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BBC iPlayer app finally launches for all UK Xbox 360s

Richard Lawler — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:48:00 EST

All of those Kinect-enabled Xbox 360 video apps Microsoft has been promising since last year's dashboard update continue to slowly leak out, and the latest is the BBC iPlayer. Already long available on the Nintendo Wii and PlayStation 3, UK gamers finally have access to the catalog of titles on any major console they choose. The Xbox 360 supports HD streams and, of course, voice and gesture control courtesy of that little add-on, however unlike many of the services on Microsoft's box, this one is available to all users with or without an Xbox Live Gold subscription. Platforms that are next up for iPlayer's blessing? Sky AnyTime+ is confirmed for later this year while a Windows Phone 7 is reportedly being developed. Check after the break for a couple more shots of the interface, plus a video demo for users on the appropriate side of the pond.

Continue reading BBC iPlayer app finally launches for all UK Xbox 360s

BBC iPlayer app finally launches for all UK Xbox 360s originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 05:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC's Director-General confirms instant video on-demand store is coming

Edgar Alvarez — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 23:37:00 EST

Just last week, rumors regarding the BBC's purported iTunes competitor were making the rounds. Now, thanks to Director-General Mark Thompson, we can confirm that it is indeed in the works. Currently known around the British offices as "Project Barcelona," the service is expected to be an à la carte media offering, allowing you to "purchase a digital copy of a program to own and keep for a relatively modest charge." Speaking of which, movies, TV shows and specials are expected to start at £1.89 and may be available minutes after they're broadcast on TV, though we've yet to hear an official word on pricing. The Broadcasting Corporation chief went on to say this isn't "a second license-fee by stealth or any reduction in the current public service offering from the BBC, it's the exact analogy of going into a high-street shop to buy a DVD." He didn't, however, give any deets on when we can expect the service to launch.

BBC's Director-General confirms instant video on-demand store is coming originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 23:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK

Richard Lawler — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:41:00 EST

Just as Netflix is nearly ubiquitous on media streaming platforms in the US, BBC's iPlayer is pretty much a default app in the UK so it's no surprise to see it show up on Roku's boxes just as they start shipping across the Atlantic. As detailed in the press release after the break, those shiny new Roku LT and Roku 2 XS hockey pucks are well on their way to punters who've shelled out £50 / £100, respectively, with over 40 available channels. Unfortunately, that announcement doesn't extend to global iPlayer support outside the UK and Republic of Ireland, so we'll have to catch up on Inside Men some other way.

Continue reading Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK

Roku adds BBC iPlayer channel as it starts shipping in the UK originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sky Anytime+ achieves impossible, will carry iPlayer (and ITV Player)

Daniel Cooper — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:46:00 EST

Sky's burgeoning Anytime+ VOD platform is getting a hefty boost today. It was previously open only to customers who also hitched to Sky Broadband, but that restriction's being gently relaxed: opening it up to all five million Sky+HD box owners. It's also somehow sweet-talked deadly rivals BBC and ITV into letting their offerings onto the platform -- with ITV Player arriving tomorrow and iPlayer slated for arrival later in the year. Head past the break for the official line while we sit here and grumble about the company buying up all the UK rights to Mad Men and charging a kings ransom.

Continue reading Sky Anytime+ achieves impossible, will carry iPlayer (and ITV Player)

Sky Anytime+ achieves impossible, will carry iPlayer (and ITV Player) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 09:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New BBC iPlayer stats chart the rise of 'connected' TV viewing

James Trew — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:57:00 EST

Thanks to widespread adoption and excellent cross-platform availability, the BBC's ubiquitous iPlayer is the perfect gauge of online viewing habits. New usage figures for December throw up little in the way of surprises, but still make impressive reading. The good old computer remains tops-of-the-client-pops for Brits, but smart TVs are taking a bigger slice of the (187 million) total requests, 7 million in fact -- a 1,000% year-on-year increase. More mobile telly-addicts saw smartphone and tablet views rise to thirteen million and ten million respectively, a growth of 163 and 596 percent. With 2012 offering ever more top gear and phones to chose from, we're expecting this trend to continue for some time yet. Square-eye stat-fans can hit up the source for the full breakdown. Hint: lots of Eastenders.

