Plex to integrate with LG TVs as "free" Apple TV alternative
updated 09:00 am EDT, Fri September 3, 2010
Plex to build into LG TVs and Blu-ray players
Plex at IFA has revealed that its media front end is being integrated into new LG TVs and Blu-ray players. Any Internet-capable devices made in 2011 will access an online version of Plex. Although they won't have the usual local storage, they will recognize any Plex Media Servers on the local network and share their content much like the Mac and iOS clients.
The firm added that it saw Plex as a cheaper and possibly better alternative to an Apple TV. Although it requires the cost of LG hardware, Plex on these devices is effectively "free," co-founder Elan Feingold said: since the TV or Blu-ray player is already necessary for many, it won't cost extra to have network media streaming. He added that Plex's plugin architecture made it more open than Apple's hub, which works well but is largely confined to its own ecosystem. A Mac mini or similar hub is more open but, at $699, is much more expensive.
The Plex-capable LG hardware will include the bulk of the 2011 lineup with LG's Netcast badging. Plex also promised an Android equivalent to the iOS app and that it's still working on a Windows version of its client.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: May 2009
different kind of "closed"
Kinda hypocritical to call the Apple TV closed, when the Plex system itself is only available on LG. Apple TV is compatible with any HDtv, not just a Netcast LG. And no mention of wi-fi access to my computer content.