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Amazon Announces 24-Hour Digital Day Sales Event for December 30[teaser]The online retailer is offering a special one-day sales event for digital movies, TV shows, games, and more![/teaser] Amazon has announced its new Digital Day promotion. The 24-hour sales event will begin on Friday, December 30, offering a variety of discounts on select digital titles for all of your latest tech gadgets and devices. Amazon Digital Day is the deal event for your devices. On Friday, December 30, enjoy up to 80% off hundreds of video game titles, 50% off on top movies and TV shows, 75% off on hundreds of digital comics, and other great deals on popular content for your devices. Whether you're gifting or receiving gadgets this year, this 24-hour sale is one of the best times of the year to shop for must-have digital content. Digital titles set to go on sale include films like 'Bolt,' 'Storks,' and 'The Lego Movie,' along with games like 'Rocket League,' 'Fifa 17,' 'Titanfall 2,' and 'Madden 17.' In addition, discounts will also be available for digital comics from Marvel, music titles from various artists, e-books, software, and apps. The deals are set to go live starting at 12:00am PST on December 30. Beyond the retailer's new Digital Day sales event, Amazon also recently expanded Prime Video support to more countries around the world. The video streaming platform is now available in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Likewise, the service is continuing to bolster its original content with upcoming movies and shows like 'Gleason,' 'Z: The Beginning of Everything,' and 'Sneaky Pete.' A current US Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. Source: AmazonPosted Thu Dec 29, 2016 at 02:00 PM PST by: -
Samsung Details New H7 Wireless Speaker & MS750 Soundbar[teaser]Two new audio products will be revealed at CES 2017.[/teaser] Samsung has announced the latest additions to its home audio lineup, the H7 Wireless Speaker & MS750 Soundbar. Both devices incorporate the company's new UHQ 32bit Audio Technology. "Delivering clear, crisp, immersive sound is very important to Samsung, and we always strive to create new products that further complement the user experience," said Jurak Choi, Senior Vice President of Samsung Electronics. "This year, we focused on the audiophile who wants a single, simple solution that not only fits their lifestyle, but that simultaneously delivers an unparalleled home audio experience." The H7 Wireless Speaker features a sleek, contemporary metal finish along with an intuitive wheel control system, allowing users to adjust the volume and select music by turning the wheel. In addition, the speaker uses Samsung's new proprietary UHQ 32bit Audio Technology which enables upscaled 32bit sound from any wired or wireless source that provides 8 to 24bit audio. Likewise, the device offers a bass response going down to 35Hz, resulting in a wide range from low to high frequencies. Meanwhile, the new MS750 Soundbar features a "one body" design with integrated subwoofer performance. In addition, the device offers superior up-firing capabilities with overhead sound that uses vertical tweeters with upmixing technology. Likewise, the soundbar also includes support for Samsung's UHQ 32bit audio technology. Full details, including pricing and availability for the H7 Wireless Speaker & MS750 Soundbar are expected to be announced at CES 2017 on January 5-8 in Las Vegas. Beyond the new audio products, Samsung also recently announced plans to debut its new M9500 Ultra HD Blu-ray player at the show as well. Source: SamsungPosted Thu Dec 29, 2016 at 01:30 PM PST by: -
Twitter Adds Support for Live 360 Degree Videos Through Periscope[teaser]The social media platform is now offering 360 degree video playback.[/teaser] Twitter has announced the addition of live 360 degree video support through Periscope. All Twitter and Periscope users can now watch the available 360 content, but only select partners can currently broadcast live in 360 through Periscope. With live 360 degree videos on Twitter, users can experience an immersive live viewing experience from an even more personal vantage point. 360 videos are marked by a "LIVE 360 badge" and when played users can change the point of view by moving their phone or tapping and scrolling around the screen to see up, behind, above, or below the broadcaster's view -- all while the video is streamed live, allowing viewers to enjoy front row access to exclusive events, travel to places across the globe, and get up close with well known personalities. Check out the sample 360 degree video tweet below! 