We will be hosting a live blog even for Sony’s CES 2012 press event. Sony looks be going in the direction of connected devices and streaming entertainment with Smart TVs and electronics. There is sure to be some android related stuff as well from their mobile division now fully owned by Sony. We should get more details on the US launch of the PS Vita as well. Bookmark this page here for the live blog event starting at 5 PM PST on Jan 9th.

PDP announces a new fighting stick for the new Mortal Kombat game coming soon. The stick will have custom artwork design and be available in the limited released Mortal Kombat Tournament Edition game.  Tournament gamers will get the change to use the fight stick  in an upcoming tournament between May 14 – 15 in Las Vegas where players will battle for $21,000 in prizes. See the full press release and pictures below.

Press Release:

PERFORMANCE DESIGNED PRODUCTS ANNOUNCES THE MORTAL KOMBAT FIGHT STICK AND THE FIRST NORTH AMERICAN MORTAL KOMBAT TOURNAMENT

PDP Issues The Ultimate Tournament Challenge To Gamers in Las Vegas This May With $21,000 in Prizes At Stake

LOS ANGELES – March 9, 2011 – Performance Designed Products LLC (“PDP”), a worldwide leader in the video game accessory market, today announced that PDP is producing the Mortal Kombat Fight Stick, as well as sponsoring the first ever North American Mortal Kombat tournament. The Mortal Kombat Fight Stick is the ultimate arcade-style joystick controller for the upcoming Mortal Kombat video game, published by Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and developed by NetherRealm Studios. The Mortal Kombat Fight Stick will also be used at the tournament happening in Las Vegas, NV, on May 14 and 15, where the top contestants will battle for $21,000 in prizes.

“Mortal Kombat is one of the most recognizable video game franchises on the planet and has a huge audience of dedicated fans,” said Tom Roberts, Chief Technical Officer, Performance Designed Products. “We’ve created the ultimate joystick for these fans and now we’re bringing them all together to find the top Mortal Kombat player in North America.”

Once Mortal Kombat players have had the chance to practice and familiarize themselves with the absolute control of the PDP Mortal Kombat Fight Stick, they will be able to pit their fighting prowess against one another in the Mortal Kombat tournament. PDP will be bringing together thousands of serious combatants within Bally’s Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, NV where hundreds of matches will be played using the fight stick in front of members of the Mortal Kombat design team. (Participants must be 18 years or older.)

PDP and NetherRealm Studios have collaborated to produce the Mortal Kombat Fight Stick, which features exclusive custom artwork. The Mortal Kombat Fight Stick will only be available as part of the Mortal KombatTournament Edition or for sale in extremely limited numbers on PDP.com. The Mortal Kombat Fight Stick has been designed to reflect the look and feel of the classic Mortal Kombat arcade cabinet and its ergonomic button layout has been updated with additional design and technological touches to create the ideal joystick for serious console players.

The inner workings of the Mortal Kombat Fight Stick are composed of high quality arcade parts from Suzo Happ and are easily accessed without the need of any tools. Inside the joystick base, all parts and wires are protected by a unique plastic shield emblazoned with the Mortal Kombat logo, and there is room to store cables and a copy of the game. The underside of the Mortal Kombat Fight Stick is lined with velvet-wrapped memory foam for the comfort of players who hold the stick on their lap, while rubberized feet at the bottom corners will prevent the stick from sliding when placed on a table or similar surface.

Mortal Kombat, the newest chapter of the award-winning videogame franchise, will be on store shelves starting April 19^th, 2011 for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. It marks a triumphant return to the series’ mature presentation and a reinvention of its classic 2D fighting mechanic. Mortal Kombat will introduce a number of new gameplay features including tag team, a deeper story mode, and nostalgic online and offline arcade battles. Players will be able to choose from an extensive lineup of iconic warriors and challenge their friends in traditional 1 vs. 1 matches as well as several new game modes.

In addition, Mortal Kombat and Mortal Kombat: Annihilation will make their Blu-ray debuts on April 19^th from Warner Home Video.  Mortal Kombat and Mortal Kombat: Annihilation are also available for download through Sony PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, iTunes, Amazon and other online retailers.  The films are also available On Demand from cable and satellite providers.