New BBC iPlayer stats chart the rise of 'connected' TV viewing originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC brings global iPlayer iPad app to Canada, one step closer to the US

Richard Lawler — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:59:00 EST

BBC Worldwide isn't quite ready to debut its "global" iPlayer app for the iPad here in the US yet, but now it's a bit closer after updating to v1.2.5 and becoming available in Canada. The app debuted back in July bringing iPlayer streaming access to tablets across Western Europe, before taking its programmes to Australia back in September. It will cost Canadians $8.99 per month for access BBC shows like Fawlty Towers, Whitechapel, and Hustle, but viewers in all 16 territories with access can snag one free episode per day through December 25th. The Hollywood Reporter indicates this is all part of a year long pilot phase with a next step of opening it up to US audiences, so those with patience don't need to put on their snowshoes and move to the Great White North just yet.

Continue reading BBC brings global iPlayer iPad app to Canada, one step closer to the US

BBC brings global iPlayer iPad app to Canada, one step closer to the US originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC's global iPlayer app adds AirPlay streaming, should just be on Apple TV

Richard Lawler — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 02:44:00 EST

British expats and international fans of BBC television alike can now stream some Gavin & Stacey to their televisions (past season 1 anyway, which is on Netflix and Amazon Prime Instant Video), as long as they're properly equipped. The global iPlayer app for iPad has been updated with AirPlay streaming (those in the UK however, have no such luck so far) so once users update to iOS 5 and buy an Apple TV box, they're in business. Of course, this would all be much simpler if iPlayer were just available on the Apple TV itself (without XBMC or other hacks), but no one asked us, did they?

BBC's global iPlayer app adds AirPlay streaming, should just be on Apple TV originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 02:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC iPlayer app gets a new look on the PS3 now, other devices later

Richard Lawler — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:57:00 EST

While we keep waiting for the BBC to release a version of its iPlayer on this side of the Atlantic, it's already upgrading UK PlayStation 3s with a brand new interface. Designed to be navigated by any standard remote, the main focuses are personalization and enhanced navigation to avoid scrolling through long lists, as well as bringing over synced iPlayer Favourites from the PC. The new UI is built on HTML5 and CE-HTML with an eye towards rolling it out easily on other devices soon, but there's also plans for a version built with Adobe Flash and AIR technology. Check after the break for a quick video demo of the new features which sadly does not include a new episode of Top Gear (UK version) -- we checked.

Continue reading BBC iPlayer app gets a new look on the PS3 now, other devices later

BBC iPlayer app gets a new look on the PS3 now, other devices later originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC releases 'global' iPlayer app for European iPads, €7 per month

Sharif Sakr — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 05:12:00 EST

The wonders of iPlayer are no longer the reserve of the Brits. As of today, iPad users in 11 other countries across Europe can subscribe to the service for €7 per month or €50 per year. That equates to $10 -- just about living up to the Beeb's promised maximum price. The subscription grants access to a wealth of TV classics, like Fawlty Towers and Only Fools & Horses, as well as unwitting comedies like EastEnders. Some sort of motoring series by the name of Top Gear is also available, for those who like cars and middle-aged men in pointy shoes. The app will allow for downloading as well as streaming, and marks a "pilot phase" for the service, which should hopefully reach the former colonial outpost of America before too long. Full details in the PR after the break.

Continue reading BBC releases 'global' iPlayer app for European iPads, €7 per month

BBC releases 'global' iPlayer app for European iPads, €7 per month originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 05:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Virgin Media TiVo gets an iOS app, adds BBC iPlayer catch-up streams

Richard Lawler — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:46:00 EST

The Virgin Media TiVo isn't done adding new features, as a staff member revealed that starting today the box has access to catch-up content from BBC's iPlayer. That comes just a few days after it followed up the launch of an Android remote DVR scheduling app with one for the iPhone, so some of the predictions we'd heard earlier may be coming true. The iPlayer links should be live now, hit the source link to grab the app from iTunes.

Virgin Media TiVo gets an iOS app, adds BBC iPlayer catch-up streams originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Boxee hits London with updated iPlayer app, Blinkbox video and new Media Server

Richard Lawler — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 07:23:00 EST

Boxee threw a meetup in London last night where it revealed the return of its BBC iPlayer app and upcoming addition of streaming movies and shows from Blinkbox. This continues a trend that has seen the addition of Headweb video on-demand for Scandinavian regions and Databazaar's library of Bollywood flicks in the last week. Boxee had iPlayer before but it stopped working after some technical changes, while the blog post reveals Blinkbox support is expected arrive around the end of the year. Boxee flashed its iPad app at the party too, promising to bring the existing experience to your tablet plus the ability to send video back to a Boxee Box for watching on the big TV screen. Finally, VP of marketing Andrew Kippen mentioned streaming locally stored video to the iPad from new Boxee Media Server software. While adding Plex-style functionality is nice by itself, we're just excited to see any kind of reference to the software for PC and Macs that seems to have been ignored since Boxee got into the Box business.

