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AT&T Readies DirecTV Now Streaming Tests with 5G Wireless Connections[teaser]The company is prepping ultra-fast internet streaming tests.[/teaser] AT&T has announced plans to test 5G internet connections with DirecTV Now content. Likewise, the company is also readying additional fixed and mobile 5G trials throughout 2017 as the industry continues to move toward standards for the new ultra-fast internet technology. "Our 5G Evolution plans will pave the way to the next-generation of higher speeds for customers. We're not waiting until the final standards are set to lay the foundation for our evolution to 5G. We're executing now," said John Donovan, chief strategy officer and group president, Technology and Operations. "Data on our mobile network has increased about 250,000% since 2007, and the majority of that traffic is video. 5G's promise of greater speed and overall network performance brings huge opportunities not only for video but in the Internet of Things, 4K video, augmented and virtual reality, smart home and cities, autonomous vehicles and much more." As part of the company's upcoming tests, AT&T plans to hold a trial in Austin where residential customers will be able to stream the DIRECTV Now video service over a fixed wireless 5G connection. Likewise, the provider will also test additional next-gen entertainment platforms over fixed 5G connections across multiple sites and devices. Initial lab trials for 5G have already yielded speeds up to 14 gigabits-per-second (Gbps) and connections with less than 3 milliseconds of latency. In addition to DirecTV Now streaming, AT&T is also partnering with Qualcomm Technologies and Ericsson for mobile and fixed wireless 5G trials in the second half of 2017. Likewise, the company previously launched a 5G business customer trial in Austin with Intel and Ericsson last fall. AT&T's DirecTV Now 5G testing is set to begin in the first half of 2017. Source: AT&TPosted Fri Jan 13, 2017 at 05:30 AM PST by: -
Sony Reveals 2017 EXTRA BASS Headphones Lineup[teaser]Several new headphones have been announced.[/teaser] Sony has detailed the latest additions to its EXTRA BASS Headphones Series. The new models include the MDR-XB950N1 wireless noise cancelling headphones, the MDR-XB950B1 wireless headphones, the MDR-XB550AP wired headphones, and the MDR-XB510AS water-resistant, in-ear sports headphones. The MDR-XB950N1 and MDR-XB950B1 wireless headphones both offer enhanced bass response, Bluetooth audio streaming connectivity with Near Field Communications (NFC) technology, and aptX & AAC codec support. Likewise, the headphones feature a hands-free calling option through an integrated microphone and Bluetooth profile. Users can also control the headphones with the Sony Headphones Connect app, allowing listeners to emulate different listening experiences, including Arena, Club, Concert Hall, and Outdoor Stage, along with the option to adjust bass levels. In addition, the MDR-XB950N1 model includes added noise cancelling technology. The XB950B1 is rated for up to 18 hours of use on a full charge while the XB950N1 is rated for up to 22 hours of continuous, wireless music playback. Meanwhile, the MDR-XB550AP wired headphones feature 30 mm driver units with a 5 – 22,000 Hz frequency response. In addition, the headphones use a premium metal headband and include an in-line remote with microphone for simple controls, including call answer/end, and audio track play/pause functionality. Likewise, customers can also use a Smart Key App (available at Google Play) to customize the control of the in-line remote through their smartphone. The MDR-XB550AP will be available in black, red, blue, green, and white. Finally, the MDR-XB510AS in-ear sports headphones feature enhanced bass along with an arc supporter design, ensuring a stable fit for active users. Likewise, the headphones are IPX5/7 water-proof and highly sweat resistant, making them the perfect fit for workouts. In addition to the arc supporter, the unit also includes a clip, cord adjuster, and mesh carrying pouch. Exact release dates and pricing have not been announced yet, but the new Sony EXTRA BASS Headphones Series will be available in Spring 2017. Source: SonyPosted Thu Jan 12, 2017 at 01:45 PM PST by: -