For more information log onto www.themortalkombat.com and www.facebook.com/mortalkombat.

To order a limited-edition Mortal Kombat Fight Stick, visit http://www.pdp.com

For more information about the game, Mortal Kombat, log onto www.themortalkombat.com and visit www.facebook.com/mortalkombat.

To review the rules and sign up to take part in PDP’s $21,000 Mortal Kombat national tournament in Las Vegas, NV on May 14 and 15, visit http://www.pdp.com/mortalkombat

###

About PDP
Performance Designed Products LLC, a Lynn Tilton company, is an industry leader in designing and manufacturing products for all major video game platforms including the Sony PS2, PS3, PSP, Nintendo DS and Wii, and Microsoft Xbox 360, as well as a line of accessories for the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch. The company has been supplying video game accessories to the U.S. market for more than a decade. PDP sells products under a variety of brands, with sales in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and throughout Europe and Australia & New Zealand. PDP is a trademark, of Performance Designed Products LLC.  © 2011 Performance Designed Products LLC.  For more information on PDP and its products, visit www.pdp.com.

About Patriarch

Patriarch is a vertically-integrated private equity firm with robust in-house operational turn-around expertise. Founded in 2000, Patriarch was built upon a patented financial model designed to manage and monetize the distressed portfolios of financial institutions. Patriarch has since evolved into a global investment firm that concentrates on direct investments in and the transformation of complex businesses, building integrated industry platforms. Patriarch manages funds with over $7 billion of equity and secured loan assets, with equity investments in more than 70 companies and controlling interests in approximately two-thirds of these. For more information, please visit www.patriarchpartners.com.

ABOUT WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT:
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, a division of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Group, is a premier worldwide publisher, developer, licensor and distributor of entertainment content for the interactive space across all current and future platforms, including console, handheld and PC-based gaming for both internal and third party game titles.

Mortal Kombat™ © 2011 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Developed by NetherRealm Studios. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies and are used under license from Microsoft. "PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
Mortal Kombat and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

LG had their new top of the line Blu-Ray player on display the BD690.

LG BD 690 is LG’s flagship player, full HD 1080p 3D-enabled Network Blu-ray Player features LG SmartTV. Loaded with all the apps though SmartTv on the Blu-ray players does not feature web browsing, 250GB hard drive with MusicID^®.  The player is also Wi-Fi capable, has DLNA and can be control via the LG mobile remote app.

Press Release

LG Electronics further expands access to content-on-demand with new Blu-ray Disc Players and Home Theater Systems

Leading the line-up being unveiled this week is LG’s BD690 3D-capable Network Blu-ray Disc player with LG SmartTV and an integrated 250-gigabyte (GB) hard drive, allowing for easy storage and instant playback of music, photos, personal videos and online movies from VUDU™*.

Demonstrating its focus on providing consumers with convenient access to nearly endless content options, six of LG’s 2011 Network Blu-ray Players and home theater systems are 3D capable and incorporate LG SmartTV.  LG SmartTV provides consumers with a simple-to-use interface that allows access to thousands of movies, customizable apps and videos.  For convenient navigation consumers can download a free app for iPhone and Android-based smart phones to control the unit, including a full QWERTY keyboard.

“LG is committed to offering consumers easier access to more content-on-demand, which is reflected in our 2011 line of Blu-ray products with new content partners, advanced technology and unique design,” said Jay Vandenbree, senior vice president, LG Electronics USA. “As the pioneer in providing content-on-demand options for consumers, LG builds on this reputation by offering full product lines designed to help consumers transform their home entertainment experience into something better.”

Consumers also will enjoy that most 2011 Network Blu-ray Players and home theater systems have available Wi-Fi connectivity (built-in or available with purchase of Wi-Fi adapter) that allows consumers flexibility when installing a home entertainment system by connecting directly to any existing 802.11n wireless home network. They also include Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) functionality, which expands entertainment options by enabling easier access to family videos and pictures stored on other DLNA-enabled systems, such as computers, making content options almost limitless.

Also included on many products in the lineup is the MusicID® feature powered by Gracenote®, which allows consumers to play a song from a movie or TV show by simply pressing a button on their remote control.  Gracenote then returns rich information on the song, such as artist and genre, along with album cover art.