Boxee hits London with updated iPlayer app, Blinkbox video and new Media Server originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 07:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC expands iPlayer support on TiVo, Popcorn Hour and Freeview HD devices

Richard Lawler — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 11:50:00 EST

The BBC has a few updates to share about its iPlayer service -- no, nothing yet about the international rollout that's due later this year -- as it has recently become available on even more devices. That includes living room connected entertainment options that support HTML and Flash like the Virgin Media TiVo, Popcorn Hour players from Syabas, and new HDTVs from Panasonic and Sony. Other areas of increased availability include users with BT Vision set-top boxes and Freeview HD users; the latter thanks to a recent spec update that supports the MHEG-5 standard the app is built upon. Now it operates just like other Red Button interactive TV services, and the first device shipping with support is a Freeview+ HD DVR from Sony (as seen above.) It doesn't look like the Where to Get BBC iPlayer page has been updated with all the new devices yet, but it should be sooner rather than later, although we're still wondering when the Xbox 360 will join the crowd.

BBC expands iPlayer support on TiVo, Popcorn Hour and Freeview HD devices originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Echostar Europe launches HDS-600RS SlingLoaded FreeSat+ DVR

Richard Lawler — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 21:21:00 EST

It's been a surprisingly long wait for a SlingLoaded box outside of the Dish ViP922, but now European customers can do the all-in-one DVR/Slingbox dance with the new HDS-600RS. As a set-top box it can tune into 150 or more digital channels and VOD depending on provider with its own HD EPG and includes access to BBC iPlayer with plans for access to more services like ITV Net Player in the future, and of course it can Sling TV, live or DVRed on the unit's 500GB hard drive. One unfortunate limitation was revealed during a quick hands-on session by Pocket-Lint, if you're Slinging video somewhere else, despite the box having two tuners, it will only display the same thing the remote user is watching on the TV. Otherwise, they believe the box will cost around £300, although all EchoStar has officially confirmed is that it will launch April 1st, with preorders available on Amazon starting March 23rd. Check out the press release after the break and a few more pictures in the gallery below.

Gallery: EchoStar HDS-600RS

Continue reading Echostar Europe launches HDS-600RS SlingLoaded FreeSat+ DVR

Echostar Europe launches HDS-600RS SlingLoaded FreeSat+ DVR originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 21:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC iPlayer will cost 'fewer than $10' a month for international subscribers

Vlad Savov — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:31:00 EST

As you know, the BBC's iPlayer online video catchup portal is about to strap its boots on and go international via the iPad some time this year, a subscription service which has now been priced at "fewer than $10" per month. That's the word direct from Mark Thompson, director general of the grand old corporation, who also assures us that the global launch is definitely coming in 2011. iPad and Android apps for the iPlayer were recently launched in the BBC's homeland, so the technical requirements have already been fulfilled -- now it's probably just a matter of dotting some Is, crossing some Ts, and making sure Jeremy Clarkson doesn't score you a lawsuit with his outspoken bravado.

[Thanks, Nathan]

BBC iPlayer will cost 'fewer than $10' a month for international subscribers originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC iPlayer app coming to Android as well as iPad by the end of this week (update: iPad version live)

Vlad Savov — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 04:59:00 EST

The British Broadcasting Corporation has made its iPlayer app plans that extra bit more official by announcing that iPad- and Android-specific versions of its software will be arriving by the end of this week. The iPlayer is a free TV catchup service hosting the best and most popular (those two being almost mutually exclusive categories) from the BBC's catalog of recent programming, and the new native apps promise to bring that to your portable device in a touchscreen-optimized format with a "simple and intuitive design." The finishing touches are being applied right now and the apps should be with us before the week is through, but the real cause for excitement is that the BBC plans to take the iPlayer out for an international walk, which will likely rely on such platform-specific apps for distribution and the collection of subscription fees. Then we can all watch Question Time together, yay!

P.S. - Take note, Android users, that you'll need to have Froyo and Flash Player 10.1 installed on your phone or tablet in order to partake in the new app. Sort of a one step forward, one step back maneuver.

[Thanks, Jules]

Update: The iPad app is now ready to download in the App Store. Thanks, Tom!

