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[RealNetworks to refund $2 million, 'guilt' box stays un-ticked]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/realnetworks-sued-must-refund-2-million/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/realnetworks-sued-must-refund-2-million/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/realnetworks-sued-must-refund-2-million/#comments realnetworks-sued-must-refund-2-million

Paid for subscriptions from RealNetworks you didn't ask for a few years ago? You may be eligible for a refund. Washington State's Attorney General sued the company over a free trial of its Rhapsody music service, which had a pre-ticked box for additional content that went unnoticed by many who signed up. When clients stopped the trial without also canceling the extra options, charges often accumulated in the hundreds of dollars before being seen. While admitting no wrongdoing, RealNetworks agreed to discontinue the boxes, comply with federal laws and give refunds to any customers who signed up that way between January 2007 and December 2009. If that might be you, expect a postcard from RealNetworks or check their website to apply for a refund. Hopefully you'll be less, um, ticked.

RealNetworks to refund $2 million, 'guilt' box stays un-ticked originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 May 2012 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free trialfree trialsFreeTrialFreeTrialslawsuitrealnetwork free trialsRealnetworkFreeTrialsRealNetworksRealNetworks Increalnetworks rhapsodyRealnetworksIncRealnetworksRhapsodyrhapsodysettlementsettlementswashington stateWashingtonStateFri, 25 May 2012 08:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched On: And smartplayers for all]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/13/and-smartplayers-for-all/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/13/and-smartplayers-for-all/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/13/and-smartplayers-for-all/#comments Each week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.

Image

A few weeks ago, Switched On noted the challenges that even wildly popular, highly penetrated devices such as MP3 players and portable GPS devices have faced in the era of the converged device. Some of these devices, such as digital cameras, still hold on because of genuine advantages such as better image quality or optical zoom. For others devices, though, such as MP3 players and portable GPS devices, the grim news is that one of the main reasons consumers use them is to save smartphone battery life.

Continue reading Switched On: And smartplayers for all

Switched On: And smartplayers for all originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 13 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backup batteryBackupBatterycolumngalaxy playerGalaxyPlayeripadiphoneipodipod batteryIpodBatterymp3offline navigationOfflineNavigationrhapsodyslackersmartplayerSwitched OnswitchedontuneinSun, 13 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod owners notified of RealNetworks-related lawsuit's class action status, given chance to cash in (updated: not Real)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/ipod-owners-notified-of-realnetworks-lawsuit-class-action/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/ipod-owners-notified-of-realnetworks-lawsuit-class-action/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/ipod-owners-notified-of-realnetworks-lawsuit-class-action/#comments iPod nano thumbs up

Remember the 2005 lawsuit over Apple's effort to keep RealNetworks' Harmony DRM off of the iPod, calling the countermeasures an abuse that locked customers into Apple's FairPlay copy protection and the iTunes Store? You're forgiven if you don't -- the complaint was filed in 2005. Even with iTunes having gone primarily DRM-free over three years ago, though, owners of iPods bought between September 12th, 2006 and March 31st, 2009 are just now getting notices that they qualify for a slice of any damages if they register and Rhapsody's former owner the class action group wins in court. Of course, there's no guarantee that RealNetworks former Rhapsody users will win and get you music money to feed your iPod, iPod classic, iPod nano or iPod touch, but unless you're planning to sue Apple yourself, there's no penalty for a legitimate claim.

Update: RealNetworks has chipped in to let us know that it's "not involved in any way" with the lawsuit, which is actually an independent complaint centered around the Rhapsody users themselves. RealNetworks hasn't embroiled itself in a legal fight with Apple to date.

iPod owners notified of RealNetworks-related lawsuit's class action status, given chance to cash in (updated: not Real) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 May 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antitrustantitrust lawsuitAntitrustLawsuitAppleaudioclass actionclass action lawsuitClassActionClassActionLawsuitcopy protectionCopyProtectionDRMDRM-freefairplayFairPlay DRMFairplayDrmharmonyharmony drmHarmonyDrmiPodipod classicipod nanoipod touchIpodClassicIpodNanoIpodTouchiTunesitunes music storeitunes storeItunesMusicStoreItunesStorelawsuitlawsuitsmusicRealNetworksrhapsodyThu, 10 May 2012 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Paul McCartney: 'You can keep free streaming for the birds and bees, now give me money']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/paul-mccartney-pulls-streamed-music/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/paul-mccartney-pulls-streamed-music/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/paul-mccartney-pulls-streamed-music/#comments Paul McCartney pulls his music from streaming services, money's all he wants
A wise man once told Engadget that streaming and bought music services could live side-by-side like a piano keyboard. It looks like impoverished multi-millionaire Sir Paul McCartney didn't hear that particular song, as he's withdrawn all of his music from streaming service Rhapsody, after doing the same to Spotify some time ago. He's the latest in a long line of impecunious artists including Adele, Coldplay and Tom Waits, who have done the same as they feel they're not getting fair compensation for their labors. It would be cynical to point out that McCartney's move comes just ahead of a live performance that's exclusively streamed on the iTunes music store and Apple TV, so we won't.

Continue reading Paul McCartney: 'You can keep free streaming for the birds and bees, now give me money'

Paul McCartney: 'You can keep free streaming for the birds and bees, now give me money' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdeleAppleApple TVAppleTvBusinessColdplayGeorge wouldnt have done thatGeorgeWouldntHaveDoneThatHeather MillsHeatherMillsiPadiPodiTunesLicensingLicensing FeesLicensingFeesPaul McCartneyPaulMccartneyRhapsodyRoyaltyRoyalty PaymentsRoyaltyPaymentsSir Paul McCartneySirPaulMccartneySpotifyThe BeatlesTheBeatlesTom WaitsTomWaitsWingsWed, 08 Feb 2012 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody music streaming lands on Android tablets with 'magazine-style' app]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/rhapsody-music-streaming-lands-on-android-tablets-with-magazine/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/rhapsody-music-streaming-lands-on-android-tablets-with-magazine/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/03/rhapsody-music-streaming-lands-on-android-tablets-with-magazine/#comments
If you use Rhapsody to satisfy your $10-per-month musical appetite, then here's another way to digest. The service can now be accessed through an app tailored to Android slates, featuring music discovery tools like expert playlists and guides, original editorial content, and exclusive recordings -- all on top of a 14 million song catalog. You'll need Honeycomb or ICS plus a minimum nine-inch display to run it though, so all you HTC Flyer, Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus and other 'handy pad' owners will have to stick to the phone version. More details in the PR after the break.

