indicates we can expect serious competition for Netflix's Watch Instantly service sometime soon, so we're wondering what features anyone else diving into the game may want to focus on in order to get your attention. Given the service's wide reach we figure you're probably a subscriber or at least gave it a shot whether by word of mouth or through one of those annoying pop under ads (why do they still run those?) and have seen some room for improvement. We've put a few of our ideas as options in the poll below, let us know what you'd like to see most in the comments below.

View Poll

Poll: What's the most important feature for a Netflix competitor? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazon prime instant videoAmazonPrimeInstantVideocineamnowhdhulu plusHuluPlusnetflixpollpollsprime instant videoPrimeInstantVideoredboxstreamingsubscription servicesSubscriptionServicesvuduvutopiawatch instantlyWatchInstantlySun, 24 Apr 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[L.A. Times sees possible competition for Netflix coming from Walmart, Best Buy, Vutopia and more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/l-a-times-sees-possible-competition-for-netflix-coming-from-wal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/l-a-times-sees-possible-competition-for-netflix-coming-from-wal/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/l-a-times-sees-possible-competition-for-netflix-coming-from-wal/#comments Until Amazon launched its Prime Instant Video service earlier this year Netflix was almost completely alone on the subscription video streaming mountaintop, but an article this weekend in the Los Angeles Times suggests there could be competition on the way. There's plenty of rumoring from analysts and the typical "people familiar with the matter, but their sources have been on the money in the past and indicate retailers like Walmart and Best Buy are seriously considering angling their Vudu and CinemaNow efforts in the subscription direction instead of VOD like they've done so far. Meanwhile Hulu Plus is reportedly considering expanding its movie selection, and Amazon is likely to puff up its offerings while iN Demand, the PPV baby of the cable companies, is considering expanding its 200~ title Vutopia service. Still, according to the article no one's signed any of the big checks necessary to take on the 20-million subscribers strong behemoth yet, but don't be surprised if serious competition arrives shortly.

L.A. Times sees possible competition for Netflix coming from Walmart, Best Buy, Vutopia and more originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 20:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon primeAmazonPrimebest buyBestBuycinemanowcompetitionhdhulu plusHuluPlusin demandInDemandinternet videoInternetVideomovie rentalMovieRentalnetflixprime instant videoPrimeInstantVideostreamingsubscriptionvuduvutopiawal martWalMartwatch instantlyWatchInstantlyFri, 22 Apr 2011 20:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu starts streaming movies to the browser, but only in SD]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/vudu-starts-streaming-movies-to-the-browser-but-only-in-sd/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/vudu-starts-streaming-movies-to-the-browser-but-only-in-sd/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/12/vudu-starts-streaming-movies-to-the-browser-but-only-in-sd/#comments Vudu's movie service is already available on 300-odd set top boxes and HDTVs including the PS3 and Boxee Box, but now it can add your personal computer to the list since it will start streaming its entire catalog right on the company's website. The Flash-based player will let customers watch movies they've rented or purchased like any other device, but due to licensing issues it's limited to a maximum 480p resolution with stereo sound for now. That's disappointing for a company that pioneered high quality 1080p streaming with its HDX format but it could help attract customers who find a rental packed in with one of their DVDs or Blu-ray discs from Walmart. There's no word yet on plans for mobile devices, but general manager Edward Lichty confirmed to us it plans to make content accessible in "as many places as possible" so we'd expect to hear something on that front soon (but probably after the launch of premium VOD.) Until then, there's a few more screens in the gallery and a press release after the break or you can just check out the 2.0 interface for yourself on Vudu.com once everything goes live.