Designed to complement the look of today’s HDTVs, LG’s Network Blu-ray Players and home theater systems feature slim, compact designs that allow consumers to easily blend their entire entertainment system into any existing room environment.

Network Blu-ray Disc Players
Leading LG’s 2011 portfolio of Network Blu-ray Disc Players is model BD690 – one of the only 3D-capable Blu-ray Disc player to feature an integrated hard drive, so consumers can consolidate their digital media files in a single device for exceptional high-resolution enjoyment.  Its built-in 250GB hard drive allows consumers to create a Media Library that delivers easy storage and instant playback of music, photos, personal videos and movies purchased from the VUDU service.  Also, digital media that may have been scattered throughout the home on PCs or digital cameras can now be simply imported via the USB or Ethernet port to create a single organized library of personal memories.

To take full advantage of the Blu-ray format, LG’s Network Blu-ray Players also provide convenient access to BD Live, which offers a wide variety of content, such as movie scene extras, new previews and the ability to read synopses and rate movies. Also included are Bonus View features that provide picture-in-picture access to Blu-ray Disc special features, allowing consumers to toggle between their favorite movie scenes and bonus features on the disc. For those with a library full of both standard and Blu-ray titles, LG’s players utilize 1080p up scaling of standard DVDs for a near high definition viewing experience – no matter what format is being played.

At CES Maxell showed us their line of soundbars that come with built in subwoofers to save space and still provide great sound.  Their also compatible via a FM transmitter adapter with an iPod for streaming your music from your iPod or iPhone. Prices range between $199 and $499

Press Release

MAXELL INTRODUCES ACOUSTBAR SOUNDBAR LINEUP

Maxell Acoustabar Lineup Features Built-in Subwoofer for Easy to Achieve Surround Sound from a Single Unit.

Las Vegas, January 6, 2011 – Maxell Corporation of America (www.maxell.com) today announces their expansion within home audio category with the new Acoustabar soundbar lineup. Maxell meets the need for better audio quality to match today’s high definition video with three unique models designed to address a variety of needs.

The Maxell lineup of Acoustabar soundbars feature a unique built-in subwoofer and genuine hardwood enclosures. An easy hook up design and built-in wall mounts for easy installation are additional benefits that make the Maxell Acoustabar an ideal solution.

The opening price point 32-inch Eht model provides live, multi-channel surround sound enjoyment from a single source. This compact sound bar connects to your TV in seconds with a simple, easy hookup design that eliminates any guesswork. The Eht’s all-in-One 10-speaker acoustic system provides embracing multi-channel surround sound. Multiple drive units are equally spaced, which keeps your ears from discerning where the actual sound source is located, allowing for a surround sound experience from a single unit. The Maxell Eht requires minimal space and wiring and offers an easy solution for achieving better sound quality from TV shows, movies and video games – whether you sit up close or farther from the television.

Next in the lineup is the Maxell SD320 model, a 32-inch All-in-One Home Theater Surround Sound Bar System equipped with SRS 3D WOW technology. SRS 3d WOW technology delivers the power of 430 Watts of sound through its 5 drivers and dual sub-woofers. The unit is equipped with a Power Bass Compression Engine to enhance low frequency performance. A built-in iPod™ dock allows you to turn your iPod™ into a room filling surround sound audio system, which is easily controlled with the included remote control. The Maxell SD320 will also charge an iPod™ anytime it is in the dock. The SD320 allows for connectivity with any TV, DVD player and game console. The Maxell SD320 Home Theater Sound Bar System provides a listening experience of movie theater quality in the home.

Rounding out the assortment is the top of the line 32-inch SD-400 All-in-One Home-Theater System equipped with SRS 3D WOW technology. The Maxell SD-400 provides a staggering 520 Watts of power in a single unit. The SD-400 an enhanced virtual sound experience of multiple audio inputs through a two-channel speaker output system. With its built-on iPod dock and connectivity to any TV, DVD player or game console, the Maxell SD-400 offers a premier all-in-one listening experience.

iGUGU  takes aim and jumping into the Internet TV and streaming box market with the iGUGU InternetTV. 