Continue reading Rhapsody music streaming lands on Android tablets with 'magazine-style' app

Rhapsody music streaming lands on Android tablets with 'magazine-style' app originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAndroid MarketAndroid tabletAndroidMarketAndroidTabletappaudioGoogleGoogle AndroidGoogleAndroidHoneycombICSmagazineminipostmusicmusic appmusic servicemusic streamingmusic streaming serviceMusicAppMusicServiceMusicStreamingMusicStreamingServiceRhapsodystreamingstreaming serviceStreamingServiceFri, 03 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody officially acquires Napster International, eyes European launch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/26/rhapsody-officially-acquires-napster-international-eyes-europea/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/26/rhapsody-officially-acquires-napster-international-eyes-europea/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/26/rhapsody-officially-acquires-napster-international-eyes-europea/#comments
After having already acquired Napster here in the US, Rhapsody has taken its expansion one step further, with the acquisition of Napster International. Under the deal, announced today, Rhapsody will continue to offer Napster-branded services across the UK and Germany, as promised, and will eventually migrate Napster subscribers to its own infrastructure in March, with existing personal libraries remaining intact (Napster is already live in the UK, but has yet to make its official German launch). The move will also bring changes to Napster users' mobile apps and web clients, with Rhapsody promising improved offline playback and enhanced library management tools "in the coming months." For more details, check out the full PR after the break.

Continue reading Rhapsody officially acquires Napster International, eyes European launch

Rhapsody officially acquires Napster International, eyes European launch originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionappbusinesseuropeGermanyindustryinternetlibrarymobile appMobileAppmoneymusicmusic streamingMusicStreamingnapsterplaybackrhapsodyservicestreamingUKwebThu, 26 Jan 2012 10:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody soars past a million paying customers, president Jon Irwin shaves his head in celebration]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/rhapsody-soars-past-a-million-paying-customers-president-jon-ir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/rhapsody-soars-past-a-million-paying-customers-president-jon-ir/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/22/rhapsody-soars-past-a-million-paying-customers-president-jon-ir/#comments Whatever Spotify can do, Rhapsody can do better? Not quite, but it's getting there. While the former cruised past 2.5 million paying customers last month, Rhapsody has just announced that it has "gone platinum." It's now serving a cool million paying subscribers, right on the heels of its ten-year anniversary. The company's delivering around ten million songs per day, while making itself available on over 60 devices. What's next? Well, president Jon Irwin has to grow his locks back (seriously!), and we're guessing it'll try to lock down a few more carrier partnerships as the months drag on. When pinged for comment, Billy Corgan said: "I'm on vacation."

Continue reading Rhapsody soars past a million paying customers, president Jon Irwin shaves his head in celebration

Rhapsody soars past a million paying customers, president Jon Irwin shaves his head in celebration originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobusinessindustrymusicRhapsodystreamstreamingstreaming audiostreaming musicStreamingAudioStreamingMusicThu, 22 Dec 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Napster name will live on to irritate Lars Ulrich another day in UK, Germany]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/napster-name-will-live-on-to-irritate-lars-ulrich-another-day-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/napster-name-will-live-on-to-irritate-lars-ulrich-another-day-in/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/napster-name-will-live-on-to-irritate-lars-ulrich-another-day-in/#comments Those who declared the death of Napster have apparently underestimated the survival skills of the plucky headphone-wearing feline. The piracy-enabler-turned-legit-streaming-service will continue to live on under that moniker in the UK and Germany, in spite of its being swallowed up by the Rhapsody name here in the States, according to the company.

Napster name will live on to irritate Lars Ulrich another day in UK, Germany originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionminipostmusicmusic streamingmusic streaming serviceMusicStreamingMusicStreamingServicenapsterpiracyrhapsodystreamingMon, 05 Dec 2011 19:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Napster uses up another one of its lives, now fully merged with Rhapsody]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/napster-uses-up-another-one-of-its-lives-now-fully-merged-with/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/napster-uses-up-another-one-of-its-lives-now-fully-merged-with/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/napster-uses-up-another-one-of-its-lives-now-fully-merged-with/#comments
The last dozen years have been quite the roller coaster ride for the Napster crew. The service, which became synonymous with music piracy not all that long after its launch in 1999, made more than its share of high profile enemies, ranging from the RIAA to Metallica. It would soon shut its doors for a first time, thanks to a number of legal challengers. Napster was later reborn as a legit music streaming service, but the beginning of the end for that incarnation was marked earlier this year when Rhapsody, one of the company's chief competitors, announced plans to acquire the service. Yesterday marked the end of the road for Napster again -- the service now fully merged with Rhapsody. Why not pay your respects by breaking out some of the mislabeled, decade-old MP3s that are no doubt lurking on an unused hard drive in the back of your closet?

Continue reading Napster uses up another one of its lives, now fully merged with Rhapsody

Napster uses up another one of its lives, now fully merged with Rhapsody originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aquisitionmergermusicmusic streamingMusicStreamingnapsterpiracyrhapsodyFri, 02 Dec 2011 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook, Twitter, Netflix and 'several thousand' more apps set to hit Kindle Fire next week]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/facebook-twitter-netflix-and-several-thousand-more-apps-set/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/facebook-twitter-netflix-and-several-thousand-more-apps-set/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/09/facebook-twitter-netflix-and-several-thousand-more-apps-set/#comments Sure there's little doubt that Kindle Fire will offer up Amazon's top-tier reading features when hits next week, but let's be honest, this is a tablet we're talking about here -- we want to hear about the apps. The budget slate will also play host to "several thousand" other Android apps next week, according to Amazon, including some top-tier names like Facebook, Netflix, Pandora, Rhapsody, Twitter, Comixology, plus popular games like Fruit Ninja and Doodle Jump. The $199 slate starts shipping November 15th. Press release after the break.

Continue reading Facebook, Twitter, Netflix and 'several thousand' more apps set to hit Kindle Fire next week

Facebook, Twitter, Netflix and 'several thousand' more apps set to hit Kindle Fire next week originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 09:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoncomicscomixolodoodle jumpDoodleJumpe booke bookse readere readerse-booke-bookse-readere-readersfacebookfruit ninjaFruitNinjakindlekindle fireKindleFirenetflixpandorarhapsodytwitterWed, 09 Nov 2011 09:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget: best streaming music solution?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/ask-engadget-best-streaming-music-solution/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/ask-engadget-best-streaming-music-solution/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/29/ask-engadget-best-streaming-music-solution/#comments We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Katie, who is totally down with the stream. The radio stream. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com.

"Rdio, Spotify, Pandora, Rhapsody -- there are way too many streaming music services out there begging for my money. Which is the one I should spring for? I live in the US, but would love for whatever I choose to work when I travel internationally, if that's possible. Trying to keep it up under $10 per month, and looking for a large library and nice mobile compatibility. Thanks!"

So, streamers -- what's your go-to service? Tried a few of 'em? Let us know which you prefer, and why, down in comments below.

Ask Engadget: best streaming music solution? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askAsk EngadgetAskEngadgetaudioitunesmusicnapsterpandorardiorhapsodyspotifystreamstreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicsubscriptionzunezune passZunePassSat, 29 Oct 2011 22:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody announces plans to acquire Napster]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/rhapsody-announces-plans-to-acquire-napster/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/rhapsody-announces-plans-to-acquire-napster/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/03/rhapsody-announces-plans-to-acquire-napster/#comments Details are fairly light at the moment, but Rhapsody has just announced that it plans to acquire Napster, and that the deal is expected to be complete as soon as the end of November. In a statement, Rhapsody president Jon Irwin said that the deal "will further extend Rhapsody's lead over our competitors in the growing on-demand music market," and that "this is a 'go big or go home' business, so our focus is on sustainably growing the company." According to Rhapsody, the company will acquire Napster's subscribers and "certain other assets" under the agreement, and Best Buy (Napster's current owner) will receive a minority stake in the company. Press release is after the break.

