internetvideo
Latest
Vudu finally delivers 1080p HDX movies on Android devices
One of the best features of Vudu's movie service has always been its high quality video, and now you can view it on mobile devices. The latest version of Vudu for Android brings a native interface for the first time that's far easier to use and looks better on screens of all sizes, as well as the ability to play HD (720p) and HDX (1080p) quality streams or downloads. That's a feature that's still not available on iPhones and iPads, but it should work on "select" Lollipop or higher devices (read: capable of high-res video and the accompanying DRM).
Netflix is coming to Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and South Korea
Netflix only just launched in Japan last month (that's the Japan office pictured above), and it's already lining up its next destinations in Asia. In early 2016 the streaming video service is coming to Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore and South Korea, although no exact dates or pricing are specified. It's planning to bring the usual suite of features and even Ultra HD streaming to these countries when it lands, thanks to their existing broadband infrastructure. Where it might go after that (China?) is still unknown, but its plan for global availability by the end of 2016 is apparently still on track. [Image credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images]
Verizon' Go90 streaming video service starts with phones, sharing
After acquiring the remains of Intel's internet TV project last year, Verizon is finally ready to reveal its long-rumored internet video network. Called Go90, the New York Times confirmed it's launching this week, with an eye towards convincing younger folks to turn their phone sideways (Go90...get it? Don't worry, we didn't either) and watch video there, instead of in the 300-channel cable packages they don't want. While Comcast is bringing internet video to its cable boxes and Dish Network tries out Sling TV, Verizon's plan is "mobile-first" from the start. Instead of lining up channels, the "pared down" experience Bloomberg revealed last week includes some prime time TV shows, original internet shows and some live TV, including sports. Available for free, it will have ads, and encourage users to share clips on social media, sporting a "watch cut and share all of the awesome" slogan.
Online video poised to outsell DVD purchases this year
Believe it or not, the surge in online streaming options from Amazon, HBO, Netflix, Hulu and others have yet to outsell DVDs. That'll change this year, though. In a new report from consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers, money spent on video downloads and streaming subscriptions in the States will surpass DVD sales and rentals for the first time in 2015. In terms of hard numbers, online video is set to increase 13 percent and rake in $9.5 billion while physical DVD sales are expected to drop to $7.8 billion. What's more, in 2017, the online sales figures are projected to hit the $12 billion mark, which would surpass the US box office tally for theaters. DVDs are hanging tough thanks in part to services like Redbox and Netflix's disc option, but the format stands to meet the same fate as CDs: Music streaming outsold physical CDs last year, and is poised to overtake digital sales within three years.
YouTube makes sure you know 4K videos are out there
Even though most of us are only just now starting to look at 4K / Ultra HD, YouTube has had support for the high-res video since 2010 (just two years after it started streaming in HD!). With more than four years of experience under its belt the video service has a bigger library of 4K video than you might think, and starting today it's highlighting that with a special label (shown after the break) to point out 4K videos. According to a spokesperson, 4K uploads tripled last year, and searches for 4K video continue to increase. YouTube says that the VP9 codec it showed off last year is helping that video squeeze through connections of all bandwidth sizes, so give those high quality streams a shot.
Target's internet video service you didn't use is shutting down
Following in the tracks of other retailers like Walmart (Vudu) and Best Buy (CinemaNow), Target launched its own video on-demand service in late 2013, but now it's the first of those three to shut things down. Like Redbox Instant and Samsung's Video Hub, Target Ticket didn't quite catch on, as compatibility with Ultraviolet digital copies (that can be viewed using different services, no matter where they were originally purchased) and links to its customer loyalty program weren't enough to hook users. As for movies or TV shows not covered by Ultraviolet, Target says that it's linked up with CinemaNow. When the lights go out on March 7th, customers can either transfer their purchases there, or if the content isn't available, get a credit from the service as detailed here. Of course, that's all theoretical since you probably never bought movies there anyway. [Thanks, Dave Zatz]
N3twork wants to be the Pandora of internet video
The music industry is extremely well-blanketed on the web, what with services like Pandora, iHeartRadio, Spotify, Rhapsody, iTunes Music and many, many more. But one can easily argue that the same can't be said about online videos -- namely, those available at no cost on YouTube, Vimeo, DailyMotion and other similar sites. Here's where N3twork believes it can help. The startup, which describes itself as a "personal network for internet video," has taken a cue from Pandora on how it delivers content to you. The new app, available only on iOS at launch, uses your personal interests to tailor a feed of videos, allowing users to employ swipe gestures to skip (left) or watch later (right) -- think of the latter option as a DVR of sorts.
Vudu for Android now available on (some) phones, not just tablets
Vudu's player for Android launched last year with tablet support, and now a new update lets it work on a limited selection of phones. Newer Samsung handsets, the Nexus 4, HTC One and several other devices round out the list, as the app works for either streaming or downloading movies. It worked without issue on our Nexus 4, however since its UI hasn't changed from the tablet version some of the buttons were smaller than we'd like. Also, we couldn't get the video to play in any res beyond SD so it wasn't the sharpest, but there was a high enough bitrate to make movie-watching enjoyable on the small screen. As usual, the app is free, if you have an account with the VOD / Ultraviolet service hit the Play Store link below to see if works on your hardware of choice.