Gallery: Vudu.com streaming

Continue reading Vudu starts streaming movies to the browser, but only in SD

Vudu starts streaming movies to the browser, but only in SD originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>480padobe flashAdobeFlashbrowserflashmoviepurchaserentalsdstreamingvuduvudu.comwalmartTue, 12 Apr 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Theater owners ready to fight over $30, 60-day window VOD movies]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/09/theater-owners-ready-to-fight-over-30-60-day-window-vod-movies/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/09/theater-owners-ready-to-fight-over-30-60-day-window-vod-movies/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/09/theater-owners-ready-to-fight-over-30-60-day-window-vod-movies/#comments While we're not exactly in a hurry to spend $30 each on 60-day delayed movie rentals, theater owners are quite upset by the whole premium video-on-demand plan apparently being pushed by Warner, Sony, Fox and Universal. The most active objector so far appears to be AMC Theaters, which announced yesterday (press release after the break) it would notify studios that it plans to "adapt its economic model" regarding movies bound for p-VOD. What it wants is likely a bigger slice of the revenue and also a heads up on which movies will be getting the earlier releases. Rival theater chains Regal and Cinemark have already expressed plans to cut promotion and screens for movies headed to p-VOD, but without any official announcement it's still not clear which movies those will be. Of course, cutting down promo and screens cuts into the theater's own revenue, so we'll wait to see who blinks first. (Hint: it won't be us -- we wouldn't pay $30 to watch The Adjustment Bureau on Mars, much less in our own living rooms on DirecTV, Vudu or Comcast.)

Continue reading Theater owners ready to fight over $30, 60-day window VOD movies

Theater owners ready to fight over $30, 60-day window VOD movies originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 20:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>60 day window60DayWindowamc theatersAmcTheaterscinemarkcomcastdirectvfoxhd vodHdVodmoviespremium vodPremiumVodregalsony picturesSonyPicturestheateruniversalvideo on demandVideoOnDemandvodvuduwarnerwarner brosWarnerBrosSat, 09 Apr 2011 20:12:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV, Comcast, Vudu could start offering 'premium VOD' $30 movie rentals in April]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/31/directv-comcast-vudu-could-start-offering-premium-vod-30-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/31/directv-comcast-vudu-could-start-offering-premium-vod-30-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/31/directv-comcast-vudu-could-start-offering-premium-vod-30-mo/#comments Despite the questionable appeal of watching movies two months after they come out in theaters for $30 a pop, The Hollywood Reporter reports Warner Bros., Sony, Fox and Universal are going ahead with their premium video on-demand scheme. According to the always helpful unnamed insiders, DirecTV will be launching the service nationally at the end of April, with Walmart-backed Vudu and a regional launch by Comcast soon after. Company Town mentions movies like The Adjustment Bureau, Paul, or Just Go With It could be among launch titles. There's no word on DRM although apparently Paramount has taken a pass specifically due to piracy concerns -- theater owners aren't happy either -- so we'll just wait and see if the quality of scene rips suddenly make a jump by this time next month. Either way, expect some new variation of Gregor and his lap giraffe to make an appearance soon.

DirecTV, Comcast, Vudu could start offering 'premium VOD' $30 movie rentals in April originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comcastdirectvfoxfox searchlightFoxSearchlightlap giraffeLapGiraffepremium vodPremiumVodsonysony picturesSonyPicturesuniversalvideo on demandVideoOnDemandvodvuduwarnerwarner bros.WarnerBros.Thu, 31 Mar 2011 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Redbox is planning a Netflix-like subscription streaming movie service, could partner with Amazon or Walmart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/17/redbox-is-planning-a-netflix-like-subscription-streaming-movie-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/17/redbox-is-planning-a-netflix-like-subscription-streaming-movie-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/17/redbox-is-planning-a-netflix-like-subscription-streaming-movie-s/#comments According to Company Town, Redbox prez Mitch Lowe informed analysts yesterday that its upcoming online movie service would be subscription-based like Netflix and Hulu Plus instead of charging per-movie like iTunes, Zune or Amazon VOD (we can guess why.) Users would pay the monthly fee to stream to various devices (perhaps to the new iPhone and Android apps) and access discs at the kiosks. Lowe mentioned Redbox would have a partner in the service and while previous rumors pointed to CinemaNow, the Seattle Times suggests Walmart / Vudu and Amazon -- rumored to be launching a subscription service of its own this month -- as possibilities. Meanwhile, in its existing disc based business, word is Disney has decided to raise the amount it charges Netflix and Redbox for each DVD to the full wholesale price, although they'll still be available the same day the DVDs go on sale.

