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Google is bringing TV listings to search results
In its quest to bring more valuable information to search, Google will soon add live TV listings to results, allowing you to find out exactly when and what channel your favourite film or TV show is on next. The new module won't just include cable or over-the-air availability, the search giant will also display which apps and websites also host the content you're looking for, whether it's on Google Play, YouTube, iTunes or another streaming service.
You've selected Mad Men? Moviefone redesign tacks on TV listings
Earlier this year, AOL shuttered Moviefone's call-in directory service. The brand lives on though, and today it outed a new look, with a retooled web site and mobile apps in tow. Chief amongst the changes? The addition of TV. Now, episode listings, cast info, curated Watch Lists and other details are baked in alongside a handy list of viewing options -- if you're itching to stream a selection right this second. There's an emphasis on search, too. A query box now appears at the top of every page you'll swipe or click to, and the results now include those Watch Lists -- allowing for theme- or occasion-based title hunting. Moviefone has also ditched its iconic red paint scheme for blue as a part of the UI makeover. What's more, the outfit is looking for a new voice, so if you've ever wanted to follow in Kramer's footsteps, now could be you chance to do so. Perhaps now the only thing left to do is to come up with more accurate name for the service. "Videofone" gets our vote.
Google search starts listing TV episodes and air dates in results
Think of this as IMDb baked into your Google search. Today, everyone's favorite Search giant from Mountain View announced that users seeking information about their favorite shows, or those just curious about specific series, will now find detailed episode listings within their results. The added information pings up the full season's worth of episodes along with their respective air dates. And clicking on any of those entries will pull up relevant search results -- handy, say, if you're looking for a spoiler-laden recap. That's about as deep as this addition gets, but you won't find us complaining.
BuddyTV Guide app adds Hulu Plus integration
Even when you're watching TV alone, you've always got a friend in BuddyTV Guide -- the personalized listings and remote control app. Now, in addition to content providers Netflix, iTunes and Amazon, it's inviting another player to the viewing party: Hulu Plus. Subscribers to the service will be able to see all associated video content in the BuddyTV Guide listings, and better yet, access it directly from within the app. Intrigued, Hulu Plus patrons? Head on down to the source link, grab the relevant app and let the New Girl marathon commence.
Logitech's Harmony Link transforms your iOS device or Android phone into a universal remote (video)
Logitech isn't exactly a stranger to universal remotes, and if you've been yearning for an Android or iOS aimed solution from the Swiss company, its new $100 Harmony Link should have you covered. The Link is a WiFi-enabled infrared puck and app combo, that allows you to control up to eight devices in your home theater from the comfort of your touchscreen sans pesky dongles or cases. After downloading a free app, pocket-sized iDevices and Android smartphones can act as universal remotes over your home network, while iPad users also get the benefit of personalized TV listings from Rovi. It's similar in price and function to Peel's Fruit, but drops the extra wireless dongle and adds a native iPad app. Notably, the Link can interface with multiple iPads at once, and Logitech's also thrown in a mini IR blaster to make controlling your AV gear that much easier. If another one of your home theater dreams just came true, the Harmony Link is up for pre-order now from Logitech and due out in October. While you're still here, there's quick video overview past the break along with the usual PR spiel.
TV Guide spins its own Android app
Having already taken on the iPhone last year, TV Guide has turned its attention to Android with a new mobile app developed in cooperation with software house Roundbox. By all accounts, it's your run-of-the-mill TV listing grid, though TV Guide injects some "breaking entertainment news, scoops, episode recaps and daily TV hot lists" just to spice things up a bit. We tried to put it through its paces on a Froyo-equipped Nexus One here but it just kept crashing once we selected our provider, so your mileage may vary. Follow the break for TV Guide's full press release.
HDTV Listings for March 26, 2006
What we're watching: No new Grey's Anatomy? Nooooo. Where will we get our soap operatic exploits of doctors in 720p? Until General Hospital upgrades to HD and ER becomes the show that it was 10 years ago, nowhere would be the appropriate answer. In it's stead we will accept warmed over episodes of CSI (after watching The Evidence, we appreciate this show much more) and Pistons vs. Nets on ESPN. I went to a couple Pistons games this week and after several overpriced beers experienced considerable compression issues and artifacting, real life isn't all it's made out to be.I haven't seen tonight's episode of Rides before, where four teams of designers take a crack at the Chevy HHR, so that will get at least a look as well.Our traditional high-def listings continue below.