Redbox Instant app available for Google TV
During CES, Redbox and Verizon mentioned Google TV among the platforms getting an app and now they've delivered. The Redbox Instant app for Google TV is in the Google Play market, however only owners of second gen hardware will be able to make full use of it. As the folks at Google TV Friends found, it can be side loaded on the Logitech Revue for example and even play previews, however it won't rent any movies. At Google I/O Redbox explained to GigaOm that support would be restricted, while showing off a newer version of the app that will be released after the Jelly Bean Google TV update hits and mentioning a Roku version on the way. Redbox's support page explains the lack of support for first generation hardware is because only newer devices have the necessary DRM support, owners of those boxes can install the app from the link below.
Watch ABC app with live TV streaming comes to Kindle Fire, but not Google Play
ABC dipped its toe into live network TV streaming with the Watch ABC app on the web and iOS earlier this month, and now it's followed up with a version for Amazon's Kindle Fire and Kindle Fire HD tablets. Unfortunately, despite the Amazon Appstore listing it's still not in Google Play so other Android devices can't get easy access yet. At launch the press release mentioned Samsung Galaxy hardware will also be supported this summer, but there's no word beyond that. Of course, the same location restrictions still apply no matter what platform, with Watch ABC currently available in NYC and Philadelphia only. Through the end of June anyone in those areas can tune into the live streams, however after that it will require authentication with a participating cable or satellite company. Viewing areas will also start to include into other markets throughout the summer and fall based on ABC's agreements with its affiliates. The Watch strategy has worked well so far for Disney's cable networks (ABC Family is up next), whether its push to bring live network TV to the internet is spurred by Aereo or Nielsen's new ratings, we hope more can watch it soon.
TV Guide redesigns mobile app for Android, catches up with iOS version
Remember how TV Guide relaunched its mobile app for iOS last summer? Well the company's Android app, TV Guide Mobile, is finally catching up with the iOS version thanks to a complete redesign. The app includes TV Guide's popular Watchlist feature, a personalized profile which lets you find different ways to watch shows -- from sources like TV, on-demand, streaming and DVD. TV Guide Mobile automatically links to the HBO GO, Hulu Plus, The CW, MAX GO and Crackle apps, allowing you to access shows instantly. Another new feature, New Tonight Trending, provides a "social hot list" of what others are watching. But wait, there's more! The app gains a heavy dose of social networking integration plus content filtering, curated watchlists (including topics such as celebrities and sports) and original editorial content. Want to try it out? Follow the Play Store link below, then check out the PR after the break.
Netflix's latest original series 'Hemlock Grove' is available for streaming
Netflix's original content assault continues today with the debut of Hemlock Grove, a "supernatural" series directed by Eli Roth. This series takes place in a small Pennsylvania town which has suddenly come down with a bad case of werewolf attacks. Previous releases Lilyhammer and House of Cards chased viewers interested in quirky foreign humor and political drama, respectively, so this series represents a bit of a shift. Later this year, the streaming service will debut Orange is the New Black from Weeds creator Jenji Kohan and the second season of Lilyhammer. Cards is also due for a second season, and sci-fi fans have Sense8 to look forward to in 2014. We'll see if its data-based approach to picking series has found another quality option in Hemlock Grove, however early reviews suggest that may not be the case for all viewers. Hitfix's Alan Sepinwall referred to it as a "streakbuster" between Cards and the upcoming season of Arrested Development, and a New York Times evaluation of the first few eps notes "it barely gets around to telling its story." Of course, it may just be targeted to viewers with different priorities, who will appreciate its style more than they did, and the company's algorithms are just waiting to dig those people out of the crowd. Whatever the case, with Netflix's characteristic all-episodes-at-once release schedule you can power through all 13 episodes and find out for yourself right now.
Warner Archive Instant launches, offers subscription to stream classic movies and TV shows
While existing streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime stock their virtual shelves with fresh exclusive content, the just-launched Warner Archive Instant is running in the other direction. Drawing on a catalog of rare older (although not necessarily that old, there's a few 90s flicks in there) movies and TV shows from Warner's own history as well as other studios like MGM, RKO, and Allied Artists, the service promises a regularly updated bundle of selections for $9.99 per month. Now available to all after a few months in closed beta testing, there's a two week free trial available if you're not sure whether the selection fits your tastes. Not all of the titles are remastered in high definition, but those lucky selections can be streamed to your Roku in up to 1080p resolution (the Silverlight player for PCs and Macs does not support HD at this time). That's currently the only connected TV device supported, although others are said to be on the way. Not sure what to watch? Hit the showcase section for curated playlists of highlight content based on various themes. For fans of classic cinema we can think of few ways to get your fix, although the (relatively) tiny library of a few hundred choices and focus on rare content may leave most mainstream viewers cold.