The iGUGU InternetTV is a PC based solution that will allow you to stream content from your PC and the internet right into your TV.  InternetTV also takes a different approach to the user interface which looks a bit more intiutive and easier to learn than maybe some others. The nice thing about InternetTV being PC based is that they are not limited to the content that you can access. Which means you will be able to get content from such places as Hulu and Netflix which is sometimes blocked on other competitors products. The InternetTV UI is customizable to set the boxes to what content you want them to be.  The product goes for $99.

Press Release

iGUGU InterneTV Delivers the World of PC- and Internet-Based Content to the Television
The PC-Based System Fulfills the True Intent of Internet Content Streaming by Giving Users Ability to Search, Access and Watch Most Free and Subscription-Based Content Available on the Internet
LAS VEGAS – Jan. 3, 2010 – iGUGU®, a global manufacturer of innovative entertainment technology products for consumers and business, will demonstrate InterneTV, an easy-to-use, affordable solution that enables consumers to stream the majority of all PC- and Internet-based content to the television, at the 2001 International CES (Central Hall, booth 14043) from Jan. 6-9, 2011.

Unlike most other Internet content streaming solutions, InterneTV is PC-based allowing the solution to stream virtually any content that can be viewed on the computer to a television in the living room or in the home theater using a compact, feature-rich handheld RF remote control. At the core of InterneTV is a powerful software application that aggregates both subscription-based and free content from hundreds of websites, making it easy and intuitive to search, access and view video content.

A content streaming solution is only as good as the type and amount of content that it can actually stream. CES attendees are invited to visit its booth at CES to directly compare iGUGU InterneTV with other leading Internet content streaming solutions. Whereas most other content streaming products limit users to viewing content from specific sources, the PC-based InterneTV solution enables users to view virtually ANY content that can be played on a PC.
According to Isaac Calderon, president of iGUGU, InterneTV has the capability of creating a paradigm shift in the way that consumers receive their video entertainment at home. “As major networks and cable programs make increasing amounts of their content available free-of-charge through the Internet, and many offering original content available only through the Internet, the Internet is positioned to replace broadcast and cable television as the primary source for video entertainment. InterneTV is the bridge that brings all of that Internet-based content back into the living room where consumers are accustomed to viewing their video entertainment.”

News Release

About iGUGU InterneTV
iGUGU InterneTV turns the PC into a powerful entertainment center by enabling users to access and play stored video content from the PC or streaming content from the Internet on a television or home entertainment center. The iGUGU InterneTV system consists of an innovative, compact handheld wireless remote control, wireless or cable-based options to connect the PC to the television, and an easy-to-use, powerful, software application that aggregates free and subscription-based content on the Internet, giving users the ability to search, catalog and play more content than any other solution on the market.

The PC-to-TV interface manages all content between the computer and the television. Connecting the PC to the television is made easy through three connectivity options which include both wired and wireless solutions to deliver video at up to 30 frames per second. iGUGU’s wireless solution provides wireless connectivity between the television and a Wi-Fi enabled PC at a distance of up to 400 feet utilizing an 802.11g-compliant box that provides both VGA and HDMI video outputs and stereo audio output connections. iGUGU Mid Range provides connectivity up to 50 feet through a VGA cable and utilizes a wireless USB which is connected to the PC to communicate with the wireless remote. iGUGU Long Range enables audio and high-definition video to be transmitted up to 330 feet between transmitter/receiver boxes that are connected between the computer and television.
iGUGU InterneTV, which is compatible with Windows, supports 480p and 720p, and delivers resolutions of 640 x 480, 800 x 600, and 1024 x 768.
iGUGU InterneTV will be available in Q1 2011 starting at $99 USD via leading retailers and will be backed by a 12-month warranty and 24/7 technical support.
About iGUGU

iGUGU is a subsidiary of San Diego, Calif., based VNA Group, a conglomerate of companies that include transportation vehicles, fitness equipment, entertainment technology, and consumer products.
The VNA Group delivers to consumers and businesses around the world a diverse array of innovative products and services that enhance and improve the way that people work and play.

iGUGU designs and manufactures innovative entertainment technology solutions that enable consumers to enhance their lifestyles and businesses to take advantage of new revenue streams made possible through the convergence of the Internet and entertainment industries. iGUGU’s business philosophy is simple: to dedicate their talent and technologies to creating superior products and services that contribute to a better global society.

iGUGU is headquartered in San Diego, Calif. For more information, visit the company’s Web site at www.igugu.com.
© 2011 iGUGU. iGUGU, and the iGUGU logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of iGUGU in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.

