Kylo aims at Mac and Windows HTPCs

Loop pointer creator Hillcrest Labs began its week through Kylo, one of the first web browsers explicitly meant for home theater PCs. The app gives a Mac or Windows PC an interface designed for the larger sizes and longer viewing distances of modern flat panels. Both the user interfaces and fonts are larger, and most toolbars are moved out of the way to make room for the page; an on-screen keyboard reduces the need for a peripheral beyond a mouse.

The core web renderer is based on the same Mozilla engine that runs Firefox and so renders most TV sites properly, including those that have to use Flash.

Hillcrest is making the browser available for free today but has already encountered controversy. The company noted that Hulu now claims the video is "not available on your platform" and has suggested that the studio-owned TV website may be blocking playback in a bid to protect cable and satellite providers from Internet TV. Hulu worked properly during the pre-release schedule, Hillcrest said, and a deliberate block would be a limitation on computers and not just online videos.

"Like Internet Explorer, Firefox or Safari, the Kylo browser is simply a Web browser," CEO Dan Simpkins said in defending his app. "It's our sincere hope that Hulu isn't restricting access."

Hulu has yet to comment on the problems.

The move wouldn't be a first, as Boxee has had a well-publicized battle with Hulu in trying to guarantee web video playback through its own HTPC-oriented media interface. While Hulu and NBC have made contradictory accusations blaming each other for the move, many observers believe the move reflects an unstated but known policy of attempting to shelter conventional TV and prevent customers from simply canceling their existing service in favor of less expensive and more flexible Internet content.

By Electronista Staff