Continue reading Rhapsody announces plans to acquire Napster

Rhapsody announces plans to acquire Napster originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionbest buyBestBuybreaking newsdealmusicmusic serviceMusicServicenapsterrhapsodystreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicMon, 03 Oct 2011 13:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook partners up to bring music, news and videos to your profile through Open Graph (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/facebook-partners-up-to-bring-music-and-videos-to-your-profile-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/facebook-partners-up-to-bring-music-and-videos-to-your-profile-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/22/facebook-partners-up-to-bring-music-and-videos-to-your-profile-t/#comments Facebook's f8 developer conference is going on today, and Andy Samberg Mark Zuckerberg has just revealed another part of his master plan for the social network. Open Graph will now integrate many of your favorite news and music services, including Spotify, Rhapsody, Rdio and MOG onto your Facebook page with custom apps, and will also bring video from Vevo, Netflix, Hulu and many more. The media platform's already up and running, so you can see (and hear) the results of Mark's labor right now.

Update: Unfortunately for Facebook users in the US, Netflix has confirmed that its Facebook integration will only be available in Canada and Latin America initially, due to a US law that "creates some confusion over our ability to allow U.S. members to share what they watch." That doesn't apply to the music services, however, and you can get an idea how Spotify will work in the video after the break. Even TiVo's gotten in on the action, announcing new sharing buttons for its iPhone and iPad mobile apps, although there's no direct DVR integration mentioned yet.

Continue reading Facebook partners up to bring music, news and videos to your profile through Open Graph (video)

Facebook partners up to bring music, news and videos to your profile through Open Graph (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apiappappsblockbusterbreaking newsdirectvf8f8 2011f8 developers conferencef8 developers conference 2011F82011F8DevelopersConferenceF8DevelopersConference2011facebookFacebook PlatformFacebookPlatformflixsterhdpostcrosshuluimdbintonowlikemark zuckerbergMarkZuckerbergmediametacafemisomogmusicnetflixopen graphopen graph apiOpenGraphOpenGraphApipitchforkrdiorhapsodysharingsocialsocial networksocial networkingSocialNetworkSocialNetworkingspotifytivotv.comvevovideoThu, 22 Sep 2011 14:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Rdio's iPad app gets approved by Apple, we go eyes-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/rdios-ipad-app-gets-approved-by-apple-we-go-eyes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/rdios-ipad-app-gets-approved-by-apple-we-go-eyes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/04/rdios-ipad-app-gets-approved-by-apple-we-go-eyes-on/#comments Were you excited to try Spotify, only to be dismayed by the lack of native iPad support? Enter Rdio's latest update to its iOS app, now with gratuitous support for Cupertino's sweetheart. Just like its iPhone and iPod touch forebearer, slate fans can now stream music, cache songs, futz with playlists, all while being "social" with friends on the service. Like the company's other mobile apps (on iOS, Android or Blackberry) -- and its cross-Atlantic Swedish rival -- one has to spring for the pricier $9 monthly sub to unshackle from web-only streaming and enjoy portable bliss. In our quick run-through, we found the app to be slick and fast, and searching for obscure music was painless. With most of our friends strewn across other streaming platforms, the community features fell on deaf ears -- so clearly your mileage will vary. Rdio's offering a week-long trial gratis, so go-on and give it a whirl yourself.

Gallery: Rdio iPad app eyes-on

Rdio's iPad app gets approved by Apple, we go eyes-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 20:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleApple iPadApple iPad 2AppleIpadAppleIpad2hands-oniOSiOS appIosAppiPadiPad 2iPad appIpad2IpadAppmusicmusic servicemusic streamingmusic streaming serviceMusicServiceMusicStreamingMusicStreamingServicerdiorhapsodyspotifysubscription musicsubscription music serviceSubscriptionMusicSubscriptionMusicServiceThu, 04 Aug 2011 20:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Spotify US premium service hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/spotify-us-premium-service-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/spotify-us-premium-service-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/14/spotify-us-premium-service-hands-on/#comments Like The Beach Boys' Smile and Duke Nukem Forever before it, the US version of Spotify has been elevated to a sort of mythological status by collective anticipation. Music nerds and tech geeks all over this fine nation of ours have waited with bated breath for the service to work out all of its licensing kinks and finally make its way to our shores. In an interview earlier this week, a Spotify higher-up promised us that the service will be pretty much the same as the one that Europe has already come to love -- the question, then, is whether or not disappointment is inevitable after so much waiting. Spotify gave us the opportunity to take the premium desktop and mobile versions of the service for a spin. Check out the result below.

Gallery: Hands-on with Spotify desktop

Gallery: Hands-on with Spotify for the iPhone

Continue reading Spotify US premium service hands-on

Spotify US premium service hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfeaturegoogle musicGoogleMusichands-onicloudiosiphoneitunesmobile appsMobileAppsmusic appmusic appsMusicAppMusicAppspremiumrhapsodyspotifySpotify PremiumSpotifyPremiumstreamstreamingThu, 14 Jul 2011 15:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Spotify partners with Virgin Media to stream music to UK TVs, smartphones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/spotify-partners-with-virgin-media-to-stream-music-to-uk-tvs-sm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/spotify-partners-with-virgin-media-to-stream-music-to-uk-tvs-sm/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/spotify-partners-with-virgin-media-to-stream-music-to-uk-tvs-sm/#comments
Spotify, the Rhapsody of Europe, may still be an unfamiliar brand stateside, but the service just inked a deal with Virgin Media to bring streaming music to Virgin's broadband customers, set-top boxes, and mobile phones in the UK. The deal will bundle Unlimited (£4.99) or Premium (£9.99) monthly Spotify tiers, at to-be-determined discounted rates, allowing new and existing subscribers to access millions of tracks from any of their compatible home and mobile devices. Open (free) Spotify customers will reportedly need to upgrade to a paid version, but only to access the service on Virgin's set-top boxes, we presume -- don't expect to see a blanket ban on all devices. Until pricing is announced, the partnership appears to be more of a win for Spotify than for customers, who will still need to pay up before rockin' out, but set-top integration is likely to be a boon with digital TV subscribers, letting them bring those infamous Euro house music raves to an actual house.

