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VUDU teaches old boxes new tricks: HDX streaming, apps and more
It's unfortunately rare to see manufacturers extending support to hardware they no longer sell, but VUDU has reached back to owners of its set-top boxes and updated the software to bring them up to par with its platforms running on TVs and Blu-ray players. That means access to the VUDU Apps platform, access to 1080p, 5.1 audio HDX movies as instantly starting streams, not just downloads, movie trailers and social tie-ins with Twitter and Facebook. The new interface also means updates can be instantly pushed down from their end meaning easy access to any new features in the future. It all sounds good to us, go ahead and flick on your box and see if that new software works as well as promised.
VUDU throwing Rotten Tomatoes reviews on every movie it sells
Next step for VUDU after adding LG's BD390 to its list of compatible players? The streaming service is now trying to help you figure out which movie to watch with help from the website Rotten Tomatoes, integrating its ratings directly into the movie listings as seen above. Viewers can sort by Tomatometer score and see quotes from top reviews directly on their HDTV screen. Sure it's not auto Twitter updates and IMDB clippings on what scene, movie and actor you're watching, but if they're not going to reduce the cost per rented (or purchased) streaming flick, at least VUDU can help you pick one that's actually good. Check out another screen capture from the new addition after the break.
Mitsubishi now shipping VUDU powered 1080p streaming HDTVs
Joining LG and (eventually) VIZIO, Mitsubishi's new line of Diamond Unisen HDTVs are shipping with VUDU 1080p streaming capability built in, plus out of the box ability to handle the service's Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 surround audio, thanks to the 18 speakers peeking out of the bottom of the frame. The 46- and 52-inch LCDs can stream movies via Ethernet, or wirelessly with the optional VUDU wireless accessory bridge. Buyers unsure of whether the streaming experience can live up to expectations are encouraged to take advantage of an offer of two months of SD, HD and HDX movies (up to $50 worth) for free, so if the LT-46249 or LT-52249 find their way into your living room for anywhere near their respective $2,599 and $3,099 MSRPs, we'd plug that network cable in and give it a shot. Check the official PR after the break.