BBC iPlayer app coming to Android as well as iPad by the end of this week (update: iPad version live) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 04:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC iPlayer app landing on UK iPads this Thursday, US in June

Vlad Savov — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 20:48:00 EST

A BBC Interactive Operations Engineer has British hearts all aflutter tonight with a tweet announcing that the iPlayer app for the iPad is ready to roll out this Thursday, February 10th. It's specific to the tablet for now, so no iPhone, and will only debut in the UK, so no BBC America for you just yet, though this is the first step toward making that cozy dream a reality. Taking the BBC TV catchup service into international waters will be done on the basis of a paid subscription model, which should dissuade all the TV License payers in the UK from revolting, but do bear in mind that this upcoming tablet app will only allow content streaming over WiFi. You'll be able to browse the iPlayer over 3G, we're told, but will need to hook up to some roomier wireless pipes to sip the sweet nectar of BBC Entertainment on your iPad (in app form, browser-based options are a whole other matter). Stay tuned for the fully detailed announcement in a couple of days.

BBC iPlayer app landing on UK iPads this Thursday, US in June originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 20:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Advent Vega's Flash Player yanked due to missing Adobe certification

Darren Murph — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 17:46:00 EST

The Advent Vega was never the most polished Android tablet in the world -- after all, we had to rely on a custom ROM just to get native Android Market access -- but a reasonable price tag and NVIDIA's Tegra 2 has still made it hard to resist. For those who've managed to snag one already, you may have noticed that the Flash playback isn't exactly... awesome. That's probably because the version loaded onto already-shipped versions isn't certified by Adobe, and in order to fend off future complaints, the company's yanking Flash Player entirely from newly-shipping models for the time being. The certification process is apparently underway, and the outfit expects Vega tablets shipped "in the early part of 2011" to have a green-lit build pre-installed; as for everyone else, they'll be provided a gratis update as soon as it can be pushed out onto the interwebs. Head on past the break for the full statement.

Continue reading Advent Vega's Flash Player yanked due to missing Adobe certification

Advent Vega's Flash Player yanked due to missing Adobe certification originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC iPlayer to start international rollout with subscription service on iPad

Vlad Savov — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 03:39:00 EST

BBC.com managing director Luke Bradley-Jones has dropped some knowledge on the TV-loving world by revealing that the iPlayer's global launch will be on a "pure paid subscription model," which will be followed by partnerships with advertisers on "free" sections of the British TV catchup service. The US is specifically named as one of the first new markets for the venture that is expected to go live in the middle of next year. In addition to knowing you'll have to shell out to get your fix of Top Gear, Doctor Who and, erm, The Foods that Make Billions, you'll also want to be aware that the first platform for the iPlayer outside the UK will be none other than Apple's iPad. What is it with Brits and the iPad?

BBC iPlayer to start international rollout with subscription service on iPad originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 03:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC iPlayer going international next year, will be either fee- or ad-supported

Vlad Savov — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 08:11:00 EST

The BBC's iPlayer video-on-demand service has been an unqualified success since its rollout back in 2007 and now it's taking the next logical step in expanding its reach: it's going global. Such is the word from John Smith, the generically named head of BBC Worldwide, who sees the international market for British shows as "under-exploited" and wants to see the iPlayer opened up beyond the Queen's home isles. Of course, since continental Europeans and North Americans aren't subject to the same backbreaking TV license fee, there'll be a new commercial element to the service, though the Beeb's bigwigs have yet to figure out if that means users will have to pay a levy or put up with some ads. Either way, we've got quite a few eager iPlayer viewers on our own staff, so we imagine whenever and however the switch does get flipped, it'll be welcomed by all.

BBC iPlayer going international next year, will be either fee- or ad-supported originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 08:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Loewe shows off new Connect LEDs, wallets cringe

Ben Bowers — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 03:23:00 EST

Ultra high-end German television maker Loewe revealed at IFA that its 32-inch and 42-inch Connect LED line will be refreshed with 200Hz edge LED backlit panels and improved MediaNet connectivity. Specifically MediaNet has been revamped to feature a new LAN interface for streaming local video or audio content on the TV's integrated DVR as well as from DLNA compatible devices and online sources. A so-called "Follow Me" feature is another handy addition that allows users to easily transfer a program in progress from TV to another display for completion -- which should prove useful to shipping magnates who prefer passing out to Titanic in bed after starting in the jacuzzi. Trusted Reviews also reports that Loewe, along with Sharp and Philips, is promoting web-based services built on CE-HTML that are optimized for TV displays, and even demoed a version of the BBC's iPlayer using the technology behind closed doors. Style-wise, the luxury set will ship in three colors along with a choice of stand and a 2.1 speaker setup when it hits the UK this November. Official pricing however is still unknown, but don't expect to find it at Asda.