Spotify partners with Virgin Media to stream music to UK TVs, smartphones originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiocable tvCableTvdigital tvDigitalTvinternetinternet radioInternetRadiomusicmusic streamingMusicStreamingrhapsodyset-topspottilystreamingtvukvirginvirgin mediavirgin mobileVirginMediaVirginMobileWed, 06 Jul 2011 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Streaming music breakdown: how Google Music and iCloud will impact today's options]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/streaming-music-breakdown-how-will-google-music-and-icloud-impa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/streaming-music-breakdown-how-will-google-music-and-icloud-impa/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/06/streaming-music-breakdown-how-will-google-music-and-icloud-impa/#comments Gone are the days of going to the music store, finding a vintage CD or cassette tape, happily unwrapping it and thoroughly perusing the cover art as you listen to your new album for the very first time. In a want-it-now world, that simply takes too long -- and we have the internet to thank for the change in pace. As preferences seem to shift in the music consumption universe, it feels as if tastes are centered around consuming the largest amount of music possible. And thanks to the sudden proliferation of online streaming services, satisfying those desires in record time has become a reality.

Unsurprisingly, competition is mighty fierce -- consumers have options for user-made radio stations, on-demand streaming content, and cloud-based multimedia. But if you've been hearing the word on the street, Apple and Google could soon make their way onto the scene by offering streaming music options of their own. Almost everything these two tech giants touch turns to gold (emphasis on almost -- we don't think Ping and Buzz built the best reputations), so there's reason to believe that these oft-rumored services will become automatic front-runners the day they're released. Head on past the break to see some of the lucky / unlucky contestants planning to give Google and Apple a run for their (near-limitless) money, replete with a breakdown of what they offer and how hard they hit the wallet.

Continue reading Streaming music breakdown: how Google Music and iCloud will impact today's options

Streaming music breakdown: how Google Music and iCloud will impact today's options originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon cloudamazon cloud playerAmazonCloudAmazonCloudPlayerApplecloudcloud storageCloudStorageeditorialgooglegoogle musicGoogleMusicicloudmogmusicnapsterpandoraradiorhapsodyslackerstreaming musicstreaming radioStreamingMusicStreamingRadioFri, 06 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody won't bow to Apple's subscription policy, issues statement]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/rhapsody-wont-bow-to-apples-subscription-policy-issues-statem/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/rhapsody-wont-bow-to-apples-subscription-policy-issues-statem/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/15/rhapsody-wont-bow-to-apples-subscription-policy-issues-statem/#comments In case you weren't aware, Apple's newly launched App Store subscriptions aren't sitting so well with everybody. While the functionality could of course be a boon to services that have struggled getting paying customers, folks who have already been doing just fine, thank you very much, are balking at the new restrictions Apple has imposed. Rhapsody has issued a statement, which says that it's not going to play ball and even levels a bit of a threat: "We will be collaborating with our market peers in determining an appropriate legal and business response to this latest development." The big trouble stems from the fact that Apple requires anybody offering a subscription service to offer that service for the same price or less through Apple. That means you can still sign up folks through your own methods and get all the cash, but if anybody signs up through your app, Apple gets a 30 percent cut. In addition, Apple is no longer allowing applications to include a link to an external site for purchasing, which means vendors will have trouble getting new users to pay them directly instead of using Apple's simple but heavily-taxed option. Rhapsody claims that it can't offer its services at existing prices with Apple grabbing that much of the revenue, and it sounds like Rhapsody will be leaving the App Store soon if an agreement isn't struck.

Of course, this is just the shiny surface of the dirt Apple's new policies have scuffed up, and we might even have an antitrust case on our hands, according to the Wall Street Journal. Check out the more coverage link for more on that, and follow after the break for Rhapsody's statement in full.

Continue reading Rhapsody won't bow to Apple's subscription policy, issues statement

Rhapsody won't bow to Apple's subscription policy, issues statement originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeappleAppStoreaudioiosiphonemusicmusic serviceMusicServicerhapsodysubscriptionsubscription music serviceSubscriptionMusicServicesubscriptionsTue, 15 Feb 2011 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody on Android now works offline, but still goes online too (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/rhapsody-on-android-now-works-offline-but-still-goes-online-too/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/rhapsody-on-android-now-works-offline-but-still-goes-online-too/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/rhapsody-on-android-now-works-offline-but-still-goes-online-too/#commentsRhapsody on Android now works offline, but still goes online too (video) Rhapsody member on Android? Your life just got a little sweeter. Following up on August's iPhone update and in the footsteps of other downloadable streaming services like Slacker Radio, Rhapsody's Android app now offers playlists that don't turn into pauselists when you go offline. Subscribers paying the $10 per month can now make a list of whatever tracks they want (including full albums of content available on the service) and download those to the phone, where they can be played back even if there isn't even a whiff of network connectivity in the air. Naturally we're guessing the DRM is strong with these tracks and they'll surely only be playable through the Rhapsody app itself, but if you have a long flight ahead and need a bunch of fresh tunes to come along you could certainly do worse.

Continue reading Rhapsody on Android now works offline, but still goes online too (video)

Rhapsody on Android now works offline, but still goes online too (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappdownloadablegoogleofflineoffline playbackOfflinePlaybackrhapsodyvideoMon, 08 Nov 2010 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody for iPhone updated, now takes its music offline (in a good way)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/26/rhapsody-for-iphone-updated-now-takes-its-music-offline-in-a-g/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/26/rhapsody-for-iphone-updated-now-takes-its-music-offline-in-a-g/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/26/rhapsody-for-iphone-updated-now-takes-its-music-offline-in-a-g/#comments We heard back in mid-March that Rhapsody for iPhone was getting an offline mode for downloading music and playing at times of no reception (like most subway rides). Good news, folks, today is the day the app get this coveted update. Lest we forget, too, with this summer's OS 4 release finally enables background music, Real's aural offering just got even more enticing. Press release after the break, or hit up the iTunes link to download now -- don't forget, though, that a monthly subscription plan is still required for playback.

Continue reading Rhapsody for iPhone updated, now takes its music offline (in a good way)

Rhapsody for iPhone updated, now takes its music offline (in a good way) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple iphoneAppleIphoneiphonemusicofflinerealrhapsodyMon, 26 Apr 2010 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody now available to all comers on Android]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/06/rhapsody-now-available-to-all-comers-on-android/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/06/rhapsody-now-available-to-all-comers-on-android/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/06/rhapsody-now-available-to-all-comers-on-android/#comments Following a limited beta, Rhapsody is using the occasion of its newfound independence from RealNetworks to launch the public version of its Android-based client. Technically, this is still a beta that we're dealing with here, so the big difference is that anyone that wants to download and use it is more than welcome to -- it's not the on-the-downlow affair we were dealing with before. Folks new to the all-you-can-eat subscription service are welcome to check out a trial for 7 days, after which point you'll be paying the same $10 a month for access from one device or $15 for access from up to three that everyone else pays -- arguably not bad for a 9 million song library, assuming you've got a taste for anything other than live Fugazi bootlegs.