For more information:
Ken Hagihara
Media Relations Representative
for iGUGU
Integrity Public Relations
(949) 768-4423 x801
ken@integritypr.net
# # #

LG plans to make your TV a bit smarter with the LG SmartTV.

The LG SmartTV Upgrader is a small box that will plug into your TV and will bring you a easy to use menu that is custom built by LG that will give you access to content across all platforms of internet and TV. You will be able to get streaming content from Hulu, Nexflix, Vudu and may other content providers right onto your TV. Check the video for more info.

Press Release

NEW LG SMARTTV UPGRADER MAKES EVERY TV A SMART TV
Combines Web Browser, Premium Content and LG Apps
With a User-Friendly Interface
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 5, 2011 – LG Electronics introduced its new LG SmartTV Upgrader (ST600), an easy solution for transforming any TV into a Smart TV, today at the International Consumer Electronics Show (Booth #8205). The Upgrader gives any television with an HDMI input the ability to access endless amounts of content including movies, sports, television programming, music and premium applications, all through an easy to navigate user interface*.
The LG SmartTV Upgrader also offers a Web browser so viewers no longer need to turn on their laptop to access the Internet. With this feature, news, reviews and a host of other content can be viewed on the television screen.
“LG Smart TV is an exciting innovation and our LG SmartTV Upgrader provides an affordable option for consumers to adopt this new technology,” said Jay Vandenbree, senior vice president, LG Electronics USA. “Now any TV can be „Something Better‟ with virtually unlimited content options.”
Building upon the pioneering NetCast Entertainment Access offering, the LG SmartTV platform provides access to endless entertainment options from providers including*:
 VUDU– Allows consumers to buy or rent from an extensive catalog of more than 2,000 high-definition movies and TV titles without monthly fees or additional hardware. It also is the only online service to offer movies in 1080p.
 Netflix – Updated with Netflix 2.0, consumers can now stream thousands of movies without a PC.
 YouTube – Instantly streams millions of Web videos directly from the Internet.
tim
www.LG.com
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 CinemaNow – Allows consumers to browse from the CinemaNow premium content catalog and instantly stream purchased or rented movies and popular TV shows.
 Hulu Plus – Subscribers have access to back seasons or full runs of some of TV‟s greatest shows.
 Amazon Video on Demand – Allows consumers to view more than 75,000 hit movies and television shows instantly.
 Live Streaming Sports (multiple partners) – Pro sports fans can follow their favorite teams, stay up to date with player profiles, and stream games in HD quality.
The LG App Store is also populated with hundreds of applications for download. The user-friendly interface can be easily navigated by a remote control with finger touch pad or smart phone with an Android or iPhone QWERTY keyboard application.
LG‟s Smart Share function allows users to wirelessly stream content from their PCs and other compatible devices for viewing on their television screen. Smart Share also includes Media Link, which provides additional information, such as cover art or liner notes, for content being streamed. The Upgrader includes built-in WiFi and uses an HDMI connection.
Specifications
 WiFi 802.11 BGN
 Connections
- HDMI
- Optical
- USB
 A/C Power
For more information and product images, please visit LG‟s online press kit at www.lgnewsroom.com/CES2011.
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tim
www.LG.com
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*Design, features specifications, pricing and availability subject to change.
*Internet connection & subscriptions required and sold separately. The Magic Motion Remote does not come equipped with all LG SmartTV enabled TVs and separate purchase maybe required.
*For a small percentage of the population, the viewing of stereoscopic 3D video may cause discomfort such as dizziness or nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue using the 3D functionality and contact your health care provider. 3D glasses required and sold separately.
About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 80,000 people working in over 115 operations around the world. With 2009 global sales of 55.5 trillion Korean won (USD 43.4 billion), LG comprises four business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, and Air Conditioning & Energy Solutions. LG is one of the world‟s leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner and a Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit www.lg.com.
About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA, Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a global force and technology leader in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications. In the United States, LG Electronics sells a range of stylish and innovative home entertainment products, mobile phones, home appliances, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and solar energy solutions, all under LG‟s “Life‟s Good” marketing theme. For more information, please visit www.lg.com.

