Boxee regains Hulu support through RSS update
updated 10:25 am EST, Fri March 6, 2009
Boxee video RSS update
Boxee, the developer of its namesake media player front-end, has released a new alpha version of the app with a built-in RSS reader. The software is installed onto Mac and Ubuntu Linux systems as well as Apple TVs, and provides more elaborate support for downloaded media as well as direct web streaming of shows on ABC and CBS. The Boxee RSS reader is optimized for video, and can feed clips from YouTube, Yahoo and several other sources.
Among these is Hulu, the joint streaming service operated by NBC and Fox. The networks recently forced Boxee to remove its integrated Hulu component, in what is generally believed to be concern over lost advertising revenue. Users can now continue streaming Hulu content by way of RSS feeds, although Boxee admits that the interface is less convenient.
The new alpha also introduces the App Box, a component similar to the iTunes App Store which should simplify expanding the software with plug-ins and complete applications. Content can be downloaded from third-party sources as well as Boxee. Following similar lines the program has been given automatic update notification, prompting users to update whenever a new build becomes available.
The update is not yet ready for Ubuntu PCs.