Redbox is planning a Netflix-like subscription streaming movie service, could partner with Amazon or Walmart originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 05:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncinemanowdigital deliveryDigitalDeliverydisneyhulu plusHuluPlusmovie downloadsMovieDownloadsnetflixredboxrentalstreamingsubscriptionvuduwal martWalMartThu, 17 Feb 2011 05:08:00 EST<![CDATA[iTunes stays on top of growing internet movie business in 2010, but 2011 could be very different]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/09/itunes-stays-on-top-of-growing-internet-movie-business-in-2010/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/09/itunes-stays-on-top-of-growing-internet-movie-business-in-2010/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/09/itunes-stays-on-top-of-growing-internet-movie-business-in-2010/#comments While much of the news lately has surrounded subscription internet movie and TV services the video on-demand market was up nearly 40% last year and is expected to keep growing. According to stats from IHS Screen Digest, video revenue for the Apple iTunes store grew 60 percent last year, but saw its overall market share shrink from 74.4 to 64.5 percent. This is mostly explained as a side affect of the Kinect driving up Microsoft Xbox 360 sales at the end of last year and introducing its Zune store to a new market of families looking for digital entertainment. The up and comer to watch for 2011 appears to be the Wal-mart/Vudu combo, currently fourth in line behind Sony but poised to grow by showing up on more devices and increasing its promotional efforts. Of course, as NewTeeVee points out, the ultimate wild card in all of this is the launch of Ultraviolet buy-once/watch-anywhere DRM later this year (without support from Apple or Disney) and the effect it could have by causing consumers to see digital downloads as a viable option instead of the fragmented mess they are now -- good luck with that.

[Thanks, Aaron]

iTunes stays on top of growing internet movie business in 2010, but 2011 could be very different originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 06:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystihs screen digestIhsScreenDigestinternet videoInternetVideoisuppliitunesmarket shareMarketShareplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkps3psnsonyultravioletvideo on demandVideoOnDemandvodvuduxbox 360Xbox360zuneWed, 09 Feb 2011 06:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Boxee names Viewster as first global VOD provider, still no word on Netflix]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/boxee-names-viewster-as-first-global-vod-provider-still-no-word/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/boxee-names-viewster-as-first-global-vod-provider-still-no-word/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/boxee-names-viewster-as-first-global-vod-provider-still-no-word/#comments
 It looks like Boxee may be punting its deadline for Netflix integration again, but it did throw global users a small bone via a new partnership with Viewster to add "premium VOD content." If the Viewster brand doesn't ring a bell, don't worry, we didn't know much about it either. A little sleuthing on its parent company site, though, revealed the service provides access to hit movies and TV shows (some in 720p), as well as day-and-date releases and ad-supported content "wherever possible." The site also boasts the library has 5,000 plus titles, licensed from over 100 suppliers like iTunes, Hulu, Sony, and ironically Netflix -- but that includes short content clips too. Naturally, we wanted to check out available titles for ourselves, but quickly learned that the library can only be browsed on Viewster-compatible devices after registering and providing payment details upfront, which set our scheme sensors a ringin'. Specifics on when Viewster access will appear on Boxee or what pricing will be like is also unknown, so for now feel free to join us in being vaguely underwhelmed after reading the full PR below.

[Thanks, PJ]

Continue reading Boxee names Viewster as first global VOD provider, still no word on Netflix

Boxee names Viewster as first global VOD provider, still no word on Netflix originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>720p720pVideoad supportedAdSupportedBoxeeboxee boxBoxeeBoxdivadiva agdiva.tvDivaAghdHD videoHdVideomoviesmovies on demandMoviesOnDemandstreamingstreaming videoStreamingVideotvtv showsTvShowsvideovideo clipsvideo on demandvideo on-demandvideo streamingVideoClipsVideoOn-demandVideoOnDemandVideoStreamingViewsterVODvuduMon, 31 Jan 2011 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu 2.0 interface moves beyond PS3 & Boxee Box, now available on most TVs, Blu-ray players]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/vudu-2-0-interface-moves-beyond-ps3-and-boxee-box-now-available-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/vudu-2-0-interface-moves-beyond-ps3-and-boxee-box-now-available-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/vudu-2-0-interface-moves-beyond-ps3-and-boxee-box-now-available-o/#comments Just shy of a month after it launched on the PlayStation 3 and days after debuting on Boxee's Box, the new Vudu 2.0 interface is live on most TVs and Blu-ray players with access to the service. Check out our earlier gallery if you're not familiar with the new look, it should be identical across the lineup (sans-Move support of course) with recommendations, enhanced sharing options and optimized for HD. For now it looks like the Yahoo! Widgets based Samsung and Vizio versions are the only ones still lagging but they're on deck for an update "soon."