 

The Sony Internet TV player is one of the first Google TV set-top boxes to come out of the gate. Does this box live up to the hype?

Hardware

As we went over in our previous hardware tour of the Sony Internet TV Player the hardware is top notch which is what you would expect from Sony. Good build quality with plenty of power to run Google TV and your Blu-Ray movies.  It is a bit on the heavy and wide side but it has a nice look that will fit right into your home entertainment system.  The remote is good but the track pad is just not big enough to navigate the menu system well. The keyboard is nice but can feel weird when typing on it but does feel good in the hand and the remote is nice and compact.  Overall good build quality from Sony

.

For full hardware tour with pictures check out Sony Internet TV Hardware Tour

Usage

The system performs nicely with the hardware. The controller will connect with most of your major components in your home entertainment system automatically but some will not like with TiVo where I had to do a search to find the proper IR codes to get it to work. While the controller will take most of the basic functionality and even a little bit more you still won’t be able to get rid of your other remotes as some things will not transfer over.  

I didn’t experience any hang ups or slow downs with the software. The menu is very stock android with the Google TV interface over it. Simple to navigate but like with android on the phone some parts leave a lot left to be desired and hopefully with the Android Market in 2011 we will see the gaps get filled in.

For a full software overview check out Google TV Final Review

Overall

The Sony Internet TV player is a good start to the Google TV experience. The addition of a Blu-Ray player will appeal to those who like and want to combine devices.  At the price that it is now its good for those looking for combined devices but you want to be sure that you understand that you are going to be an early adopter and you will need to wait for the opening of the Android Market to Google TV before you see its full potential

For all articles related to Google TV head over to BWOne.com/GoogleTV

Click the picture below to buy from Best Buy

Sony Internet TV Player

Finally the long awaited Boxee Box is going to be released on November 10th for an average street price of about $199.99.  It should begin to hit retail stores on November 17th.  Check inside for press release and a video that we did back at CES 2010 describe what the Boxee Box is.

Press Release

Boxee Box by D-Link to Ship November 10
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA–(Marketwire – October 20, 2010) – Today, D-Link and Boxee announced the upcoming Boxee Box by D-Link will begin shipping on November 10, 2010 to customers who pre-order the Boxee Box through Amazon in the United States or Best Buy and Future Shop in Canada. The Boxee Box will be generally available through the company’s vast network of retail and online distributors on November 17, 2010.
"We’ve seen amazing demand for the Boxee Box across all of our pre-order partners in the US and internationally," said Rod St. Michel, vice president of consumer sales at D-Link. "Consumers are looking for the right product to get their favorite TV shows and movies onto their TV from the Internet and their home network, and the Boxee Box is the friendliest, and most consumer-ready product currently available."
The award-winning Boxee Box, first unveiled in December 2009, received critical acclaim from the industry and is highly anticipated by consumers. The product is the first media device capable of playing most popular media file formats from a home network along with free and premium TV shows and movies, videos, music, and photos from the Internet, with support for full 1080p high-definition (HD) and 5.1 surround sound.
With tens-of-thousands of movies, shows and apps available*, the Boxee Box gives users unparalleled access to on-demand entertainment and newfound control over their TV:
*
TV on Your Schedule. Nearly 40,000 TV episodes available from your favorite networks, ready to watch any time you want.
*
Huge Movie Library. Enjoy a vast range of free movies and new releases in stunning HD from premium movie services.
*
Plays All Your Digital Stuff. Access videos, music, or pictures from your computer or home network.
*
Tailored to Your Couch. Internet TV should be more than just Internet on your TV. The Boxee Box and two-faced QWERTY remote are designed to transform the Internet into something you’ll love watching on your HDTV from the couch.
*
See What Your Friends Are Watching. Follow what your Facebook and Twitter friends are watching, and share your favorites too.
*
Give Your Wallet a Break. Why pay for stuff you don’t watch? The Boxee Box lets you watch tens-of-thousands of popular TV shows and movies — you choose what you pay for!
Try Boxee Now. Unlike other devices, interested buyers can try the Boxee Box’ software for free before they buy the device. The software is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux users at Boxee’s website — http://boxee.tv. Since the software’s launch two years ago, Boxee has added well over one million users. When you want to shift the viewing experience from your PC to your HDTV, the Boxee Box by D-Link automatically imports your account, bringing your favorite TV shows, apps, and friends with you.
Pricing and Availability
The Boxee Box by D-Link will begin shipping on November 10, 2010 for customers who have pre-ordered from Amazon in the United States and Best Buy or Future Shop in Canada. Additionally, pre-orders taken in Australia/New Zealand and other countries across Europe will begin shortly thereafter. Pricing for the US and Canada will be $229 MSRP with an average street price at about $199. Prices may vary in other regions.
Pre-Order Links
US: http://amzn.to/boxeeboxbydlink
Canada — Best Buy: http://www.bestbuy.ca/en-CA/boxee.aspx
Canada — Future Shop: www.futureshop.ca/boxee
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0043EV3MS/
Australia/New Zealand: www.dlink.com.au/boxeebox
Important Links
http://www.dlink.com
http://www.dlink.com/boxeebox
http://www.boxee.tv
http://www.boxee.tv/box
http://www.facebook.com/boxeeboxbydlink
http://www.twitter.com/dlink
http://www.twitter.com/boxee
About The Boxee Box
The award-winning Boxee Box by D-Link streams your favorite movies, shows and videos from the Internet, and plays your home videos, music collection, or digital pictures on your HDTV — letting you enjoy free entertainment at your convenience from the comfort of your couch. It also gives your TV a social life, letting you watch crazy stuff your friends are sharing on Facebook and Twitter. Visit http://www.dlink.com/boxeebox to transform your home entertainment experience.