Rhapsody now available to all comers on Android originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Apr 2010 23:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbetamobilemusicmusic subscriptionMusicSubscriptionrhapsodyTue, 06 Apr 2010 23:06:00 EST<![CDATA[MOG bringing unlimited music streaming to iPhone and Android, Rhapsody taking iPhone music offline]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/16/mog-bringing-unlimited-music-streaming-to-iphone-and-android-rh/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/16/mog-bringing-unlimited-music-streaming-to-iphone-and-android-rh/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/16/mog-bringing-unlimited-music-streaming-to-iphone-and-android-rh/#comments While we all wait patiently for Apple to concoct its own subscription-based, unlimited music streaming service (hello, Lala acquisition!), MOG is jumping on the opportunity right away. Er, almost right away. Down in Austin this week, the company announced that an iPhone and Android app would be out "in early Q2" in order to bring unlimited music streaming to both operating systems for $10 per month. We're told that a catalog of seven million songs will be available, but there's no way to know if 6.99 million are of the "no one cares" variety. At any rate, your monthly fee will also allow unlimited streaming from the desktop, but alas, you'll be left with nothing but hollow memories should you ever stop ponying up. In related news, Rhapsody has announced (video after the break) that offline playback support is coming to the iPhone, with the updated app expected to be passed along for Apple's confirmation "shortly." Granted, the Rhapsody to Go subscription is $5 per month more than MOG's option, but with all this competition popping up, we wouldn't be shocked to see that slide lower in due time.

Continue reading MOG bringing unlimited music streaming to iPhone and Android, Rhapsody taking iPhone music offline

MOG bringing unlimited music streaming to iPhone and Android, Rhapsody taking iPhone music offline originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 13:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>All AccessAllAccessandroidappleaudiodigital downloadsDigitalDownloadsgoogleiphonelalaMOGMOG All AccessMogAllAccessmusicRhapsodyRhapsody to goRhapsodyToGostreamstreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicSXSWSXSW 2010Sxsw2010unlimitedTue, 16 Mar 2010 13:08:00 EST<![CDATA[RealNetworks to spin off Rhapsody, give up control]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/11/realnetworks-to-spin-off-rhapsody-give-up-control/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/11/realnetworks-to-spin-off-rhapsody-give-up-control/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/11/realnetworks-to-spin-off-rhapsody-give-up-control/#commentsSeems like times are tough in the streaming music game -- Warner is making noise about dropping free streaming rights to its catalog, and now RealNetworks and Viacom have announced plans to spin off the Rhapsody subscription service. The new company will obviously be known as Rhapsody, and both Real and Viacom will hold a sub-50 percent stake in the outfit and remain on the board of directors. Real's also contributing $18m in cash to the cause, while Viacom's committed to providing $33m in advertising -- we'll see if Rhapsody can make it on its own once that all runs out.

RealNetworks to spin off Rhapsody, give up control originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mtv networksmtvnMtvNetworksreal networksRealNetworksrhapsodyspin offspinoffsubscription servicesSubscriptionServicesviacomThu, 11 Feb 2010 16:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody's Android app goes live in beta form]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/14/rhapsodys-android-app-goes-live-in-beta-form/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/14/rhapsodys-android-app-goes-live-in-beta-form/http://www.engadget.com/2010/01/14/rhapsodys-android-app-goes-live-in-beta-form/#commentsIt's not being flaunted on Rhapsody's mobile apps page yet, but the music service has quietly started pushing out a beta version of its Android-compatible app that does pretty much exactly what you expect: gives you streaming access to your Rhapsody account from the comfort of your Android handset the same way its existing iPhone version does. Since this isn't an Android Market app -- at least, not yet -- you'll need to enable installation from unknown sources on your phone before hitting the link to grab the APK, but otherwise, it should be smooth sailing. As with any other Rhapsody client, there's a 7-day trial available if you don't have an account, so it's worth a shot -- particularly if you haven't had a chance to score any Ke$ha tracks yet.

Rhapsody's Android app goes live in beta form originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Jan 2010 21:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbetamobilemusicrhapsodystreamingstreaming musicStreamingMusicThu, 14 Jan 2010 21:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody App approved by Apple: 8 million tracks streaming to the ether (update: video!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/10/rhapsody-app-approved-by-apple-8-million-tracks-streaming-to-th/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/10/rhapsody-app-approved-by-apple-8-million-tracks-streaming-to-th/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/10/rhapsody-app-approved-by-apple-8-million-tracks-streaming-to-th/#comments We had a feeling this day was coming. After Spotify's subscription music app was approved, offline listening intact, there was every indication that Rhapsody was next for christening. Especially with the feds watching Apple's every move. The free download just went hot and requires a $15 per month Rhapsody To Go subscription -- you can try it for free for a week -- and streams 64kbps quality (ugh) music over WiFi or cellular data (only, no off-line access) from a catalog of about 8 million tracks offered by the MTV and RealNetwork tie-up. Now go 'n get it.

Update: Added video demo after the break.

[Via Komo News, thanks Bill Y.]

Read -- Rhapsody App [iTunes link]

Continue reading Rhapsody App approved by Apple: 8 million tracks streaming to the ether (update: video!)

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Rhapsody App approved by Apple: 8 million tracks streaming to the ether (update: video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeappleapprovalapprovedAppStoreiphone osiphoneositunesmobilemtvmusicrealnetworksrhapsodystreamingThu, 10 Sep 2009 01:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody App approved by Apple: 8 million tracks streaming to the ether (update: video!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/10/rhapsody-app-approved-by-apple-8-million-tracks-streaming-to-th/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/10/rhapsody-app-approved-by-apple-8-million-tracks-streaming-to-th/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/10/rhapsody-app-approved-by-apple-8-million-tracks-streaming-to-th/#comments We had a feeling this day was coming. After Spotify's subscription music app was approved, offline listening intact, there was every indication that Rhapsody was next for christening. Especially with the feds watching Apple's every move. The free download just went hot and requires a $15 per month Rhapsody To Go subscription -- you can try it for free for a week -- and streams 64kbps quality (ugh) music over WiFi or cellular data (only, no off-line access) from a catalog of about 8 million tracks offered by the MTV and RealNetwork tie-up. Now go 'n get it.

Update: Added video demo after the break.

[Via Komo News, thanks Bill Y.]

Read -- Rhapsody App [iTunes link]

Continue reading Rhapsody App approved by Apple: 8 million tracks streaming to the ether (update: video!)

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Rhapsody App approved by Apple: 8 million tracks streaming to the ether (update: video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeappleapprovalapprovedAppStoreitunesmtvmusicrealnetworksrhapsodystreamingThu, 10 Sep 2009 01:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Entelligence: Stream on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/04/entelligence-stream-on/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/04/entelligence-stream-on/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/04/entelligence-stream-on/#commentsEntelligence is a column by technology strategist and author Michael Gartenberg, a man whose desire for a delicious cup of coffee and a quality New York bagel is dwarfed only by his passion for tech. In these articles, he'll explore where our industry is and where it's going -- on both micro and macro levels -- with the unique wit and insight only he can provide.
With the introduction of the iTunes Music Store, Apple brought the business model of buying music online to the masses at 99 cents a song. iTunes changed the dynamic of the music business: consumers re-discovered the single and no longer had to buy a whole CD to get the one song they might want. It's a model that's worked well: I've bought a lot of music from the folks in Cupertino over the years, and so has everyone else: Apple's one of the largest music retailers in the industry.