Netflix Preps New Amy Schumer Stand-Up Comedy Special, Streaming Premiere Set for March 7[teaser]The comedian is heading to Netflix in March.[/teaser] Netflix has announced a new original comedy special from Amy Schumer. The stand-up show was taped on November 5 at the Bellco Theater in Denver, and is set to premiere globally through Netflix on Tuesday, March 7. "As a comedian, actress, writer, director, producer and best-selling author, Amy Schumer is a boundless threat and a one-of-a-kind talent. We couldn't be more excited that she's making Netflix her home for her next stand-up comedy special," said Ted Sarandos, Chief Content Officer, Netflix. "Very happy to be a part of the Netflix family for this special," said Schumer. "Maybe now they will look at my 'Stranger Things' audition tape to play the demogorgon for Season 2." "Totally fearless and always hilarious, Amy Schumer's bold & singular voice in comedy is a brilliant match for Netflix and our global comedy fans," said Lisa Nishimura, VP of Original Documentary and Comedy. Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' on January 13, 'Frontier' on January 20, 'David Brent: Life on the Road' on February 10, and 'Iron Fist' on March 17. Likewise, the streaming platform is also prepping two new comedy specials from Chris Rock, new seasons of 'Chelsea,' 'Lady Dynamite,' and 'Real Rob,' the second season of 'Stranger Things' for 2017, the third season of 'Bloodline' for 2017, new episodes of the documentary series 'Making a Murderer,' 'Bill Nye Saves the World' for 2017, Marvel's 'The Punisher,' Marvel's 'The Defenders,' a second season of 'Luke Cage,' Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It,' a feature film adaptation of the manga 'Death Note,' the final season of 'Longmire' for 2017, a new series called 'Atypical,' Duncan Jones' 'Mute,' the South Korean disaster film 'Pandora' for 2017, the Scandinavian thriller 'The Rain' for 2018, and a new series based on 'Lost in Space' for 2018. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Thu Jan 12, 2017 at 12:00 PM PST by: -
Hulu Debuts Teaser for 'The Handmaid's Tale,' Streaming Premiere Set for April 26[teaser]The first teaser for the upcoming series has been released.[/teaser] Hulu has revealed an official teaser for 'The Handmaid's Tale.' The streaming show is based on the novel of the same name by Margaret Atwood and is being produced by MGM Television. The Handmaid's Tale is the story of life in the dystopia of Gilead, a totalitarian society in what was formerly part of the United States. Facing environmental disasters and a plunging birthrate, Gilead is ruled by a twisted religious fundamentalism that treats women as property of the state. As one of the few remaining fertile women, Offred (Elisabeth Moss) is a Handmaid in the Commander's household, one of the caste of women forced into sexual servitude as a last desperate attempt to repopulate a devastated world. In this terrifying society where one wrong word could end her life, Offred navigates between Commanders, their cruel Wives, domestic Marthas, and her fellow Handmaids – where anyone could be a spy for Gilead -- all with one goal: to survive and find the daughter that was taken from her. Check out the teaser below! In addition to Moss, the cast also includes Joseph Fiennes, Yvonne Strahovski, Samira Wiley, and Alexis Bledel. The drama series is created, executive produced, and written by Bruce Miller ('The 100'). Daniel Wilson, Fran Sears, and Warren Littlefield ('Fargo') also serve as executive producers. The 10-episode first season is set to premiere through Hulu on April 26. Other upcoming Hulu series include 'The Path' season two on January 25, the first season of 'National Treasure' on March 1, a reimagining of 'Foxy Brown' starring Meagan Good, and 'Future Man' from executive producers Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Matt Tolmach, and James Weaver. A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Source: Hulu (YouTube)Posted Thu Jan 12, 2017 at 06:30 AM PST by: -
JVC DLA-RS4500 Projector Receives THX 4K Display Certification[teaser]The 4K home theater projector is now THX certified.