Roku 3 goes on sale tomorrow for $99 with upgraded CPU and a new UI
Almost two years after its last major set-top box rollout, Roku is ready to introduce its first third generation player. Other than a new curvier design outside the Roku 3's main differences are a more powerful processor inside, the addition of dual band WiFi and a tweaked remote with audio out (headphones included) for private listening. Of course, hardware is only half the story and the new player debuts a reworked interface that will also spread to "current generation" players (read: Roku 2, new HD, LT and Streaming Stick) as an update in April. Roku 3 goes on sale tomorrow through Roku.com and Amazon.com for $99, taking the place of the current top of the line XS model. We'll go more in depth about what's new this time around, including a video preview of the new UI, after the break.%Gallery-180695%
Redbox Instant beta invites slowly start rolling out, iOS and Android apps appear
As promised, the Redbox Instant beta is under way, offering interested customers and employees an early peek at its blend of kiosk rentals and streaming video. With unlimited subscription video and four Blu-ray rentals per month available for just $9 we expect there to be significant interest, if you haven't already signed up for early access on the website we suggest you do so promptly. The service's apps are already available on iTunes and Google Play, although you'll need one of the access codes being doled out to activate them. Hit the source link to get on the list, until then go over the official details and wonder just what might be waiting.
Vudu launches movie streaming / downloads to Android tablets, Xbox 360 app supports 1080p
Coming about a year after its launch on iOS, Walmart-owned Vudu has opened up access to its (UltraViolet-connected) movie library on Android. Interestingly, it's included a key feature not currently available in the iPad and iPhone Vudu Player app: users can download videos for offline viewing just like they do on PCs, not just streaming over WiFi in the browser. A free app ready for download to "select" Android tablets, there's no word on when or if it will appear on phones, but we're told the list of supported devices will continue to grow. Vudu also notes in the press release (included after the break) that as of last month, its Xbox 360 app has been updated to support 1080p HDX streaming video. Do you really need another reason to give it a shot? If so, try this one on -- all new users who activate an UltraViolet account between now and March get 10 free movies. There's still the pain of creating multiple logins for the virtual locker, but between Vudu and Flixster offers you should be able to snag a bunch of free flicks watchable anywhere on your Android device without spending a cent (or hunting through torrents and the like, your choice).
Snag YouTube's redesign early with a quick browser cookie change
After a debut this summer, YouTube's visual refresh hasn't rolled out to all of its users, but the folks at OMG! Chrome! have stumbled upon a way for you to get in on the action a little early. Simply point Chrome or Firefox to YouTube, open up the browser's console, enter a line that'll fiddle with a cookie and you'll be able to cruise Google's video service with its fresh coat of paint. To open up your console in Firefox, just punch Control+Shift+K on Windows or Command+Alt+K on a Mac. For Chrome, hit Control+Shift+J on a PC or Alt+Command+J on machines running OS X. Can't wait to take the new look, which gives Google+ a nod, for a spin? Hit the source link below for the code snippet to get started.
Netflix Watch Instantly is live in Finland, completes Nordic sweep with Norway, Denmark and Sweden
Thanks to a rapid pace of one country per day Netflix has made light work of its Nordic roll out. The internet movie service is launching its final Scandinavian flag today in Finland after starting Monday in Sweden, then notching Denmark and Norway (pictured above) in between. As with the others there's extensive device and app support from the start, and although the content selection may vary Netflix is the exclusive streaming home of Iron Sky, for all your Nazis-on-the-moon viewing needs. Not enough? Hey, there's always HBO Nordic, and you don't even need cable or satellite to get it.
NextGuide iPad app continues its fight against boring grids, adds Amazon, gestures and more
There's more than a few apps (and even DVRs) that promise to help you find something to watch, but one of the more interesting efforts came from Dijit Media's NextGuide app for the iPad. It launched its assault on the old grid-style layout last month, and an update rolling out is adding listings for more content from Amazon VOD and Prime streaming, plus support for new gestures like two finger swipe between show cards, pinch to hide and more. The "Your Picks" algorithms that attempt to figure out what else you may like before you do have been tweaked, and it can also pull up more information about any show or movie with saved searches and Wikipedia bio lookups. Hit iTunes to give the free app a shot, and see if this is a push in the right direction for your TV watching experience.
Toys R Us launches family-friendly internet movie service, plans Tabeo access, HD video and more
Like Amazon, Best Buy and Barnes & Noble before it, Toys R Us is following the path of being a retailer distributing its own branded hardware (Tabeo, Nabi) with an accompanying app store, and then supplementing those offerings with a digital media service. ToysrusMovies.com is a Rovi-powered digital storefront currently available to PCs, Macs and other Flash compatible devices, with an app planned for the Tabeo soon, as well as Blu-ray players, HDTVs and other mobile devices including iOS and Android. The content consists of "more than 4,000" titles from big names like Disney, Fox, NBCUniversal and more, available for 24-hour rental starting at $2.99, and $5.99 for download or streaming. Right out of the gate its scored an early release of Madagascar 3 two weeks before the disc release, currently a $16 purchase with "unlimited" streaming to activated devices, with downloads to up to 5 devices. Now of course, all it needs is some compatible devices, but building an ecosystem is a process, and may be key to separating Toys R Us' offerings from the competition. Check out more details in the press release after the break or at the site.