Having said that, Apple's model isn't the only one out there. Microsoft, Real, Napster and others have all tried to push the subscription model that allows users to consume as much music as they wish from a catalog of millions of songs for a monthly fee. Some services, such as Microsoft's Zune Pass, also allow users to keep a certain number of songs each month in unprotected format. Although subscription services will likely continue to need be protected by some sort of DRM I don't really have an issue with that. Technology like DRM should be used to create new business models, not protect old ones.

Continue reading Entelligence: Stream on

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Entelligence: Stream on originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Sep 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecolumncolumnsentelligencefeaturedfeaturesmicrosoftnapsterportable audioportableaudiorealrhapsodyspotifystreamingsubscriptionsubscription musicSubscriptionMusiczuneFri, 04 Sep 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody brings subscription music to the iPhone, pending Apple's approval]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/24/rhapsody-brings-subscription-music-to-the-iphone-pending-apple/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/24/rhapsody-brings-subscription-music-to-the-iphone-pending-apple/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/24/rhapsody-brings-subscription-music-to-the-iphone-pending-apple/#comments
If the maniacs at RealNetworks have their way, you'll soon be rockin' out to Rhapsody on your iPhone or iPod touch, streaming all those pop tunes you crave over WiFi, Edge, or 3G, courtesy of your $15 Rhapsody ToGo account -- pending approval from Apple, of course. Sure, we can't imagine the company allowing Pandora but dissing Rhapsody, but stranger things have happened. If this isn't enough to get subscription music fans spinning in their office chairs, the company is also working diligently on Rhapsody for other mobile platforms and carrier app stores, including Google Android. And there's more! Check out the app in all its glory -- on video, no less -- after the break.

[Via PC World]

Continue reading Rhapsody brings subscription music to the iPhone, pending Apple's approval

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Rhapsody brings subscription music to the iPhone, pending Apple's approval originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeappleAppStoreatandtattiphoneiphone osiphoneosipod touchIpodTouchmobilerealnetworksrhapsodystreamstreaming musicStreamingMusicsubscriptionsubscription musicSubscriptionMusicMon, 24 Aug 2009 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody brings subscription music to the iPhone, pending Apple's approval]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/24/rhapsody-brings-subscription-music-to-the-iphone-pending-apple/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/24/rhapsody-brings-subscription-music-to-the-iphone-pending-apple/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/24/rhapsody-brings-subscription-music-to-the-iphone-pending-apple/#comments
If the maniacs at RealNetworks have their way, you'll soon be rockin' out to Rhapsody on your iPhone or iPod touch, streaming all those pop tunes you crave over WiFi, Edge, or 3G, courtesy of your $15 Rhapsody ToGo account -- pending approval from Apple, of course. Sure, we can't imagine the company allowing Pandora but dissing Rhapsody, but stranger things have happened. If this isn't enough to get subscription music fans spinning in their office chairs, the company is also working diligently on Rhapsody for other mobile platforms and carrier app stores, including Google Android. And there's more! Check out the app in all its glory -- on video, no less -- after the break.

[Via PC World]

Continue reading Rhapsody brings subscription music to the iPhone, pending Apple's approval

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Rhapsody brings subscription music to the iPhone, pending Apple's approval originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeappleAppStoreiphoneipod touchIpodTouchportable audioportableaudiorealnetworksrhapsodystreamstreaming musicStreamingMusicsubscriptionsubscription musicSubscriptionMusicMon, 24 Aug 2009 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Creative Sound Blaster Wireless 'for iTunes' works with other software too]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/22/creative-sound-blaster-wireless-for-itunes-works-with-other-so/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/22/creative-sound-blaster-wireless-for-itunes-works-with-other-so/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/22/creative-sound-blaster-wireless-for-itunes-works-with-other-so/#comments
You've known how to wirelessly connect the music on your computer with your massive hi-fi speakers since about the dawn of the caveman, but that doesn't mean Creative won't try to make it seem revolutionary. The company has this week announced immediate availability of its Sound Blaster Wireless for iTunes, which essentially functions as a wireless adapter for any pair of regular old speakeroonies. The name is a marketing-inspired misnomer as the device will work with all manner of software, including Windows Media Player, Napster, Rhapsody, LastFM and even YouTube. The relative straightforwardness of this unit is appealing, though we're skeptical about Creative's claims of zero signal drop-offs, given that transmissions are done via the already crowded 2.4GHz wireless frequency. If you just have to hear it for yourself, entry fee is $149.99.

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Creative Sound Blaster Wireless 'for iTunes' works with other software too originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CreativeiTunesLastFMmusicNapsterRhapsodySound Blaster WirelessSoundBlasterSoundBlasterWirelessstreamstreaming musicStreamingMusicWindows Media PlayerWindowsMediaPlayerwireless musicwireless streamingWirelessMusicWirelessStreamingYouTubeWed, 22 Jul 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[VIZIO Internet App HDTVs launch later this year, for less than you might expect]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/vizio-internet-app-hdtvs-launch-later-this-year-for-less-than-y/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/vizio-internet-app-hdtvs-launch-later-this-year-for-less-than-y/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/vizio-internet-app-hdtvs-launch-later-this-year-for-less-than-y/#comments
Sure VIZIO only just showed off new updates in its high end XVT series, but it's already planning the next generation of LCDs with VIZIO Internet Apps included. Packing widget functionality, 802.11n wireless networking and slider QWERTY Bluetooth remote, the SV422XVT, SV472XVT and VF552XVT Connected HDTVs are coming home in November, October and December, respectively. Already on deck to serve up content for your widgets are Vudu, Revision3, Facebook, Twitter, Rhapsody, Blockbuster OnDemand, Showtime, Flickr and more. The biggest surprise? There's apparently no price premium planned for these features, with the 55-inch clocking in at the same $2,199 price as the model it's replacing, though the 47-inch jumps $200 over the previous edition to $1,699, while adding the local dimming LED backlit technology previously reserved for the 55-inch. The 42-inch will be the first and cheapest available at $1,199 (sans LED) -- we'll see if that bar is low enough to get viewers to jump into the internet-connected display future.

