TiVo gets new UI, 1080p, Pandora

TiVo fought back in digital media tonight by launching the Series4, its long-planned overhaul of its DVRs. The new models center on a heavily redesigned, Flash-based and HD native interface that now puts online video services like Amazon VOD, Blockbuster and Netflix on a higher level than before; content available through those will appear in the same searches that spotlight regular TV shows. More Internet deals are also coming that will include Internet radio from Pandora and a mix of news, photos and status updates through FrameChannel.

Less dramatic adjustments include a 30-second scan mode to find a particular moment quickly, a video window to keep watching content uninterrupted, and a capacity gauge to make it clearer when old shows need to be erased.

Hardware has also been given a significant overhaul to bring it into the modern era. While the dial-up modem has disappeared, a single CableCARD slot now supports multistreaming and can record a show in the background without needing a second card. A multi-core processor is equally new and is key to 1080p support as well as third-party apps anticipated in the future. Ethernet networking and eSATA external storage carry over from Series3.

Optional accessories have been given more attention this time around and include a new Bluetooth remote that hides a slide-out QWERTY keyboard to speed up searches. An 802.11n Wi-Fi adapter is also due, and those dependent on dial-up will have the option of a modem.

Series4 is initially divided into two models dictated largely by capacity. The $300 Premiere holds a 320GB drive large enough for about 45 hours of typical HDTV. A much more capacious $500 Premiere XL will hold 1.5TB, or 150 hours, and will be THX-certified to help it integrate into home theaters with similar badging. Both of these are due in early April; the 802.11n adapter will be available for $90 in May, while dial-up will be an online-only purchase for $30.

TiVo's launch signals a new commitment to Internet content in the wake of a changed market. While the company has been quick to add online video as it became available, its DVRs have gradually lost impact as online-only set-top boxes like the Apple TV and the Roku Internet Player, as well as cross-over Blu-ray players, have reduced much of the dependence on time-shifted recordings from cable and satellite. Altering its interface to give equal weight to online video helps keep its device in constant use instead of letting customers drift away.

By Electronista Staff

Post tools:

TAGS :  

Amazon, industry, gadgets, digital imaging, tivo, Blockbuster, Apple TV, CableCard, Netflix, Roku, Pandora, FrameChannel, THX