Gallery: Loewe ConnectLED TV

Filed under: Displays, LCD

Loewe shows off new Connect LEDs, wallets cringe originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 03:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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3view launches first hybrid Digital/IPTV HD DVR with DVB-T2 tuners

Ben Bowers — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 04:39:00 EST

Considering our frustrations with the closed nature of most DVRs stateside, now that 3view has started shipping pre-orders of its first £299 [$472] Hybrid Digital / IPTV HD DVR set- top box, we're certainly jealous. That's because for starters, it performs all of the basic functions of a 500GB HD DVR and provides viewers with access to 50+ TV channels, as well as all free OTA HD channels, thanks to partner MaxLinear's dual MxL5007T DVB-T2 broadcast tuners. There's also integrated support for YouTube and IPTV sources like BBC's iPlayer, with Sky Player slated to join the mix soon. If that wasn't enough to make you pity your recorder, UK owners can even view digital media content via the box's HDD, external USB storage, or DLNA networks, and easily rub in their gleeful media freedom via Twitter or Facebook. No, it may not be fair, but it seems remembering that we don't have to pay a license fee just to get basic national news is the only cheap shot worth clinging to for solace in this situation.

Continue reading 3view launches first hybrid Digital/IPTV HD DVR with DVB-T2 tuners

3view launches first hybrid Digital/IPTV HD DVR with DVB-T2 tuners originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 04:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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International HD news roundup

Richard Lawler — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:58:00 EST

Here at Engadget HD, we'd prefer not to just focus on high-def happenings in the US of A. Thus, we round up the best of the best from the international front each week and present it here, bundled together in a single, easy to digest list. If something went down in your corner of the globe over the past seven days, let the rest of the world know it in comments. 'Til next week, Sahha!

Read - Viewers demand 1080i from ARD and ZDF (Germany)
Read - SCI FI HD to be beamed up to Virgin TV viewers
Read - Discovery Rolls TLC Into Norway
Read - RRsat to Distribute the First High Definition Indian `Bollywood' Movie Channel
Read - Fox Sports brings you high-definition NRL coverage every day of the week
Read - Discovery Networks launches high definition channel (India)
Read - Microsoft Launches MSN Video Player In UK
Read - Microsoft rolls out video-on-demand service across the UK
Read - Sharp preps Freeview HD set-top kit (UK)
Read - Sky Extends High Definition Leadership with HD Channel Milestone, adds ITV1 HD, Hallmark Channel HD, Sky sports HD (UK)
Read - Movietime Launches in High Definition (Canada)
Read - MAX to telecast IPL matches in HD (India)
Read - BBC iPlayer lands on Humax Foxsat Freesat boxes
Read - TV Globo Brings HDTV to Rural Brazil
Read - PBS and Melita share 2010 FIFA World Cup TV rights (Malta)
Read - Film4 HD to Launch on Virgin Media (UK)

International HD news roundup originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TiVo returning to the UK thanks to partnership with Virgin Media

Vlad Savov — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:01:00 EST

It looks like TiVo's freshly minted Premiere hardware will soon be setting sail eastwards as The Daily Telegraph is reporting Virgin Media's next generation set-top box will be built around it. Loyal readers of Engadget HD will already be aware that TiVo and Virgin hooked up last November and this latest news relates to the first hardware to be spawned from that relationship. According to TiVo CEO Tom Rogers, the Premiere will "heavily inspire the development work" going into Virgin's next TV appendage, which may or may not mean that the cable company will simply rebadge the well-received new boxes. What's assured though is much greater integration with online content, with search linking you out to Amazon, BBC's iPlayer, YouTube or good old standard broadcast channels. The whole thing's about unlimited choice, apparently, and should be showing up on the Queen's isles by the end of this year. We can wait, but we'd rather we didn't have to.

TiVo returning to the UK thanks to partnership with Virgin Media originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Samsung's U.K. show reveals Monsters vs. Aliens 3D Blu-ray due in March plus LoveFilm, iPlayer TV apps

Richard Lawler — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:36:00 EST

When Avatar will make its Blu-ray 3D debut is still officially up in the air, but thanks to Samsung's European line show, TechRadar says we can expect Monsters vs. Aliens in March (at least in the U.K.) It will initially be available only to purchasers of new Samsung 3D HDTVs (called the U7000, U8000 or U9000 series of LCDs and PDP7000 plasmas over there) or Blu-ray players, an interesting choice that has us wondering when wider 3D releases will hit, or if we'll need to wait for the summer's PS3 firmware update before that happens. Still, that wasn't all Samsung had to say, also mentioning plans to add movie rentals from LoveFilm and access to BBC's iPlayer to its Apps service for U.K. buyers in April.

[Thanks, @JoeCise]

Samsung's U.K. show reveals Monsters vs. Aliens 3D Blu-ray due in March plus LoveFilm, iPlayer TV apps originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Netgear intros EVA9100 media streamer, DGN2200M WiFi / WWAN modem and more at CES

Darren Murph — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST

Some crazy stuff is going down in Vegas -- fancy that, right? Netgear is doing its darnedest to make its own scene with the introduction of three new items here at CES, so we won't waste any time in breaking 'em down. Up first is the now-available $249 Digital Entertainer Express (EVA9100), which incorporates the media prowess found in the EVA9150 in order to give users instant access to "Blu-ray quality digital video up to 1080p, MP3s and high-resolution digital photos from PCs, Macs or NAS devices." Portals to YouTube, Flickr and RSS feeds will be readily available, and the free trial of PlayOn will provide access to Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Video On Demand, BBC iPlayer and CBS.

Next, we've got the $179.99 DGN2200M wireless router (available in April), which actually pulls double duty as an 802.11n-enabled DSL modem and a WWAN modem. Hailed as the only wireless-N product on the retail market with dual WAN capabilities, this one can get users online via a 3G or 4G USB dongle whenever they leave their home broadband connection. Finally, the $159 Powerline 200 AV+ Adapter (XAV2501) -- which will ship early next month -- enables homeowners to create a 10/100 Ethernet connection from any ordinary electrical outlet that already supports a powerline network. This one's also a HomePlug AV-certified device, so it should have no issues pushing through data at up to 200Mbps. We'll be scouring the show floor for a little hands-on action, so stay tuned!

Gallery: Netgear intros EVA9100 media streamer, DGN2200M WiFi / WWAN modem and more at CES

Continue reading Netgear intros EVA9100 media streamer, DGN2200M WiFi / WWAN modem and more at CES

Netgear intros EVA9100 media streamer, DGN2200M WiFi / WWAN modem and more at CES originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC's iPlayer streams to Cello iViewer HDTVs, those iElsewhere get iNothing

Tim Stevens — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST

Hopefully you haven't exceeded your daily allowance of the letter 'i' yet this morning; this post could push you into CamelCase overload. British electronics maker Cello has announced iViewer, a line of LCD HTDVs available in £399 ($650) 26- and £499 ($815) 32-inch models that will directly stream BBC's iPlayer, no silly gaming console or set-top box required. They'll also stream a variety of other digital channels, including YouTube and American CNN -- so why is it that Americans still can't stream content from the Beeb? Sets will be selling soon exclusively at Marks and Spencer stores, and would have been available months ago if not for a delay thanks to an unidentified but apparently American chip maker. Sure, blame the US. Everything's our fault.

BBC's iPlayer streams to Cello iViewer HDTVs, those iElsewhere get iNothing originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC redoubles its Wii efforts with dedicated iPlayer channel

Donald Melanson — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 07:17:00 EST

The BBC's iPlayer streaming video / radio service has been available on the Wii in the form of a browser-based app for some time now, but it looks like it's now set to step up its game considerably with a full-fledged iPlayer Wii channel. Launching in the UK on November 18th, the new channel boasts a streamlined, Wii-friendly interface that was apparently the result of extensive testing, and includes a number of other smaller design touches, like some nifty background animations during radio programs, and some use of the Wiimote's rumble feature for added feedback. Best of all, the whole thing's completely free -- now, about that UK-only part...

[Thanks, Lenny]

Filed under: Gaming, Home Entertainment

BBC redoubles its Wii efforts with dedicated iPlayer channel originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 07:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iPlayer HD content on HDTVs through Virgin Media

Richard Lawler — Fri, 01 May 2009 12:39:00 EST

Right on the heels of BBC launching iPlayer HD, now UK residents can watch the same content directly on their HDMI-connected telly on Virgin Media's V+ service. Check one off the list, now we're just waiting for iPlayer HD on Macs, PS3 and what else?