Today Netflix announce the availability of a disc free Netflix channel on the Wii.  The Wii now will join the PS3 and Xbox 360 as pure streaming consoles with nothing more that a Netflix subscription needed.  We take a look at the new channel and be sure to check out the press release as well.

Press Release

Netflix Now Available as a Download from the Wii Shop Channel
Watching Movies and TV Shows Streamed Instantly from Netflix is Now Just a Click Away
REDMOND, Wash.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Beginning today, Netflix members in the United States and Canada can stream content through their Wii™ consoles with Netflix installed on their Wii Menu. The Netflix disc that was used for instant streaming on the Wii console will no longer be required. Netflix members who have a plan starting at $8.99 a month ($7.99 in Canada), a Wii console and a broadband Internet connection can now instantly watch movies and TV shows streamed directly to their TVs by simply downloading Netflix from the Wii Shop Channel. This new channel is available at no extra cost. The new disc-free option installs Netflix on the Wii Menu, making it convenient for Wii owners to quickly access streaming movies and TV shows.
"At this time of year, consumers have a near-insatiable demand for family entertainment," said Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. "And this simplified Netflix access will help bring families together more quickly, more easily and in more ways than ever before. More than 3 million Wii systems have already connected to Netflix, demonstrating how easy the service is to set up and use."
"Wii is a consummate home entertainment platform and has quickly become one of the best and most popular ways to enjoy movies streamed from Netflix," said Reed Hastings, co-founder and CEO of Netflix. "The availability of Netflix right on the Wii Menu adds significantly to the ease and convenience that attracts our members to the Netflix streaming experience and is an important step in our efforts to continuously improve the service."
Wii offers consumers the most fun right out of the box. Precision motion controls, online access and great games are all included at no extra charge. For a suggested retail price of just $199.99 ($209.99 in Canada), Wii owners get:
The Wii console, Wii Sports™, Wii Sports Resort™, a Wii Remote™ controller, a Wii MotionPlus™ accessory and a Nunchuk™ controller
Access* to hundreds of downloadable games in the Wii Shop Channel, including original games like World of Goo and classic games from the NES™, Super NES™ and Nintendo 64™ eras
Access* to a variety of entertainment and informational channels, including the Nintendo® Channel, which provides information about current and upcoming Wii and Nintendo DS™ games
Access* to streaming Netflix movies and TV shows
The Netflix service has been available on the Wii console in the United States since April 12, 2010, and in Canada since Sept. 22, 2010. For more information about how to stream Netflix through a Wii console, visit http://www.netflix.com/wii or http://www.netflix.ca/wii.
Remember that Wii and Netflix feature parental controls that let adults manage the content their children can access. For more information about this and other features, visit http://wii.com and http://www.netflix.com.
* Broadband Internet connection required. Netflix streaming requires Netflix subscription.