360 Sunset in Florida. First ever #Periscope360 with @Brandee_Anthony https://t.co/AZWbnnT15S — Alex Pettitt (@Alexpettitt) December 28, 2016 Periscope is currently testing 360 broadcasts with a small group of partners. Expanded support for the new feature will be rolled out in the coming weeks, and users can apply to join the waitlist here. Beyond new 360 video support, Twitter recently released its streaming app for the Android TV platform. In addition to Android TV, the Twitter Live Streaming app is also available on Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, and Apple TV (4th generation). Likewise, the service will also be livestreaming 'The HFPA Presents: Globes Red Carpet Live.' The official red carpet pre-show for the '74th Annual Golden Globe Awards' will start streaming on January 8 from 6-8 pm ET (3-5 pm PT). Sources: Twitter, PeriscopePosted Thu Dec 29, 2016 at 01:00 PM PST by: -
Pioneer & Onkyo Preview CES 2017 Home Entertainment Lineup[teaser]Several new audio products will be on display at the show.[/teaser] Pioneer and Onkyo have announced plans to showcase their latest home entertainment products at CES 2017. The lineup will include wireless speakers, headphones, soundbars, digital audio players, and more. "The products on display at CES 2017 clearly demonstrate the innovation and commitment to providing consumers with the features and functionality they want," said Hiro Izutani, President of Onkyo USA Corporation. "From freeing consumers of traditional wires and cables, to offering whole home audio and portable hi-res music solutions, our lineup shows the depth and detail that have been the hallmark of both brands." Multi-room wireless speakers planned for the show include the Onkyo NCP-302 Wireless Multi-Room Speaker and the Pioneer MRX-3 Wireless Speaker. The NCP-302 is a Wi-Fi certified multi-room wireless speaker with dual 3-inch woofers and a 1-inch tweeter housed in a wood cabinet. Multi-room connectivity options include FireConnect and Play-Fi, along with music streaming support through Google Cast, AirPlay, and Bluetooth. When it comes to sound bars, the companies will be highlighting the Onkyo SBT-A500 Network Surround Sound Bar System and the Pioneer Elite FS-EB70 Network Sound Bar System with 360 degree DTS:X and Dolby Atmos surround sound support along with full 4K Ultra HD HDR 10 passthrough. Meanwhile, high-resolution audio devices will include Pioneer's next-generation XDP-300R digital audio player and Onkyo's DP-X1A digital audio player, along with new entry level models from both companies. Likewise, Pioneer will also showcase its new line of hi-res Bluetooth/wireless headphones, and Onkyo will reveal an early look at its new hi-res smartphone. Full details on the products above and information regarding even more new products will be announced at CES 2017 on January 5-8 in Las Vegas. Source: Pioneer, OnkyoPosted Thu Dec 29, 2016 at 12:30 PM PST by: -
Samsung Reveals New M9500 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player[teaser]A new Samsung UHD Blu-ray player is in the works.[/teaser] Samsung has revealed its latest Ultra HD Blu-ray player. The upcoming M9500 will join the company's previously released UBD-K8500 (review here). Though full details have not been announced yet, the M9500 will feature Ultra HD Blu-ray disc playback along with HDR (high dynamic range) support. Likewise, the player will include Bluetooth wireless streaming connectivity and Samsung Smart Remote integration across the UHD ecosystem. In addition, the device can automatically optimize a customer's TV screen and audio levels by analyzing the content source being played -- such as HDR, Atmos or DTS-X -- enabling users to enjoy the content they want without changing their TV or audio settings. A new Private Cinema Mode is offered as well, which allows TV audio to be transferred to personal Bluetooth headphones. Finally, the M9500 also provides expanded mobile integration, letting users watch Blu-ray titles on their mobile devices, along with support for watching 360-degree mobile content through the player on the big screen. More details, including potential pricing and availability, are expected to be announced at CES 2017 on January 5-8 in Las Vegas. In addition to the upcoming Samsung M9500, currently available US consumer Ultra HD Blu-ray players include the Samsung UBD-K8500 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player ($198), the Oppo UDP-203 Ultra HD Blu-ray player ($549), the Philips BDP7501 Ultra HD Blu-ray player ($230), the Panasonic DMP-UB900 Ultra HD Blu-ray player ($649), and the Microsoft Xbox One S ($249). Likewise, Oppo is prepping the UDP-205 Audiophile Ultra HD Blu-ray player for 2017, and Sony has announced its upcoming ES Series UBP-X1000E Ultra HD Blu-ray which will be exclusive to the custom installer market. Source: SamsungPosted Wed Dec 28, 2016 at 10:00 AM PST by: -