Filed under: Cable, BBC HD

iPlayer HD content on HDTVs through Virgin Media originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 May 2009 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iPlayer HD now available

Richard Lawler — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:57:00 EST

Missed the Dr. Who holiday special? It, and other BBC programmes will be available as previously rumoured in high definition via BBC's iPlayer, now featuring new adaptive bitrate technology plus a new BBC iPlayer Desktop and a cross platform download manager for access under Windows, OS X and Linux. The only bad news? All that HD doesn't seem to extend to set-top boxes or the PS3 just yet, you'll have to try it out for yourself under boxee to find out if that works.

Filed under: Internet, New content

iPlayer HD now available originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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iPlayer HD on the way

Richard Lawler — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 23:25:00 EST

The BBC had big plans for its iPlayer immediately upon launch in 2007, and it may be ready for a resolution bump up to HD as soon as April. Director of BBC Vision Jana Bennett revealed that an HD edition is on the way during a panel discussion at the FT Digital Media and Broadcasting Conference. Of course, UK ISPs are apparently already unhappy with the squeeze iPlayer puts on their bandwidth, and HD will only make things worse. We don't know if a ZillionTV style deal is the answer, but here's hoping it gets by the bandwidth caps somehow.

Filed under: Media streamers, Internet

iPlayer HD on the way originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 23:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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boxee announces widened availability, iPlayer / Joost support

Darren Murph — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST

boxee has come a long way from its humble beginnings, and you knew it wouldn't just show up in Vegas without a little something new to share. In fact, a lot to share. Unless our memories are far worse than we imagine, this is the most substantial update on the media software since its inception. After receiving 200,000 sign-ups for its private beta, boxee has announced that it's opening its alpha to all Mac, Ubuntu and Apple TV users. Better still, the Windows flavor is sliding into private beta, and for UK users, they'll certainly appreciate the addition of proper BBC iPlayer support. Additionally, Joost support was added along with MTV Music, and a few new keyboard shortcuts were thrown in for good measure. Finally, a whole slew of bug fixes are included in the public alpha, so we're really wondering why you're still here and not downloading. Hmm? Full release is after the break.

Continue reading boxee announces widened availability, iPlayer / Joost support

Filed under: Misc, Media streamers, Apple

boxee announces widened availability, iPlayer / Joost support originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sky admits that HD Sky Player is coming, just not yet

Darren Murph — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 11:01:00 EST

Sky's web-based Player is a fine tool for catching Premiership football and the like, but the omission of HD is a sad one. With tons of other online video portals out there making the jump to high-def, there doesn't seem to be a valid excuse for Sky to wait hesitantly on the sidelines. According to Director of OnDemand Griff Parry, HD streaming channels via the internet "are coming," but the current player will remain SD only for the "foreseeable future." When asked why that was, he proclaimed that Sky couldn't "deliver it reliably to the majority of people." In other words, it would rather play things safe and deliver a consistent product rather than field the scads of troubleshooting calls from folks unable to remedy dropped frames. Sigh -- another opportunity pushed aside for the sake of convenience.

Filed under: Industry, Internet

Sky admits that HD Sky Player is coming, just not yet originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Dec 2008 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC criticizes Sony, Microsoft's approach to streaming video on consoles

Richard Lawler — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 07:04:00 EST

Why does the hardly-home-theater styled Wii have BBC's iPlayer, and not the much more media player-focused Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3? A note from a BBC employees blog details the troubles of getting things set up with Sony and Microsoft (although with a little tweaking, a PS3 owner has already set up PS3iPlayer.com to give the console iPlayer access) officially, since "they want control of the look, the feel and the experience". Sure BBC's iPlayer is Flash-based (and not the good 1080p Flash either) but their issues could indicate how difficult it will be for other interested parties like Netflix to gain access to the walled garden.

[Via Joystiq]

Filed under: Media streamers, Internet, BBC HD

BBC criticizes Sony, Microsoft's approach to streaming video on consoles originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Apr 2008 07:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC iPlayer comes to iPhone, not as interesting as originally thought

Chris Ziegler — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 11:28:00 EST

After a groundswell of hype that the rumored BBC iPlayer for the iPhone might be some crazy, Apple co-developed, SDK-usin' piece of kit, the reality is just a little underwhelming. Fact is, yes, the BBC-only streaming app has migrated to the iPhone -- but it's built entirely on the handset's existing technology stack, prior to the SDK announcement. Ah well, it's probably just as well considering that the content available on the beta-quality player is limited at the moment, and let's be honest: they're gonna need 3G to really rock, anyway.

