Live from CeBIT: Hands-on with the FRITZ! Mini
If like us, you were left well, wanting a bit more information on what exactly the FRITZ! Mini is then check, check, check it. 'Cause we tracked AVM down on the CeBIT floor and went hands-on with a working prototype of the iPod FRITZ! Mini and are happy to report, it is what they say. The Mini (pictured), does not include any storage for MP3s, those are accessed via 802.11g WiFi from either Memory Stick or USB-equipped MP3 player attached to your FRITZ!Box 7170. The FRITZ!Box will also stream music to the Mini from any UPnP device (yes, that could be your PC) on your home network. And those SMS alerts? Well, indeed they do not offer integration with your cellphone handy (as they are called in Germany), rather these are text messages for land-line owners. We also found out that the device is SIP compliant and features 16-bit audio and WPA encryption to keep the evil-doers out. We were also given a demonstration of the Mini as HiFi remote via a prototype FRITZ!Audio box not mentioned in the previous press release. Sweet, and available globally (the Mini anyway) before the end of the year and should "cost less than most SIP handsets" according the product manager we spoke with. Just remember, it's not a standalone device, you'll still need to throw down for the FRITZ!Box. More pics after the break.
Prototype FRITZ!Audio attached to stereo.
Back of prototype FRITZ!Audio box...nothing fancy, but it works.
Another shot of the FRITZ!Mini. Yeah, it feels like an iPod mini too.