Gallery: VUDU hits PS3 on November 23rd, UI overhaul coming mid-December

Vudu 2.0 interface moves beyond PS3 & Boxee Box, now available on most TVs, Blu-ray players originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pdigital deliveryDigitalDeliveryhdtvhdxinterfacestreaminguivuduvudu 2.0Vudu2.0Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget HD: What's the best connected TV for me?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-connected-tv-for-me/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-connected-tv-for-me/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/ask-engadget-hd-whats-the-best-connected-tv-for-me/#comments You can't walk down an electronics store aisle without three or four connected or smart TV platforms jumping out at you, but which one is actually the best? That's the question our friend Dwight wants to have answered, but we'll let him break down the situation:
"I'm looking into buying a new HDTV for the bedroom, there's no cable box in there currently and I'm not sure if I want to have a new line run anyway. What I'd like to do is get a TV that can stream Netflix and Vudu, as well as any downloaded videos from my PC or a USB drive and pictures from Facebook or Flickr without too much hassle. Built in WiFi would be a big plus and I really want to avoid needing an external set-top box. Is there anything out there that fits my needs?"
What he's describing seems to cross paths with any number of connected TVs from all the major manufacturers, but we figure a few of you probably have enough experience with them at home to know what's a good fit for this situation. Let us know how yours is working out in the comments, or if you think he's crazy for even attempting the all-in-one approach when there's so many set-top boxes and Blu-ray players out there.

Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.

Ask Engadget HD: What's the best connected TV for me? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appsAsk Engadgetask engadget hdAskEngadgetAskEngadgetHdconnected tvConnectedTvdisplaydlnaexpire-images:2011-2-18hdhdtvlcdnetflixpicturessmart tvSmartTvstreamingusbvuduwifiWed, 19 Jan 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu arrives on the Boxee Box, along with a host of big fixes (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/vudu-arrives-on-the-boxee-box-along-with-a-host-of-big-fixes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/vudu-arrives-on-the-boxee-box-along-with-a-host-of-big-fixes/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/vudu-arrives-on-the-boxee-box-along-with-a-host-of-big-fixes/#comments Ah, there we go. After a bit of a false start, Boxee's rolling out Vudu to the Boxee Box today -- you can either hold tight for the auto update in the next 24 hours, or trigger the manual update in Settings. Vudu's offering new users who sign up on the Boxee Box a $5.99 credit, which is the price of a single HDX rentals, so that's clever. Vudu remains Vudu -- 1080p/24 video, 5.1 audio -- but we'll obviously give it a look on the Box to check it out. As for other improvements, there are quite a few; highlights include better browser performance with HTTPS support, a sorting option to ignore "the" or "a" in titles, more deinterlacing controls, a whole host of bug fixes, and quite a bit more. Not bad -- we'll let you know if we discover anything crazy. PR and the full changelog after the break.

Update: Vudu's $2 for two nights deal applies to SD rentals, but you can get a single HDX rental for $5.99.

Continue reading Vudu arrives on the Boxee Box, along with a host of big fixes (update)

Vudu arrives on the Boxee Box, along with a host of big fixes (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxeebug fixesBugFixeshdxupdatevuduvudu hdxVuduHdxWed, 19 Jan 2011 15:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Vudu movie streaming app is (not) live on the Boxee Box - update]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/14/vudu-movie-streaming-app-is-live-on-the-boxee-box/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/14/vudu-movie-streaming-app-is-live-on-the-boxee-box/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/14/vudu-movie-streaming-app-is-live-on-the-boxee-box/#comments There's no official confirmation from Boxee's blog or Twitter account yet, but owners of its Box are experiencing a fully activated Vudu app with the SD, HD, HDX and 3D streams the service is famous for. The only glitches reported so far seem to have been cleared up by just restarting the device so hopefully whatever delayed its launch past the planned 2010 window is entirely resolved. There's no firmware update needed, so give it a shot if you haven't already, especially since Vudu's still offering a free flick for all new signups. With Netflix streaming still an unreachable dream for its Box (unless one also happens to own practically any other media streaming device on the market) we hope the company rewards its developers with a long, long break of at least five minutes before sending them back to work on our Watch Instantly access.