Tivo announced today in a press release that Hulu Plus will be coming to TiVo Premiere users in “the coming months”. Service will eb an additional $9.99 which you will pay separate from your TiVo and cable subscriptions. Full press release inside.

ALVISO, CA — (Marketwire) — 09/28/2010 — TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVO), the creator of and a leader in advanced television services including digital video recorders (DVRs) for consumers, content distributors and consumer electronics manufacturers, today announced that it has teamed with Hulu™ to provide TiVo® Premiere DVR subscribers with access to the full-array of Hulu Plus™ content streamed instantly to their TVs. The Hulu Plus channel will be available via subscription to all TiVo Premiere customers in the coming months.*

The agreement solidifies TiVo’s leading position as the only one-box solution on the market that delivers the most complete entertainment content to the TV with the unmatched ability to use one user interface and one remote to access a sea of broadband, linear and video on demand content.

Hulu Plus offers one of the deepest offerings of current TV shows on a streaming platform to subscribers in the U.S., including every episode of more than 45 current hit programs from ABC, FOX and NBC like Modern Family, Grey’s Anatomy, Glee, Family Guy, The Office and 30 Rock. In addition, TV lovers with TiVo Premiere DVRs will be able to enjoy full series runs and numerous back seasons of dozens of classic shows like The X-Files, Law and Order: SVU, Arrested Development, Saturday Night Live, Miami Vice, Ugly Betty, Quantum Leap, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Roswell and Ally McBeal.

"Adding Hulu Plus to TiVo’s content offering was really the key missing piece to the programming portfolio that TiVo needed in order to deliver a truly comprehensive advanced television offering on the market today — bar none," said Tara Maitra, VP & General Manager, Content Services and Ad Sales, TiVo Inc. "TiVo is the complete TV entertainment solution. No other service is as robust or offers consumers the ability to access live TV, Web video, and video on demand content from one box like TiVo does."

Pete Distad, VP of Content Distribution for Hulu, said, "We are laser focused on helping people find and enjoy the world’s premium video content when, where and how they want it. Our goal for Hulu Plus is to provide as much consumer choice as possible, and Hulu Plus on TiVo’s Premiere DVR offering is a compelling way for us to drive our mission forward."

* Separate subscriptions to Hulu Plus and the TiVo Service will be required to access Hulu Plus on TiVo Premiere DVRs.

About TiVo Inc.
Founded in 1997, TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVO) developed the first commercially available digital video recorder (DVR). TiVo offers the TiVo service and TiVo DVRs directly to consumers online at www.tivo.com and through third-party retailers. TiVo also distributes its technology and services through solutions tailored for cable, satellite and broadcasting companies. Since its founding, TiVo has evolved into the ultimate single solution media center by combining its patented DVR technologies and universal cable box capabilities with the ability to aggregate, search, and deliver millions of pieces of broadband, cable, and broadcast content directly to the television. An economical, one-stop-shop for in-home entertainment, TiVo’s intuitive functionality and ease of use puts viewers in control by enabling them to effortlessly navigate the best digital entertainment content available through one box, with one remote, and one user interface, delivering the most dynamic user experience on the market today. TiVo also continues to weave itself into the fabric of the media industry by providing interactive advertising solutions and audience research and measurement ratings services to the television industry www.tivo.com

TiVo and the TiVo Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of TiVo Inc. or its subsidiaries worldwide. © 2010 TiVo Inc. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

About Hulu
Hulu is an online video service whose mission is to help people find and enjoy the world’s premium content when, where and how they want it. As we pursue this mission, we aspire to create a service that users, advertisers and content owners unabashedly love. Hulu was founded in 2007 and is operated independently by a dedicated team with offices in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Beijing. NBC Universal, News Corporation, The Walt Disney Company, Providence Equity Partners, and the Hulu team share in the ownership of the company. (www.hulu.com)

Contact Information:     Contact:
Erik Milster
For TiVo Inc.
(212) 446.1866
emilster@sloanepr.com