[Via TUAW]

Filed under: Multimedia, Apple

BBC iPlayer comes to iPhone, not as interesting as originally thought originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Mar 2008 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC thinking of bringing iPlayer to revamped Apple TV?

Darren Murph — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:01:00 EST

Yeah, the BBC seems to be quite the indecisive bunch, but according to a recent blog posting by Ashley Highfield (Director, BBC Future Media And Technology), its iPlayer may actually see face time on Apple's revised Apple TV platform. Quite frankly, details are far too thin to actually make anything of this just yet, but he does note that the "effective relaunch of the AppleTV... coupled with its (long anticipated) move to a rental model, means that we can look to getting BBC iPlayer onto this platform too, as we should be able to use the rental functionality to allow our programs to be downloaded, free, but retained for a time window, and then erased, as our rights-holders currently insist." The post goes on to touch on a number of IP to TV-related topics, but not once does it mention actually being in talks with Cupertino to make this happen. Guess it's wait-and-see from here, eh?

[Via Electronista]

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Portable Video

BBC thinking of bringing iPlayer to revamped Apple TV? originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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FairUse4WM strips BBC's iPlayer DRM?

Nilay Patel — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 21:20:00 EST

We haven't had a chance to play with BBC's nifty new iPlayer online video service yet, but we're hearing that FairUse4WM strips the files of their DRM -- anyone try it out yet? Let us know in comments!

[Thanks, Chris]

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Portable Video

FairUse4WM strips BBC's iPlayer DRM? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Jul 2007 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC launches iPlayer online video service

Darren Murph — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 15:02:00 EST

Nah, it's not quite ready for your iPhone (or OS X at all, to be frank), but the BBC iPlayer has officially launched. The online TV service will go head-to-head with rivals 4OD and ITV, and according to director general Mark Thompson, the launch of iPlayer "is as big a milestone as the arrival of color TV." All exaggeration aside, the service will allow viewers to "download a selection of programs from the last seven days and watch them for up to 30 days afterwards," and of course, all files are not only laced in DRM, but will automatically delete themselves after they are viewed or after 30 days have passed. Currently, a fixed number of people will be able to sign up, with the numbers increasing throughout the year, and while it only operates in Britain on Windows XP systems using IE 6 or later, the BBC's Ashley Highfield has stated that hopes are for the iPlayer to "become a universal service available not just over the internet, but also on cable and other TV platforms, and eventually on mobiles and smart handheld devices."

[Via BBC]

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Portable Video

BBC launches iPlayer online video service originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Jul 2007 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BBC's iPlayer to work on iPhone?

Darren Murph — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 04:52:00 EST

Just as agreements between Apple and O2 have evidently been inked, it seems that the BBC may be ready to introduce the first big iPhone app in the not too distant future. A recent promotional video for the forthcoming iPlayer -- a software client that allows users to download and view episodes or entire series of BBC television programming on their devices -- actually shows an interface working on an iPhone. The application was originally designed to work on PCs (and Macs, eventually), but the surprisingly lengthy demonstration (seen after the jump) on Apple's handset certainly makes you wonder what's in store.

[Thanks, Chris S.]

Continue reading BBC's iPlayer to work on iPhone?

Filed under: Multimedia, Peripherals, Software, Apple, iPhone OS

BBC's iPlayer to work on iPhone? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 04:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Evesham releases iplayer IPTV set-top box

Erik Hanson — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 02:21:00 EST

UK firm Evesham has released the iplayer high-definition media center for £299 (584 USD), which can tune in over the air HD signals as well as download podcasts, IPTV, and pay-per-view Top Up content from the internet. The 80GB hard drive provides PVR functionality with recording and playback for timeshifting your media, and Media Player Connect for streaming to any PCs on the network. It also upscales any standard-def content up to 1080i using the built-in HDMI port. The iplayer includes the usual audio and video media viewers, as well as an email client and web browser which you can use via the included remote or a USB keyboard. The Inquirer thinks that it's a capable alternative to Sky for viewing both Freeview TV and media online and offline, at just a bit of a price premium.

[Via The Inquirer]

Filed under: HDTV, Media PCs

Evesham releases iplayer IPTV set-top box originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Dec 2006 02:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Evesham releases iplayer IPTV set-top box

Erik Hanson — Tue, 19 Dec 2006 02:21:00 EST

Filed under: Media streamers, Set-top boxes, Internet, OTA

Evesham releases iplayer IPTV set-top box originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Dec 2006 02:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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