[Thanks, Parris]

Update: VP of Marketing Andrew Kippen has let us know that while the app was released to a few hundred testers "by mistake" it's been taken down so they can finish testing before it is eventually released "with much fanfare." Sorry Boxee devs, no five minute break for you today!

Vudu movie streaming app is (not) live on the Boxee Box - update originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dappboxeeboxee boxboxee box by d-linkBoxeeBoxBoxeeBoxByD-linkmovie streamingMovieStreamingvuduFri, 14 Jan 2011 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Boxee Box firmware gets updated, pulled -- still no Netflix and Vudu]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/boxee-box-firmware-gets-updated-pulled-still-no-netflix-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/boxee-box-firmware-gets-updated-pulled-still-no-netflix-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/10/boxee-box-firmware-gets-updated-pulled-still-no-netflix-and/#comments Ouch. Over the weekend, Boxee CEO Avner Ronen tweeted that a new firmware was imminent for the Boxee Box, and given that we'd all been led to believe that both Netflix and Vudu support were inbound shortly, the natural expectation was... well, natural. Late last night the company went live with a new build, but it was pulled from existence within a few hours. According to Boxee's blog post, the new update adds enhancements to control de-interlacing and video filters configuration, support for language selection in subtitle / audio, boosted browser performance and about 812 bug fixes. That's the good news. The bad news is two threefold: there's nary a mention of Netflix support, and while the team is just about there with Vudu, it's also remaining off of the list for this particular update. Moreover, the devs noticed such major issues that the software was yanked from the servers only hours after it was posted, and judging by official comments in the source link below, things still aren't totally ironed out. Translation? Hold tight for now, tough as it may be.

Boxee Box firmware gets updated, pulled -- still no Netflix and Vudu originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Boxeeboxee boxboxee browserBoxeeBoxBoxeeBrowserd-linkfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdatesoftwareSoftware UpdateSoftwareUpdateupdatevuduMon, 10 Jan 2011 08:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Boxee's unreleased Vudu and iPad apps (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/boxees-unreleased-vudu-and-ipad-apps-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/boxees-unreleased-vudu-and-ipad-apps-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/boxees-unreleased-vudu-and-ipad-apps-hands-on/#comments Boxee is here at CES showing off two unreleased products to eager Boxee fans and novices alike. We were sufficiently bummed when both Netflix and Vudu were delayed for the box, but we can report that they're definitely getting close to primetime. The Vudu app we saw was incredibly polished, quick, and had nice video quality even on the overcongested and questionable internet connection. It actually does a network test the first time you launch the app, but after that you can manually select to watch each program in either SD or HD. Unfortunately we weren't allowed to see the Netflix app in action because "Netflix would not be happy with us" according to Boxee chief and Engadget Show alum Avner Ronen. (It wasn't even loaded on the demo box -- we promise we looked). Head past the break for deets on the iPad app, as well as shots of it in action.

Gallery: Boxee's Vudu app hands-on

Continue reading Boxee's unreleased Vudu and iPad apps (hands-on)

Boxee's unreleased Vudu and iPad apps (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 22:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxeeboxee boxBoxeeBoxcesces 2011Ces2011hands-onipadnetflixvuduThu, 06 Jan 2011 22:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharp has 70-inch 3D LCD, soundbars and new Blu-ray players on deck for 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/sharp-has-70-inch-3d-lcds-soundbars-and-new-blu-ray-players-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/sharp-has-70-inch-3d-lcds-soundbars-and-new-blu-ray-players-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/sharp-has-70-inch-3d-lcds-soundbars-and-new-blu-ray-players-on/#comments Sharp intends to keep its position in the large LCD market with the help of two new lines which both top out at 70-inches -- finally. The LC-70LE732U 3DTV sits at the top of the LE835 series which is also set to be available in sizes ranging as small as 40-inches and is expected in February. No word on what any of these sets will cost ya, but they will all feature built-in WiFi and a wide range of streaming options including VUDU and Netflix, as well as other internet apps like Flickr, Facebook and Twitter. The trio of new 3D Blu-ray players, the BD-H25U, BD-H35U and BD-H75U, will also ship this February with many of the same network and streaming options as the TV, but will also be IP controllable for home automation fans. Meanwhile there are five new soundbars on tap starting with a USB model, the CP-USB500, for great sound on the go and ending with the HT-SL70 which can pass 3D signals via HDMI 1.4a and even supports an audio return channel.

Gallery: Sharp's 70-inch AQUOS Quattron at CES 2011


Gallery: Sharp soundbars and Blu-ray players at CES 2011

Continue reading Sharp has 70-inch 3D LCD, soundbars and new Blu-ray players on deck for 2011

Sharp has 70-inch 3D LCD, soundbars and new Blu-ray players on deck for 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D3DTV70-inchaquosAudio Return ChannelAudioReturnChannelBD-H25UBD-H35UBD-H75Ublu-rayblu-ray playerBlu-rayPlayercesces 2011ces2011CP-USB500FlickrHDMI 1.4aHdmi1.4ahdtvHT-SL70LC-70LE732UlcdNetflixquattronsharpVUDUWed, 05 Jan 2011 16:53:00 EST<![CDATA[LG's CES 2011 HD lineup: SmartTV platform, network Blu-ray players and HDTVs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/lgs-ces-2011-hd-lineup-smarttv-platform-network-blu-ray-playe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/lgs-ces-2011-hd-lineup-smarttv-platform-network-blu-ray-playe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/lgs-ces-2011-hd-lineup-smarttv-platform-network-blu-ray-playe/#comments Thanks to a couple of carefully planned slips over in South Korea, hardly anything about LG's CES 2011 is apt to take you fully by surprise. But if you just so happened to disconnect over the holidays, we'll break it all down below to ensure you remain firmly in the loop.
  • For starters, the outfit seems pretty darn proud of its new SmartTV platform. Hinted at last month, this system enables HDTVs, Blu-ray players and other sources to access all sorts of streaming media, apps and even provides users with a way to surf the web. Four main sections are given -- TV Live, Premium Content, TV Apps and a Launch Bar -- and for TV models, owners will control things with a wave of the hand (read: Magic Remote). SmartTV picks up where NetCast left off, offering access to Vudu, Netflix, YouTube, CinemaNow, Hulu Plus, Amazon Video on Demand, NHL Gamecenter, NBA Game Live and MLB.tv. This here functionality is baked into quite a few of the outfit's 2011 HDTVs, but should own an older model...
  • Then there's the all-new SmartTV upgrader! The ST600 is a minuscule set-top box that aims to transform any TV into a SmartTV. So long as your set has an HDMI input, you'll be able to access the content mentioned above. But, of course, it's on you to source your own Magic Remote.
  • If it's an all-new TV you're after, the company is also revealing its 2011 LED and LCD HDTV line. Nary a one is different than those we heard about last week, but at least you can now rest easy knowing that the LW9500 and LW7700 Nano Full HD 3D models will indeed see a stateside release this month. The best news here is the use of polarizing glasses -- none of that headache-inducing active shutter mess. There are 13 new LED LCD models in all, with nine of 'em shipping with the SmartTV platform embedded. Unfortunately, LG's not dishing out pricing information on these bad boys just yet.
  • Not so keen on picking up an LCD? Plasma still lives, you know! LG's rolling out its 1080p Infinia PZ950 and PZ750 lines here at CES, with both available in 50-inch and 60-inch class sizes. Both lines come equipped with the SmartTV platform, a gesture-based Magic Motion remote andl as a free Android / iPhone app if you'd rather use your phone as a remote. The 50- / 60-inch PZ550 is saddling with NetCast 1.0, but it -- along with the PW350, PZ950 and PZ750 lines -- can handle 3D imagery. Sadly, LG's also straying from providing pricing details on these.
  • Wrapping things up, the company is debuting its 2011 line of networked Blu-ray players and home theater systems. The BD690 supports 3D BD playback and ships with an inbuilt 250GB HDD and the SmartTV platform. The majority of LG's line also includes WiFi, DLNA streaming support and a MusicID feature by Gracenote that enables consumers to play a song from a movie of TV show by mashing a single button on the remote. The BD670, BD650, BD640, BD630 and BD650 are also seeing the light of day, with the latter being LG's first portable BD deck.
  • Finally, LG snuck in an image (seen above) of a 3D mobile TV prototype. We've no details whatsoever to go on, but you can rest assured we'll be scouring the show floor in search of just that.
For more information on all of the goods here, head on past the break for the full releases. Don't expect to find any pricing information, though.