Read - VIZIO Announces High Performance XVT HDTV Line Up with 240Hz SPS(TM), TruLED(TM) and Smart Dimming(TM) Technology, VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA), and Slim Line(TM) 120Hz LCD HDTV Models
Read - VIZIO Unveils Rhapsody Digital Music Service for VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA(TM)) Connected HDTVs
Read - VIZIO Reveals Dynamic New Content Partners for VIZIO Internet Apps Connected HDTV Feature

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VIZIO Internet App HDTVs launch later this year, for less than you might expect originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11nbluetoothconnected hdtvConnectedHdtvfacebookhdtvlcdledled backlitLedBacklitlocal dimmingLocalDimmingqwertyrhapsodysv422xvtsv472xvttwittervf552xvtviziovizio internet appsVizioInternetAppsvuduwidgetsTue, 23 Jun 2009 16:43:00 EST<![CDATA[VIZIO Internet App HDTVs launch later this year, for less than you might expect]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/vizio-internet-app-hdtvs-launch-later-this-year-for-less-than-y/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/vizio-internet-app-hdtvs-launch-later-this-year-for-less-than-y/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/vizio-internet-app-hdtvs-launch-later-this-year-for-less-than-y/#comments
Sure VIZIO only just showed off new updates in its high end XVT series, but it's already planning the next generation of LCDs with VIZIO Internet Apps included. Packing widget functionality, 802.11n wireless networking and slider QWERTY Bluetooth remote, the SV422XVT, SV472XVT and VF552XVT Connected HDTVs are coming home in November, October and December, respectively. Already on deck to serve up content for your widgets are Vudu, Revision3, Facebook, Twitter, Rhapsody, Blockbuster OnDemand, Showtime, Flickr and more. The biggest surprise? There's apparently no price premium planned for these features, with the 55-inch clocking in at the same $2,199 price as the model it's replacing, though the 47-inch jumps $200 over the previous edition to $1,699, while adding the local dimming LED backlit technology previously reserved for the 55-inch. The 42-inch will be the first and cheapest available at $1,199 -- we'll see if that bar is low enough to get viewers to jump into the internet-connected display future.

Read - VIZIO Announces High Performance XVT HDTV Line Up with 240Hz SPS(TM), TruLED(TM) and Smart Dimming(TM) Technology, VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA), and Slim Line(TM) 120Hz LCD HDTV Models
Read - VIZIO Unveils Rhapsody Digital Music Service for VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA(TM)) Connected HDTVs
Read - VIZIO Reveals Dynamic New Content Partners for VIZIO Internet Apps Connected HDTV Feature

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VIZIO Internet App HDTVs launch later this year, for less than you might expect originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>802.11nbluetoothconnected hdtvConnectedHdtvfacebookhdinternetlcdledled backlitLedBacklitlocal dimmingLocalDimmingothersqwertyrhapsodysv422xvtsv472xvttwittervf552xvtviziovizio internet appsVizioInternetAppswidgetsTue, 23 Jun 2009 16:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Moxi's spring updates brings PlayOn, DLNA and a little home automation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/moxis-spring-updates-brings-playon-dlna-and-a-little-home-auto/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/moxis-spring-updates-brings-playon-dlna-and-a-little-home-auto/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/moxis-spring-updates-brings-playon-dlna-and-a-little-home-auto/#commentsMoxi PlayOn Support
In Digeo's latest move into the consumer DVR market it is rolling out first big update since the launch only a few months ago. The list of additions is pretty nice, but our most anticipated feature, the Moxi-mate, is still just "coming soon." Although all the new features are interesting, the most notable is the DLNA certification which allows your Moxi to play all kinds of media from your PC, including from a PlayOn server. What's even better is that Digeo is actually throwing in the PlayOn software -- famous for its Hulu and Netflix support -- for free with the update, which $40 normally. The other new Moxi features users will have access to within the next few days is an expansion of Moxi Net outside its walled garden, as well as a few new home automation tricks that'll let you take advantage of Z-Wave lights and various IP cameras -- also configured via Moxi Net. Believe it or not though, there is actually more, but rather than go on and on covering the Flickr improvements and Rhapsody support, we'll just provide the entire release after the break.

Gallery: Moxi's spring update

Continue reading Moxi's spring updates brings PlayOn, DLNA and a little home automation

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Moxi's spring updates brings PlayOn, DLNA and a little home automation originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DigeoDLNAeControlhdtvHuluMoxiPlayOnrhapsodyThu, 09 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Moxi's spring updates brings PlayOn, DLNA and a little home automation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/moxis-spring-updates-brings-playon-dlna-and-a-little-home-auto/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/moxis-spring-updates-brings-playon-dlna-and-a-little-home-auto/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/moxis-spring-updates-brings-playon-dlna-and-a-little-home-auto/#commentsMoxi PlayOn Support
In Digeo's latest move into the consumer DVR market it is rolling out first big update since the launch only a few months ago. The list of additions is pretty nice, but our most anticipated feature, the Moxi-mate, is still just "coming soon." Although all the new features are interesting, the most notable is the DLNA certification which allows your Moxi to play all kinds of media from your PC, including from a PlayOn server. What's even better is that Digeo is actually throwing in the PlayOn software -- famous for its Hulu and Netflix support -- for free with the update, which $40 normally. The other new Moxi features users will have access to within the next few days is an expansion of Moxi Net outside its walled garden, as well as a few new home automation tricks that'll let you take advantage of Z-Wave lights and various IP cameras -- also configured via Moxi Net. Believe it or not though, there is actually more, but rather than go on and on covering the Flickr improvements and Rhapsody support, we'll just provide the entire release after the break.

Gallery: Moxi's spring update

Continue reading Moxi's spring updates brings PlayOn, DLNA and a little home automation

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Moxi's spring updates brings PlayOn, DLNA and a little home automation originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cableDigeoDLNAeControlhdHuluMoxiPlayOnrhapsodyThu, 09 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ibiza Rumble prototype hands-on: a touchscreen PMP with Rhapsody, webkit browser]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/11/ibiza-rumble-prototype-hands-on-a-touchscreen-pmp-with-rhapsody/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/11/ibiza-rumble-prototype-hands-on-a-touchscreen-pmp-with-rhapsody/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/11/ibiza-rumble-prototype-hands-on-a-touchscreen-pmp-with-rhapsody/#comments Behind closed doors at the Haier booth, we got a chance to check out two Ibiza Rhapsody PMP prototypes, codenamed Rumble and Rumble mini. Here's what we know so far: the Rumble's got a 2.8-inch WQVGA capacitive touchscreen, 8GB NAND flash, and a Freescale i.MX37 ARM 11 processor. It also has a Webkit-based browser, but it -- along with most of the operating system and virtual keyboard -- wasn't functional at the moment. There's support for AAC, MP3, and WMA, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H263, H.264, VC-1, and DivX. The Rumble mini trades out touchscreen in favor of an input pad and a smaller 2.2-inch screen. Beyond Rhapsody service, both models will feature integration with Flickr, Audible, and the ever-vague "popular social networking" sites. Battery life for the Rumble is expected to be about 15 hours for audio and 6 for video, while for the mini it's 14 and 4, respectively. It's surprisingly lightweight at the moment, but other than that we really don't have much to say until we can see the interface in action. Both players are on track for a June release for a penny under $150 for the touchscreen and $100 for the mini.