DirecTV Expands 4K Ultra HD Content Support to Businesses[teaser]Businesses can now offer 4K programming from DirecTV.[/teaser] AT&T has announced the availability of 4K Ultra HD content for businesses through DirecTV. The expansion makes DirecTV the first provider in the US to offer Ultra HD content to commercial venues. "Many of our bar and restaurant customers cater to sports fans. Now, with 4K UHD, they can 'up their game.' This is also an incredible opportunity for local businesses – waiting rooms, gyms and salons – to differentiate themselves through enhanced entertainment." said Doug Eichler, vice president of commercial sales, AT&T Entertainment Group. "Watching 4K UHD video makes waiting, working out and watching sports more enjoyable." 4K Ultra HD content set to be available for customers and patrons visiting businesses with 4K UHD DirecTV access will include live sports and concerts. Previous sporting and music events broadcast in Ultra HD through DirecTV in 2016 included The Masters at Augusta National, MLB games, NCAA Football, UFC fights, PGA tournaments, the Rio Olympics, an NBA game, the Country Music Awards, and a Garth Brooks concert. Businesses interested in offering live 4K Ultra HD content through DirecTV will need to: - Upgrade to the DIRECTV COMMERCIAL XTRA PACK /BUSINESS XTRA PACK package or higher, which includes 4K UHD account authorization and professional installation - Upgrade to the latest DIRECTV HR54 Receiver - Offer access to either a DIRECTV 4K UHD Ready TV or a compatible 4K UHD TV connected to the DIRECTV C61K 4K client In addition to expanded Ultra HD support, AT&T also recently launched its new DirecTV Now streaming service. The stand-alone subscription platform offers live channels and demand content through various supported tablets, smartphones, media players, and TVs. Programming packages start at $35 per month. Likewise, users can add HBO and Cinemax for an additional $5 each per month. Source: AT&TPosted Wed Dec 28, 2016 at 08:30 AM PST by: -
Netflix Renews 'Fuller House' for Third Season[teaser]"Have mercy!" The Tanner family will return to Netflix for a third season.[/teaser] Netflix has announced a third season renewal for 'Fuller House.' Though an exact release date has not been announced yet, new episodes are expected to arrive in 2017. In the spinoff series, Fuller House, life can take you into unexpected directions and also back into familiar territory when veterinarian and recently widowed D.J. Tanner-Fuller finds herself living in her childhood home with younger sister and aspiring musician Stephanie Tanner and DJ’s lifelong best friend/fellow single mother Kimmy Gibbler. The women reuniting to help support one another navigate careers, parenting and relationships with the kind of love and humor you can only get from the people you grew up with. The Tanner childhood house is fuller than ever though with not only DJ’s three boys — the awkward 13-year-old Jackson, neurotic 7-year-old Max and baby Tommy Jr. — but also Kimmy’s feisty teenage daughter Ramona and Kimmy’s not so estranged ex-husband Fernando all under the same roof. Check out the season three announcement video below! Holiday wishes, answered. 🎁 Fuller House Season 3, coming 2017. pic.twitter.com/pJkRASTpBj — Fuller House (@fullerhouse) December 25, 2016 The show stars Candace Cameron Bure as D.J. Tanner-Fuller, Jodie Sweetin as Stephanie Tanner, Andrea Barber as Kimmy Gibbler, Juan Pablo Di Pace as Fernando, Soni Nicole Bringas as Romona, Michael Campion as Jackson, Elias Harger as Max, Dashiell and Fox Messitt Twins as Baby Tommy, Scott Weinger as Steve Hale, John Brotherton as Matt Harmon, and Ashley Liao as Lola. Seasons one and two of 'Fuller House' are now avalable to stream through Netflix. 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. A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: Fuller House TwitterPosted Wed Dec 28, 2016 at 07:30 AM PST by: -