Gallery: LG's CES 2011 launch lineup: Blu-ray, HDTV, 3D mobile TV prototype

Continue reading LG's CES 2011 HD lineup: SmartTV platform, network Blu-ray players and HDTVs

LG's CES 2011 HD lineup: SmartTV platform, network Blu-ray players and HDTVs originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p3d3d blu-ray3d hdtv3d tv3dBlu-ray3dHdtv3dTvactive shutterActiveShutterBD690blu-raybrowsercesces 2011ces2011cinemanowconnected tvConnectedTvdisplaydlnaGestureControlhdtvINFINIAlcdlcd hdtvlcd tvLcdHdtvLcdTvlglg appslg smart tvlg st600LgAppsLgSmartTvLgSt600LW5600LW6500LW7700LW9500LZ9700magic motionMagic Motion Remote ControlMagicMotionMagicMotionRemoteControlmobile tvMobileTvnano full ledNanoFullLednetflixpdpplasmapremium contentPremiumContentprototypePT350PV450PW350PZ550PZ750PZ950PZ950.regzaset-top boxset-top-boxSet-topBoxsmart tvsmart tv upgraderSmartTvSmartTvUpgraderst600stbthxvuduwebyoutubeWed, 05 Jan 2011 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[3D movies via VUDU coming next week]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/3d-movies-via-vudu-coming-next-week/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/3d-movies-via-vudu-coming-next-week/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/05/3d-movies-via-vudu-coming-next-week/#commentsVUDU with 3D screenshot
 Picked up a new 3DTV and you're seriously bummed that there's nothing to watch? Good news if you have one of the many VUDU capable streaming devices as next week is the week when 3D movies start heading your way. Said movies will be available in all the various resolutions we've come to expect, and will require the same amount of the bandwidth as the 2D streams. This and the fact that there's no mention of HDMI 1.4a leads us to believe this here 3D is of the frame compatible variety -- not that there's anything wrong with that. The attached press release is missing our favorite details like available titles and prices, but VUDU informed us via email that Disney's Bolt, Meet the Robinsons, and Chicken Little will be first on tap and there is a $1 premium for 3D for rentals and $2 more for purchases -- typically.

Continue reading 3D movies via VUDU coming next week

3D movies via VUDU coming next week originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 02:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3D3DTVcesces 2011ces2011VUDUWed, 05 Jan 2011 02:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix and VUDU not hitting Boxee Box till January... as if you couldn't have guessed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/31/netflix-and-vudu-not-hitting-boxee-box-till-january-as-if-you/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/31/netflix-and-vudu-not-hitting-boxee-box-till-january-as-if-you/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/31/netflix-and-vudu-not-hitting-boxee-box-till-january-as-if-you/#comments According to a post that's just gone live on Boxee's blog, users of the Boxee Box won't see VUDU or Netflix content on their TVs until January. We know, the wait will be painful. According to the Boxee team, VUDU offerings should hit the platform as soon as next week, but Netflix won't be made available until the end of the month. The company claims that both services are up and running in its offices, but more time was needed to "test each application to make sure they are ready for launch." It's nice to know where we stand, though it would have been even nicer to get more frequent updates on the status of these apps, instead of a last-minute blog post on New Year's Eve.

Still, the post has equal touches of hopefulness for the bright future Boxee sees for home entertainment, and acknowledgment of the massive challenges the startup faces in the coming year. In their words: "As we get ready for the New Year tomorrow and CES next week, it's clear that in 2011 we will be competing with companies that spend more feeding their employees that we have to pay ours. We're confident though that our small team will continue to push the envelop of what people expect from their TVs." Here at Engadget, we're eager to see how it all plays out, but we're definitely rooting for underdogs like Boxee who have pioneered so much of what the world is just waking up to. 2011 is going to be a crazy year!

Netflix and VUDU not hitting Boxee Box till January... as if you couldn't have guessed originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 31 Dec 2010 21:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Boxeeboxee boxBoxeeBoxbreaking newsBreakingNewsDelaydelaysinternet tvInternetTvNetflixvuduFri, 31 Dec 2010 21:43:00 EST