Gallery: Ibiza Rumble prototype hands-on: a touchscreen Rhapsody PMP at CES 2009


Gallery: Ibiza Rumble prototype

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Ibiza Rumble prototype hands-on: a touchscreen PMP with Rhapsody, webkit browser originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2009ces 2009 featuredces 2009 featuresces 2009 hands-onCes2009Ces2009FeaturedCes2009FeaturesCes2009Hands-onfeaturedfeatureshaierhands-onibizaportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideorhapsodyrumbleSun, 11 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Haier's Ibiza Rhapsody Sport plays audio and video, fails to impress]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/04/haiers-ibiza-rhapsody-sport-plays-audio-and-video-fails-to-imp/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/04/haiers-ibiza-rhapsody-sport-plays-audio-and-video-fails-to-imp/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/04/haiers-ibiza-rhapsody-sport-plays-audio-and-video-fails-to-imp/#comments
The ibiza Rhapsody was one of those curious devices that spent so long in development that by the time it saw the light of day, the rest of the world had moved on to bigger and better things. Sure, we liked the device in theory (WiFi, Bluetooth, and support for Rhapsody and AOL Video are all good things), but its Gameboy-esque looks and mere 30GB storage pretty much guaranteed that it would never be a hit. Unfortunately, a quick look at Haier's new, "sportier" PMP doesn't give us much reason to reconsider the device. Aside from a rugged and weather-resistant new look (is "uglified" a word?), all it seems to offer us is diminished storage capacity. But wait -- all you ever wanted was a plastic orange MP3 player? Then it looks like you're in luck -- the 4GB model sells for $179, while the 8GB size will set you back a cool $199.

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Haier's Ibiza Rhapsody Sport plays audio and video, fails to impress originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol videoAolVideohaieribiza rhapsodyIbizaRhapsodyportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideorhapsodyThu, 04 Dec 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TiVo queues up holiday bundles to spread the TiVo HD cheer]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/25/tivo-queues-up-holiday-bundles-to-spread-the-tivo-hd-cheer/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/25/tivo-queues-up-holiday-bundles-to-spread-the-tivo-hd-cheer/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/25/tivo-queues-up-holiday-bundles-to-spread-the-tivo-hd-cheer/#comments
If you were tempted, but held off, on biting into TiVo's Blue Moon special earlier this year, the outfit is out to get your hard-earned dollars again. We've already discussed the merits (and disadvantages) of becoming a TiVo user, but if you're convinced that it's right for you, you might should make your way into Best Buy. TiVo has inked a deal with said retailer to give any HDTV buyer $100 off of a TiVo HD box, not to mention 3 free months of TiVo service, 3 free months of Rhapsody and 3 free movies from Jaman. Sure, it's not the most awesome deal of all time, but it's the perfect way to get your buddy going with a TiVo HD if you were already planning on snagging that new set from BB anyway. Check the official verbiage after the break.

Continue reading TiVo queues up holiday bundles to spread the TiVo HD cheer

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TiVo queues up holiday bundles to spread the TiVo HD cheer originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rhapsody, the digital love-child of Real Networks and MTV, is best known for its DRM'd subscription music service. As such, the globe's population of sheep-white-earbudded, sidewalk zombies have been completely off limits to its charms. Until today. While its DRM'd subscription deals remain in place, Rhapsody is now offering unprotected MP3 downloads via its Rhapsody MP3 store and via partners including Verizon's VCAST over-the-air service and Yahoo. We're talking 5 million DRM-free tracks (generally priced at $0.99 per song, $9.99 per album) from Indies and the four majors. Uniquely, all tracks can be previewed in full before downloading. Rhapsody VP, Neil Smith said, "We're no longer competing with the iPod, we're embracing it." Perhaps, but Rhapsody's planned $50 million marketing assault on iTunes with the help of MTV's TV networks doesn't exactly make them best of friends. We're not DRM-free across the industry yet (in fact, far from it), but things are certainly moving in that direction.

Update: Signup now with the Rhapsody MP3 store and get a $10 credit which can be applied to your first album.

[Via Reuters]

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Rhapsody ditches (some) DRM, selling MP3s with Verizon and Yahoo originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsdrmmobilemp3mtvmultimediarhapsodyvcastverizonverizon wirelessverizonwirelessyahooMon, 30 Jun 2008 01:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody ditches (some) DRM, selling MP3s with Verizon and Yahoo]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/30/rhapsody-ditches-some-drm-now-selling-mp3s-over-verizon-and-y/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/30/rhapsody-ditches-some-drm-now-selling-mp3s-over-verizon-and-y/http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/30/rhapsody-ditches-some-drm-now-selling-mp3s-over-verizon-and-y/#comments
Rhapsody, the digital love-child of Real Networks and MTV, is best known for its DRM'd subscription music service. As such, the globe's population of sheep-white-earbudded, sidewalk zombies have been completely off limits to its charms. Until today. While its DRM'd subscription deals remain in place, Rhapsody is now offering unprotected MP3 downloads via its Rhapsody MP3 store and via partners including Verizon's VCAST over-the-air service and Yahoo. We're talking 5 million DRM-free tracks (generally priced at $0.99 per song, $9.99 per album) from Indies and the four majors. Uniquely, all tracks can be previewed in full before downloading. Rhapsody VP, Neil Smith said, "We're no longer competing with the iPod, we're embracing it." Perhaps, but Rhapsody's planned $50 million marketing assault on iTunes with the help of MTV's TV networks doesn't exactly make them best of friends. We're not DRM-free across the industry yet (in fact, far from it), but things are certainly moving in that direction.

Update: Signup now with the Rhapsody MP3 store and get a $10 credit which can be applied to your first album.

[Via Reuters]

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Rhapsody ditches (some) DRM, selling MP3s with Verizon and Yahoo originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsdrmmp3mtvportable audioportableaudiorhapsodyvcastverizonyahooMon, 30 Jun 2008 01:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Yahoo! Music Unlimited shuttered -- customers feel the Rhapsody]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/04/yahoo-music-unlimited-shuttered-customers-feel-the-rhapsody/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/04/yahoo-music-unlimited-shuttered-customers-feel-the-rhapsody/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/04/yahoo-music-unlimited-shuttered-customers-feel-the-rhapsody/#comments
Yahoo! Music Unlimited (and its customers) is the latest victim of the digital media shakeout. However, unlike the shutdown of Sony's Connect service which left customers stranded with DRM-laden tracks, Yahoo has struck a deal to send its existing subscription customers to the PlaysForSure-friendly Rhapsody music service from RealNetworks. The shift will occur sometime in "the first half" of 2008 and leave Yahoo Music Unlimited's payment plans and music libraries in tact for customers "for a limited time." Eventually, Yahoo's legacy customers will be required to sign up at Rhapsody's relatively higher rates of $12.99 per month (Yahoo charged $8.99 per month or as little as $5.99 per month for a year paid in full). So, do you still think that the subscription model is a good thing? Just wait, the shake-out has only begun.

Update: To be clear, Yahoo Music will continue to offer streaming audio, music videos, web radio and other advertising-supported music offerings while integrating Rhapsody into its online portal. Only the subscription service is being shut down.

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Yahoo! Music Unlimited shuttered -- customers feel the Rhapsody originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 04 Feb 2008 04:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionmergerportable audioportableaudiorealnetworksrhapsodyyahooyahoo musicyahoo music unlimitedYahooMusicYahooMusicUnlimitedMon, 04 Feb 2008 04:12:00 EST