VUDU's streaming service demoed live on an LG TV
We've seen it in the flesh, and we must say VUDU is doing things right with its move to a device-agnostic service. They haven't chucked a single feature, and the interface is rather responsive for a TV-based video service (though not quite as flashy as its PS3 and Xbox 360 counterparts). Even with a bit of crummy hotel internet getting in the way, the device managed to buffer streams of 720p and 1080p content at a fairly rapid rate -- besting a best-case-scenario Netflix buffer time in most cases. It's clear that the 5.1 surround, 1080p-equipped HDX format, which can downgrade its bitrate based on available bandwidth, is really going to eat up your pipes, but the 720p looks quite good even in the face of a somewhat limited connection. While LG and Vizio are the jumping off point for this service, it's VUDU's stated aim to land on pretty much any home theater device that'll have them -- we can't imagine Microsoft or Sony taking very kindly to the offer, but it's hard to argue with this level of HD selection. Video of the service in action is after the break.