[/teaser] JVC has announced THX 4K Display Certification for its DLA-RS4500 projector. This now makes the DLA-RS4500 the world's only THX Certified 4K projector. The projector features a native 4096 x 2160 4K D-ILA Device, along with a new high-resolution lens developed specifically for 4K applications and JVC's proprietary second generation BLU-Escent laser phosphor light engine, enabling a brightness level of 3000 lumens, 20,000 hours of operational life, and support for screen sizes over 200 inches. In addition, the device offers HDR (high dynamic rage) playback for HDR10 and Hybrid Log-Gamma content. Likewise, the unit is capable of a wide color gamut of 100 percent DCI P3 and over 80 percent coverage of BT.2020. In order to achieve THX 4K Display Certification, the projector passed hundreds of THX lab tests designed to ensure THX performance standards. And as part of the THX Certification process, the projector now comes complete with THX viewing modes right out of the box. Additional features also include: - Two full speed full spec 18Gbps HDMI inputs with HDR and HDCP2.2. - JVC's Multiple Pixel Control employs a new algorithm optimized for the new 4K device to produce detailed images even when converted from Full HD images. - The DLA-RS4500 features JVC’s original blur reduction technology, Clear Motion Drive, which is compatible with 4K60p (4:4:4), and Motion Enhance, which minimizes motion blur by optimizing the D-ILA driver. These two technologies, working together, result in a smooth and detailed image. - Onboard Screen Modes that optimizes color and performance for different screen materials. - Low Latency Mode, which decreases input lag from the source. - Ten preset installation modes that combine settings for Lens Memory, Pixel Adjust, Screen Mask and other parameters to easily tailor settings to each installation. The JVC DLA-RS4500 4K projector will be available this month for a suggested retail price of $34,999.95. Source: JVCPosted Thu Jan 12, 2017 at 05:30 AM PST by: -
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DISH Brings Amazon Alexa Voice Control to Hopper 3 DVR[teaser]Alexa voice control support is coming to the Hopper 3.[/teaser] DISH has announced plans to add Amazon Alexa compatibility to its Hopper 3 DVR. With Alexa support, users will be able to voice control their set-top boxes through a paired Amazon Echo or Echo Dot. "We constantly evaluate emerging technology, like Alexa, and its potential to improve how people watch and control their TVs," said Niraj Desai, DISH vice president of product management. "This allows us to design strategic roadmaps and deliver products that make TV more valuable, at no extra cost to subscribers." Once updated, broadband-connected Hopper DVRs (all generations) will be able to pair directly with an Amazon Echo or Echo Dot, adding hands-free Alexa voice control support. This will allow users to ask Alexa to navigate, search, and quick play TV content based on channel, title, actor, and genre. For instance, a customer could simply say "Tune to AMC" or "Find Matt Damon movies" to change channels or search for films. "Amazon is excited to be working with DISH to develop an Alexa skill that offers a hands-free television experience, expanding the ways that our customers can use Alexa devices like Amazon Echo to make their lives easier," said Rob Pulciani, director, Amazon Alexa. "You no longer have to set down your popcorn to change the channel, or spend time searching for what channel the game is on – just ask Alexa to do it for you." Alexa support is expected to arrive on DISH's Hopper 3 DVRs during the first half of this year. Meanwhile, DISH also recently launched a new 4K Android streaming media player under its AirTV subsidiary. The AirTV player offers access to thousands of movies, TV shows, and apps, along with the option to watch OTA content. Source: DISHPosted Wed Jan 11, 2017 at 07:30 AM PST by: -
Netflix Releases Trailer for 'Frontier,' Streaming Premiere Set for January 20[teaser]The new series will start streaming later this month.[/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for its upcoming original show, 'Frontier.' The historical drama is a co-production between Discovery Channel (Canada) and Netflix. The series is an action-packed adventure drama following the chaotic and violent struggle to control wealth and power in the North American fur trade in the late 18th century. Told from multiple perspectives, the series takes place in a world where business negotiations might be resolved with close-quarter hatchet fights, and where delicate relations between Native tribes and Europeans can spark bloody conflicts. The show stars Jason Momoa, Landon Liboiron, and Alun Armstrong. The first season of 'Frontier' will start streaming through Netflix on January 20. In addition, the series has already received a second season renewal. Check out the official trailer below! Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' on January 13, 'David Brent: Life on the Road' on February 10, and 'Iron Fist' on March 17. Likewise, the streaming platform is also prepping two new comedy specials from Chris Rock, new seasons of 'Chelsea,' 'Lady Dynamite,' and 'Real Rob,' the second season of 'Stranger Things' for 2017, the third season of 'Bloodline' for 2017, new episodes of the documentary series 'Making a Murderer,' 'Bill Nye Saves the World' for 2017, Marvel's 'The Punisher,' Marvel's 'The Defenders,' a second season of 'Luke Cage,' Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It,' a feature film adaptation of the manga 'Death Note,' the final season of 'Longmire' for 2017, a new series called 'Atypical,' Duncan Jones' 'Mute,' the South Korean disaster film 'Pandora' for 2017, the Scandinavian thriller 'The Rain' for 2018, and a new series based on 'Lost in Space' for 2018. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Wed Jan 11, 2017 at 06:30 AM PST by: -
Sony Unveils STR-DN1080 HiFi AV Receiver with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X[teaser]The new receiver will support object-based audio formats.[/teaser] Sony has detailed its latest AV receiver model. The upcoming STR-DN1080 offers immersive surround sound, high-resolution audio, and 4K Ultra HD support. The STR-DN1080 is a 7.2 channel AV receiver with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based audio formats. In addition, the device incorporates Sony's Phantom Surround Back tech, allowing the receiver to create a 7.1.2 ch speaker configuration with a 5.1.2 ch speaker setup. Likewise, the unit also includes support for several legacy surround formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. The company's new D.C.A.C. EX sound field compensation technology is featured as well, combining advanced D.C.A.C.2 with Speaker Relocation. This process balances audio output to closely simulate sound as would be produced from optimally positioned and angled speakers -- even when such a configuration is not possible. Meanwhile, when it comes to video, the receiver offers six HDMI inputs, and two outputs that support full HDCP 2.2 compliance, 4K 60P (4:4:4. 3) Ultra HD content, and the new BT.2020 wide color gamut broadcast standard. Likewise, the unit can also simultaneously distribute 4K video and multichannel audio to two different zones. In addition, the STR-DN1080 is capable of High-Resolution Audio, including DSD native playback. Finally, USB, Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Wireless Multi-Room capabilities are featured as well. Sony's new STR-DN1080 7.2 channel AV receiver is set to launch in Spring 2017. An exact release date and pricing have not been announced yet. Beyond the upcoming receiver, Sony also recently announced its new VPL-VZ1000ES Ultra HD projector, UBP-X800 Ultra HD Blu-ray player, X930E/X940E Series Ultra HD TVs, BRAVIA OLED A1E Series Ultra HD TVs, and HT-ST5000, HT-CT800, HT-MT500, HT-MT300 and HT-CT290 soundbars. Source: SonyPosted Wed Jan 11, 2017 at 05:30 AM PST by: -
DISH Launches AirTV 4K Android Streaming Player with OTA Channel Adapter[teaser]The new streaming player offers an optional adapter for over-the-air channels.[/teaser] AirTV, a a wholly owned subsidiary of DISH DBS Corporation, has announced the release of its AirTV player. The 4K Android streaming device offers access to thousands of movies, TV shows, and apps, along with the option to watch OTA content. "Americans are rediscovering free local, over-the-air TV for sports, shows and news, particularly given how well OTA complements popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Sling TV and YouTube," said Mitch Weinraub, director of product development for AirTV. "AirTV's new streaming device and antenna installation service again make getting your entertainment as easy as turning on the TV." The AirTV player is a 4K Android TV-based media player with access to Netflix, Sling TV, YouTube and thousands of content options through the Google Play Store. Likewise, the device can also play free local OTA (over-the-air) channels through an additional AirTV adapter and OTA antenna (both sold separately). Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and HDMI connectivity are integrated as well. Here's a rundown of key features per the press release: - Pre-loaded apps: AirTV Player includes Netflix, Sling TV and YouTube pre-installed for easy access to popular streaming content. A Sling TV account and Netflix membership are required to access those apps. - Google Play Store: Built on Android TV, AirTV Player provides access to thousands of shows, movies, apps and games through the Google Play Store. A Google account is required to use the Google Play Store. - Netflix integration: With the click of a button, a user can launch directly into their selected Netflix content within the Netflix app. Users without a Netflix subscription will have a row of curated suggestions of TV shows and movies along with the ability to sign up and start watching. - 4K compatible: AirTV Player can play 4K content, available on Netflix and other apps in the Google Play Store. - Wi-Fi compatible: AirTV Player connects to dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz) networks that use the 802.11ac / n/ a / b / g standard. - Bluetooth voice remote: The AirTV remote controls the AirTV Player via Bluetooth and provides access to popular apps, including dedicated buttons for Sling TV, Netflix and Google. The remote features voice capabilities and can control power and volume on any connected TV or sound system utilizing infrared. AirTV Player can automatically detect a connected TV or sounds system using HDMI CEC, or the user can enter the information manually. The AirTV Player is now available for purchase at AirTV.net for $99.99 (streaming only). In addition, the AirTV Player with OTA AirTV Adapter bundle is available for $129.99. Likewise, a standalone AirTV Adapter is available for $39.99 (if a consumer chooses to add OTA integration at a later date). And as an added bonus, buyers of the AirTV Player can receive a $50 Sling TV credit, available to new and existing Sling TV users. Source: AirTV via Business WirePosted Tue Jan 10, 2017 at 09:30 AM PST by: -
CBS All Access Reveals Official Trailer for 'The Good Fight,' Streaming Premiere Set for February 19[teaser]The spinoff of 'The Good Wife' will start streaming in February.[/teaser] Following an initial teaser, CBS has released a full trailer for its upcoming streaming show, 'The Good Fight.' The series is set premiere on Sunday, Feb. 19 at 8:00 PM ET on CBS All Access, along with a Special Preview Broadcast on CBS at 8:00 PM ET/PT. After the premiere, new episodes will be released weekly on Sundays exclusively through CBS All Access. "CBS All Access has built tremendous momentum in the past year – passing one million subscribers, launching our first original with BIG BROTHER: OVER THE TOP and, most recently, bringing live NFL ON CBS programming to the service," said Marc DeBevoise, President and Chief Operating Officer, CBS Interactive. "We're continuing this momentum with the upcoming launch of THE GOOD FIGHT which promises to not only deliver more ambitious premium programming for our subscribers but an opportunity for world-class creators like Robert and Michelle King to push the envelope in new ways." 'The Good Fight' picks up one year after the events of the final broadcast episode of 'The Good Wife.' In the new series, an enormous financial scam has destroyed the reputation of a young lawyer, Maia Rindell, while simultaneously wiping out her mentor and godmother Diane Lockhart's savings. Forced out of Lockhart & Lee, they join Lucca Quinn at one of Chicago’s pre-eminent law firms. The series, from 'The Good Wife' creators Robert and Michelle King, stars Christine Baranski, Cush Jumbo, Rose Leslie, Delroy Lindo, Sarah Steele, Paul Guilfoyle, Bernadette Peters, Justin Bartha and Erica Tazel. Check out the official trailer below! CBS All Access offers next day streaming for new episodes of many popular shows and a library of over 8,500 on demand episodes, including content from current programs like 'Limitless' and 'Elementary,' and classic series like 'Star Trek' and 'Cheers.' Likewise, customers in more than 150 markets across the US -- including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia -- can watch live local CBS broadcasts through the app. The service is available in two subscription plans: reduced commercials for $5.99 per month or commercial-free for $9.99 per month. The commercial free option offers ad-free playback of on demand content and upcoming original shows. With that said, live streaming will still include the same commercials found in standard over-the-air broadcasts. Other upcoming CBS All Access exclusive series include 'Star Trek: Discovery,' which is set to premiere in May 2017. The service is currently available through the Xbox One, PS4, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick with Voice Remote, Roku players, Roku TVs, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox 360, and Windows 10, iOS and Android products. New customers can sign up for a one week free trial now at https://www.cbs.com/allaccess. Source: The Good Wife (YouTube)Posted Tue Jan 10, 2017 at 08:30 AM PST by:
