MediaMall
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MediaMall's PlayLater brings DVR to internet video
Aching to ditch your cable box, but can't bear to let go of that sweet, commercial-skipping DVR? If the folks behind PlayOn get their way, you won't have to. MediaMall launched the beta for PlayLater this week, a service it's calling "the world's first DVR for online video." The idea of a DVR for the internet sounds a little wonky at first, but it is an accurate description of the program's facilities -- pick a network (Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, etc.), a show, and an episode, and PlayLater downloads your selection to your computer's hard drive for belated enjoyment. Simple? Sure, but not without a catch -- anything PlayLater pulls down it wraps in a neat layer of DRM, locking that content to the PC that downloaded it. Time-shifting Hulu will set you back $5 a month, but beta testers (the first 5,000, at least) can score a free month just for trying it out. Hit the break for a press release and additional details.
PlayOn wants you to PayOn, jumping into Premium price class on May 15
This world needs a better class of network streamer, and PlayOn wants to give it to you. In exchange for more greenbacks, of course. The media server software -- known for bringing Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, and a bunch of other online video repositories to networked devices within the home -- is making the move up in price class from its current one-off $20 fee to a $39.99 upfront charge followed by annual recurring payments of $19.99. How does MediaMall justify such a splurge? It'll be offering a new Comedy Central channel, along with NHL, TV.com and PBS content in an ongoing effort to expand its library of media sources. If the extra choice doesn't sound like the kind of thing you'd want to pony up two Hamiltons for every year, you've got until the 15th to grab the Basic version, which will continue to be supported without further fees, but won't be available to new subscribers after that cutoff date. So, better get decidin' soon.
PlayOn for Wii beta to be announced tomorrow
We know that some of you streaming media fanatics have been indulging in this one for the better part of a month already, but just in case: tomorrow the kids at MediaMall officially announce the beta release of PlayOn for Wii. The software license runs $39.99, but there is a 14-day free trial -- so you can see for yourself whether or not it makes sense to tie up your console with re-runs of CSI: Miami when you could be better off shakin' your groove thing to Dance Dance Revolution: Hottest Party. Hit the read link and decide for yourself. [Via New York Times]
PlayOn media server now serving Wii customers (in beta, anyway)
We knew good and well that the fine folks over at MediaMall were toiling away in an attempt to bring internet TV content from YouTube, Hulu, Netflix, CBS, CNN and a host of other sources to Nintendo's white-hot Wii, but there's just nothing like hearing that intentions have become reality. Based on an email from MediaMall support to a particularly curious user, the "latest version of PlayOn includes a beta version of Wii functionality in it." Naturally, the company's doing its darnedest to keep this under wraps for now, but we're eager to get legions of Wii users testing it out and reporting back with performance evaluations. The note does mention that quality will be lower than on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 due to the inherit hardware limitations on Nintendo's baby, but hey, you knew that going in, right? Hop on past the break for the letter in its entirety, which includes instructions on getting this going on your console.[Thanks, Anonymous]
PlayOn media server adds local media browsing to go with Hulu & Netflix, goes on sale for half price
In a rather timely update considering recent events, MediaMall's pumping up its latest additions to the PlayOn media streaming software. In addition to access to Netflix, Hulu (still working) and other streaming video (new ones being added through plugins) on your PS3, Xbox 360 or other DLNA-compatible device, it's finally beta testing the long requested ability to stream locally stored music, movies and photos as well. Better yet, even if you've tried the software before and found it wanting, the trials have been reset so you have 14 days to give it another shot and, until June 31 can be purchased for half price at just $19.99 with coupon code PLAYON1999.
First unofficial PlayOn media server plugin caught in action
Taking advantage of the latest update to the PlayOn media server software, this YouTube video claims to capture the first unofficial plugin which enables users to easily browse GameTrailers.com trailers on their TV. Greater functionality should make the $39.99 fresh-out-of-beta pricetag a little easier to swallow, seeing GameTrailers (and its overcompressed "HD" videos) listed on a PlayStation 3 menu next to ESPN, Hulu, Revision3 and other supported services may not be incredibly impressive off the bat but it does bode well for the future of this DLNA streaming package.[Thanks, Jackson]
PlayOn media server upgraded with Amazon VOD & plugin beta
Just in time to ease worries that your Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 or other DLNA-capable device was falling behind the Roku video player in video capability, MediaMall has updated its PlayOn software for Amazon Video On Demand access. Version 2.59.3352 went out earlier today and also enables a beta version of its plugin system, that should allow interested providers to put their feeds into the PlayOn browser starting right now with Revision3. What's next? ABC.com on the content side and the Nintendo Wii on the hardware end. Of course, we could've just mentioned the (still working) Hulu to your TV access which is at least enough reason to give it a trial run.
PlayOn Media Server streams Netflix to PS3 / Xbox 360 today
Forget the lames waiting for a New Xbox Experience to bring Netflix streaming to the console, the latest edition of Media Mall's PlayOn Media Server beta includes Watch Instantly support right now. An update notification should be on the way to anyone already testing things out, the impatient can grab it from the website. Also streaming Hulu, CBS, YouTube, ESPN and others to the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, HP MediaSmart TV or other DLNA hardware (Nintendo Wii's still on the coming-soon list) the presence of Netflix (and the recent Watch Instantly additions) gives even more reason to check it out. Since its still in beta don't be surprised to find a few issues, but considering our smooth sailing so far, the list of reservations over its $30 price tag (after the 60 day free trial period is over) is rapidly shrinking.