Samsung Readies Three New Personalized Smart TV Services[teaser]Three new smart TV services will be revealed at CES 2017.[/teaser] Samsung has announced plans to introduce new "Sports," "Music," and "TV Plus" smart TV services. The different categories will all offer personalized content to customers based on their specific TV preferences through Samsung's Smart Hub platform. "At Samsung, one of our top priorities is ensuring that we are closely in tune with what consumers want and need from their smart devices and electronics," said Won Jin Lee, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. "With that in mind, we continue to innovate our Smart TV offering in order to provide the content experiences that our customers have come to know and expect from Samsung." The Sports service will offer game schedules, scores, and other details on one curated page through the customized Sports user interface. Likewise, Samsung plans to bolster sports related content for the service through partnerships with NBC Sports, UFC, and more. Meanwhile, the Music service will enable Smart TV customers to easily search for and identify songs on live TV or directly from television programs. In addition, the service will offer music recommendations in the preview section of the Samsung Smart Hub. Current music content partners include Spotify, iHeartRadio, Napster, Deezer, Sirius XM, Vevo, Melon, and Bugs. Finally, the TV Plus service provides access to various IP-based channels focused on premium content services, offering access to a library of available shows and movies through a Smart Electronic Program Guide. TV PLus is currently available in the US and South East Asia, and is set to expand to Europe in April 2017. Specific Samsung TV models that will support the new services have not been announced yet. All three smart TV services will be displayed at CES 2017 from January 5-9 in Las Vegas. Source: SamsungPosted Wed Dec 28, 2016 at 06:30 AM PST by: -
Hulu Signs Licensing Agreement with Walt Disney Studios for Exclusive SVOD Rights to Select Films[teaser]The streaming platform is adding a selection of Disney movies to its digital library.[/teaser] Hulu has announced its first licensing agreement for theatrical features with The Walt Disney Studios. As part of the multi-year deal, Hulu will now become the exclusive subscription video on-demand home to several Disney family favorites. "The Disney brand is synonymous with beloved movies that the whole family can enjoy," said Craig Erwich, SVP, Head of Content, Hulu. "Expanding our offering of top-rated kids and family programming has been a top priority for us, and we know viewers will love watching these films over and over again on our service." Disney movies now available to stream exclusively through Hulu include films like 'The Nightmare Before Christmas,' 'Mulan,' 'Pocahontas,' 'Hercules,' 'Sister Act,' and 'Air Bud.' Likewise, in the coming months, over 50 additional Disney titles will be made available to stream on Hulu for first time, including 'Con Air,' 'Step Up,' 'Gone in 60 Seconds,' 'Pearl Harbor,' 'Romy and Michele's High School Reunion,' 'The Mighty Ducks,' 'Lilo & Stitch,' 'Tarzan,' 'The Emperor's New Groove,' 'Muppet Treasure Island' and 'The Princess and the Frog.' Beyond the new Disney theatrical releases, Hulu previously made a deal with The Disney-ABC Television Group for top-rated kids programming from Disney's suite of networks and more than 20 Disney Channel Original Movies. In addition, the streaming platform recently launched support for user profiles and Ultra HD streaming. With the new profile feature, each Hulu account can now add up to six specific profiles, offering a personalized experience for different members of the household. Meanwhile, Hulu's initial lineup of 4K streaming titles includes original series like 'Shut Eye,' 'Chance,' 'The Path,' and '11.22.63,' along with more than 20 James Bond movies, including 'Spectre,' 'Die Another Day,' and 'Golden Eye.' Hulu 4K streaming is currently supported through the PS4 Pro and the Xbox One S. More Ultra HD content and support for more devices will be added throughout 2017. A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials or $12 per month for ad-free playback. A Hulu live streaming platform is also planned to launch in early 2017 with content expected from Turner Networks, Fox, ABC, ESPN, FX, and the Disney Channel. Source: HuluPosted Tue Dec 27, 2016 at 04:45 PM PST by: -
Netflix Debuts Trailer for Comedy Special 'Jen Kirkman: Just Keep Livin'?'[teaser]The upcoming stand-up show will start streaming next month.[/teaser] Netflix has released a trailer for its latest original comedy special 'Just Keep Livin'?' starring comedian Jen Kirkman. The show will arrive exclusively through Netflix on January 3. Incisive comic Jen Kirkman gets real about women's bodies, the value of alone time and an Italian private tour guide who may have been a ghost. Check out the official trailer below! In addition to 'Jen Kirkman: Just Keep Livin'?', Netflix is also currently streaming the comedian's 2015 comedy special, 'Jen Kirkman: I'm Gonna Die Alone (And I Feel Fine)', as well. The show delivers some sharp, hilarious truths about life at 40 as filmed at the North Door in Austin, Texas. 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 Tue Dec 27, 2016 at 03:30 PM PST by: