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VIZIO Adds XUMO to VIZIO SmartCast App Lineup[teaser]The live and video-on-demand service is now part of the VIZIO SmartCast family.[/teaser] VIZIO has announced the addition of XUMO to its collection of VIZIO SmartCast-enabled apps. XUMO now joins previously released VIZIO SmartCast-enabled apps like Vudu, Crackle, Hulu, Pluto TV, iHeartRadio, FandangoNOW, and Google Play Movies & TV. "The VIZIO SmartCast app gives consumers instant access to an ever-expanding library of content options available through our partners," said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. "We're excited for our latest integration with XUMO which offers VIZIO customers even more entertainment options from the app’s premium collection of OTT channels." XUMO offers more than 70 premium OTT channels, including Time Inc.'s People/Entertainment Weekly Network (PEN) and Sports Illustrated, Tastemade, Refinery29, FailArmy, The Pet Collective from Jukin Media, Funny Or Die, Outside TV Shorts and more. The VIZIO SmartCast app allows users to control their VIZIO SmartCast devices from any room in the home and stream content from their mobile devices straight to the big screen. SmartCast users can also search and browse content by genre across multiple apps at once, allowing customers to browse through titles from XUMO alongside catalogs from other popular apps. In addition, the newly improved app now offers a faster all-around content aggregation experience with quicker load times and speedier search results. The VIZIO SmartCast app is available for download on iOS and Android smartphones or tablets, and comes preinstalled on the 2016 P-Series and M-Series Android Tablet Remotes. "By prioritizing the consumer's choice and allowing them the option to stream content whenever and wherever they like, XUMO is helping make entertainment simple again," said Colin Petrie-Norris, CEO, XUMO. "The deep integration of XUMO into the VIZIO SmartCast app arms users with another effortless way to consume their favorite shows, movies and live streams by casting content directly to the SmartCast display." The VIZIO SmartCast ecosystem includes the company's 2016 P-Series, M-Series, and E-Series 4K Ultra HD Displays, as well as several soundbar models.Posted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 10:30 AM PST by: -
Comcast Now Supports HBO Go & WatchESPN Streaming Through PS4 Consoles[teaser]Comcast subscribers can now access HBO Go and WatchESPN apps on their PS4 systems.[/teaser] Sony has announced the arrival of HBO Go and WatchESPN streaming access for PS4 owners with Comcast Xfinity cable subscriptions. Previously, Comcast restricted its customers from using these streaming apps on the PS4. With HBO Go through the PS4, Comcast Xfinity users with an HBO subscription can now watch every episode of every season of HBO’s original programming, hit movies, documentaries, sports, and exclusive comedy specials through their consoles. This includes current popular shows like 'Westworld,' 'Divorce,' 'Insecure,' 'Ballers,' 'Girls,' and 'Game of Thrones,' along with movies like 'Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice,' 'The Revenant,' 'Deadpool,' 'Joy,' 'The Martian,' 'Ride Along 2,' 'Sisters,' 'Straight Outta Compton,' and more. Beyond the PS4, Comcast previously added HBO Go streaming support for Amazon Fire TV and Roku devices. Meanwhile, WatchESPN through the PS4 allows authenticated Comcast users to stream live ESPN content from ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, ESPN Deportes, SEC Network, SEC Network +, Longhorn Network, ACC Network Extra and ESPN Goal Line, Buzzer Beater and Bases Loaded through their consoles. Likewise, the app also offers ESPN Classic on demand content and free access to short form video clips. "WatchESPN on PlayStation 4 strengthens the value of the video subscription by delivering multiplatform accessibility to live and on-demand sports content on yet another streaming device," said Sean Breen, senior vice president, affiliate sales for Disney and ESPN Media Networks. "Gaming consoles have historically attracted significant engagement in minutes consumed for WatchESPN, and with today’s launch, the app increases its distribution footprint to reach fans on the most widely adopted platforms." Sources: PlayStation Twitter via EngadgetPosted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 09:30 AM PST by: -
Apple Launches Single Sign-On Feature for Apple TV & iOS Devices[teaser]Users now only have to sign in once to enjoy select pay-TV apps.[/teaser] Apple has announced the launch of its single sign-on feature for pay-TV apps. The new option is available for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Apple TV (fourth generation) in the US. With the new single sign-on feature, subscribers to supported pay-TV providers and platforms can now sign-in once on their Apple device to enjoy immediate access to numerous apps that are part of their overarching pay-TV subscription. In order to use the single sign-on option on the Apple TV (with tvOS 10 or later), users simply need to go to Settings, select Accounts, and then click on TV Provider. From there, customers can choose their TV provider and sign in with their account information. Likewise, users with an iOS device (iOS 10 or later) simply need to navigate to Settings, click on TV Provider, select their provider, and then enter their account info. Here's a rundown of currently supported pay-TV providers: - CenturyLink Prism- DirecTV- Dish- GVTC- GTA- Hawaiian Telcom- Hotwire- MetroCast- Service Electric- Sling And here's a rundown of currently supported video apps: - ABC (iOS and tvOS)- A&E (iOS only)- Bravo Now (tvOS only)- Disney Channel (iOS and tvOS)- Disney Junior (iOS and tvOS)- Disney XD (iOS and tvOS)- E! Now (tvOS only)- Freeform (iOS)- FXNOW (tvOS)- Hallmark Channel Everywhere (iOS and tvOS)- History (iOS only)- Lifetime (iOS only)- NBC (tvOS only)- Syfy Now (tvOS only)- Telemundo Now (tvOS only)- USA NOW (tvOS only)- Watch HGTV (iOS and tvOS)- Watch Food Network (iOS and tvOS)- Watch Cooking Channel (iOS and tvOS)- Watch DIY (iOS and tvOS)- Watch Travel Channel (iOS and tvOS) Supported apps might differ based on which TV provider is being used. Source: Apple via EngadgetPosted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 08:30 AM PST by: -
Google Releases Crimson & Snow Daydream View Headsets, Adds New VR Apps Including HBO Now[teaser]New Daydream View headset colors and VR apps are now available.[/teaser] Google has announced the release of limited edition Crimson and Snow Daydream View models in the US, UK, and Australia. The new colors join the previously released Slate version. In addition, several new apps have also launched for the Daydream platform, including VR editions of HBO Go and HBO Now. Unlike most VR headsets, the Daydream View is made with flexible and soft breathable fabrics, allowing the device to be 30% lighter than similar products while providing added comfort. Likewise, the headset has also been designed to fit over glasses. To use the Daydream View, customers simply need to drop in a Daydream-ready smartphone (like the Google Pixel) and lock it into place. From there, the phone and headset connect wirelessly with an auto alignment system. In addition, the product includes a compact controller packed with sensors, letting customers interact with content through movements and gesture. And when not in use, the controller can slide right inside the headset for easy storage. When it comes to content, the Daydream VR platform offers a growing collection of virtual reality apps from over 50 partners, including the recent addition of HBO Go and HBO Now. With the HBO apps for Daydream, users can now watch every episode of every season of original series like 'Game of Thrones' and 'Westworld,' along with iconic favorites and popular films on a virtual big screen. HBO Go requires an authenticated pay-TV subscription while HBO Now is a standalone subscription service. Beyond HBO, the Daydream platform now supports the NextVR app as well, offering live concerts, sports, and events in virtual reality. Likewise, Netflix support is expected to arrive by the end of the year. Finally, several new games, including 'Gunjack 2' and 'LEGO® BrickHeadz,' are also available now. The new Crimson and Snow Daydream View models are available from the Google Store in the US (coming soon to Verizon, Best Buy) for $79. Source: GooglePosted Fri Dec 9, 2016 at 07:30 AM PST by: -
Sony Preps Two OLED Ultra HD TVs for 2017 Release, Prices Could Start at $1,999[teaser]The company's first big screen OLED TVs are set to arrive next year.[/teaser] According to a report from Forbes, Sony is set to release two OLED Ultra HD TV models in 2017. The launch will include a 55-inch and a 65-inch model. The information comes from Barry Young, CEO of the OLED Association, who confirmed the news to Forbes. Young also revealed that Sony plans for shipments to start in the second quarter of 2017 with sales expected to begin in the third or fourth quarter. In addition, the company is projecting shipments of 80,000 55-inch 4K OLED TV models and 120,000 65-inch 4K OLED TV models. Official pricing has not been announced yet, but according to Young the 55-inch model is expected to retail for $1,999 and the 65-inch model is expected to sell for $2,999 -- potentially placing Sony's debut OLED sets at a more mass market friendly price point than competing units from LG and Panasonic. Outside of Sony's upcoming 55-inch and 65-inch models, the only big screen Ultra HD OLED displays currently available in the US come from LG. OLED technology offers superior black levels and viewing angles over traditional LCD screens. Here's a rundown of LG's current 2016 OLED lineup: OLEDB6P – Flat-panel OLED 4K Smart TV with HDR 55-inch class (54.6 inches diagonal) model OLED55B6P ($2,297) 65-inch class (64.5 inches diagonal) model OLED65B6P ($3,297) OLEDC6P – Curved-panel OLED TV (4K Smart TV with HDR) - 55-inch class (54.6 inches diagonal) model OLED55C6P ($2,297) - 65-inch class (64.5 inches diagonal) model OLED65C6P ($3,297) OLEDE6P – Flat-panel OLED TV (4K Smart TV with HDR and Picture-on-Glass design) - 55-inch class (54.6 inches diagonal) model OLED55E6P ($2,797) - 65-inch class (65.5 inches diagonal) model OLED65E6P ($3,997) - Full review here! OLEDG6P – Flat-panel LG SIGNATURE OLED TV (4K Smart TV with HDR, Picture-on-Glass design and harmon/kardon® sound bar stand) - 65-inch class (64.5 inches diagonal) model OLED65G6P ($7,997) - 77-inch class (76.8 inches diagonal) model OLED77G6P ($19,999) More details on Sony's first big-screen OLED Ultra HD TVs are expected to be revealed on January 5-8 at CES 2017 in Las Vegas. Source: ForbesPosted Thu Dec 8, 2016 at 08:30 PM PST by: -
Apple Discussing Early iTunes Movie Rentals with Hollywood Studios[teaser]The company is reportedly working to offer new rentals sooner to customers.[/teaser] According to a report from Bloomberg, Apple is in talks with several Hollywood studios about the possibility of providing earlier rental access to new movies on iTunes. Potential studios interested in offering premium priced early rentals include 21st Century Fox Inc., Warner Bros. and Universal Pictures. Traditionally, new releases have an exclusive theatrical window for 90 days or more before they are allowed to be made available on Blu-ray, DVD, and digital platforms. But reports indicate that several studios are now investigating earlier rental options, with some open to offering home rentals as soon as two weeks after a film's theatrical premiere. Bloomberg's sources reveal that talks are currently in place with Apple about distributing these early rentals through the company's iTunes digital service. With that said, there are several potential partners in the digital distribution realm that could be viable fits for early rental access, and it's possible that the studios may end up going with a different venue. Of paramount concern to studios, is whether or not iTunes can provide the anti-piracy encryption necessary to ensure secure rentals. Though specifics are still being determined, early rental prices could be as high as $25 to $50. Outside of Apple, Napster's Sean Parker has proposed a new video service, dubbed Screening Room, for early home access to current theatrical releases. Screening Room hopes to offer new releases at home on the same day that they premiere theatrically, and the platform uses watermarking technology to deter piracy by making it possible to track down the source of any potential leaks. There's no word on when a deal with Apple or any other digital platform might be reached, and for now talks with interested studios remain ongoing. Source: BloombergPosted Thu Dec 8, 2016 at 12:15 PM PST by: -
Bluetooth 5 Spec Officially Launches, Offers Improved Wireless Performance for Connected Devices[teaser]The latest Bluetooth spec has been adopted.[/teaser] The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has announced the official launch of the Bluetooth 5 core specification. Performance updates include a longer range, faster speeds, larger broadcast message capacity, and improved interoperability and coexistence with other wireless tech, ensuring an advance Internet of Things (IoT) experience. "Bluetooth is revolutionizing how people experience the IoT. Bluetooth 5 continues to drive this revolution by delivering reliable IoT connections and mobilizing the adoption of beacons, which in turn will decrease connection barriers and enable a seamless IoT experience," said Mark Powell, Executive Director of Bluetooth SIG. The Bluetooth 5 spec offers four times the range, two times the speed, and eight times the broadcast message capacity over the previous Bluetooth spec. This means that Bluetooth 5 connections can now cover larger areas like whole homes and buildings with more reliable connections, provide faster speed for more responsive, high performance devices, and send more data. In addition, the new spec has also been optimized to reduce potential interference with other wireless technologies. Likewise, the new spec still maintains Bluetooth's low energy functionality and developer flexibility. "The global wireless connectivity market is growing rapidly, with an anticipated 10 billion annual IC shipments by 2021," said Andrew Zignani with ABI Research. "The introduction of Bluetooth 5 will create new opportunities in various verticals of the IoT market by reducing complexity and cost and giving manufacturers greater flexibility in targeting multiple applications and use cases." Specific products with Bluetooth 5 support have not been announced yet, but the first devices with Bluetooth 5 are expected to arrive within the next two to six months. Source: BluetoothPosted Thu Dec 8, 2016 at 10:45 AM PST by: -
Dolby Exceeds 2,000 Dolby Atmos Enabled Cinema Screens & 500 Released Movie Titles[teaser]The immersive audio format continues to expand to more theaters and films.[/teaser] Dolby has announced two milestones for its Atmos audio technology, including the installation of 2,000 Dolby Atmos enabled cinema screens and the release of 500 movie titles mixed in Dolby Atmos. The object-based surround sound format first debuted in 2012 with the release of Disney•Pixar's 'Brave.' "When Brave was released in 2012, Dolby Atmos enabled us to bring audiences into the rich and fantastic world of Merida through their execution of previously inaccessible soundscapes," said Mark Andrews, writer and director of Disney•Pixar’s Brave. "Dolby Atmos enables our creatives at Pixar to tell stories with sound, taking audiences across new dimensions of entertainment. As one of the first to use Dolby Atmos, we have witnessed this platform’s steady growth and value as an essential element for the next-generation filmmaker." Dolby Atmos object-based audio allows filmmakers to precisely place and move effects anywhere in a three-dimensional space, creating an immersive surround sound experience with overhead audio. The technology is also a part of Dolby Cinema, which incorporates the Dolby Vision laser projection system to deliver high dynamic range images with expanded colors and enhanced contrast. Currently, there are more than 50 Dolby Cinema locations around the globe. "Dolby has made its mark on what consumers can expect from a powerful sound experience, and Dolby Atmos continues to shape the future of entertainment for any environment," said Curt Behlmer, Senior Vice President of Content Solutions and Industry Relations, Dolby Laboratories. "Dolby Atmos is considered the preferred sound format by many who look to deliver the best in sound to the cinema, in the home, or on the go, and the possibilities are endless." In addition to theatrical exhibition, Dolby Atmos is also used in home theater, PC, mobile devices, video games, and virtual reality. More than 20 titles are now available through streaming-service providers like Vudu; more than 150 titles on Blu-ray Disc have a Dolby Atmos soundtrack; more than 60 percent of the Ultra HD Blu-ray titles released so far include the format; more than 75 AVR and home-theater-in-a-box (HTiB) products are available; more than 45 sound bar and speaker models by more than 20 speaker manufacturers are on the market; more than 35 mobile devices support Dolby Atmos; three games include Dolby Atmos support on PC; and gaming consoles will soon support Dolby Atmos for Blu-ray. "By breaking the link between sound design and specific speaker layout, Dolby Atmos has really opened up the creative use of sound to deliver more immersive entertainment experiences," said Avi Greengart, Research Director for Consumer Platforms and Devices, Current Analysis. Source: DolbyPosted Wed Dec 7, 2016 at 08:30 AM PST by: -
Netflix Reveals Second Trailer for 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' Starring Neil Patrick Harris[teaser]Count Olaf will arrive on Netflix in January.[/teaser] Netflix has released a second trailer for its latest original show, 'A Series of Unfortunate Events.' The series stars Neil Patrick Harris and is set to premiere exclusively through Netflix on January 13. Based on the internationally best-selling series of books by Lemony Snicket (aka Daniel Handler) and starring Emmy and Tony Award winner Neil Patrick Harris, A Series of Unfortunate Events recounts the tragic tale of the Baudelaire orphans -- Violet, Klaus, and Sunny – whose evil guardian Count Olaf will stop at nothing to get his hands on their inheritance. The siblings must outsmart Olaf at every turn, foiling his many devious plans and disguises, in order to discover clues to their parents' mysterious death. The eight-episode series is a Netflix original production, executive produced by Emmy Award winner Barry Sonnenfeld and Daniel Handler, and premieres January 13, 2017 only on Netflix. Check out the new trailer below! 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' also stars Patrick Warburton (Lemony Snicket), Joan Cusack (Justice Strauss), Malina Weissman (Violet Baudelaire), and Louis Hynes (Klaus Baudelaire). Other upcoming Netflix premieres include 'Fuller House' season two on December 9, 'Barry' on December 16, 'Gabriel lglesias: I'm Sorry For What I Said When I Was Hungry' on December 20, 'Travelers' on December 23, 'David Brent: Life on the Road' on February 10, and 'Iron Fist' on March 17. Likewise, the streaming platform is also prepping 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,' Spike Lee's 'She's Gotta Have It,' and a feature film adaptation of the manga 'Death Note.' A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 for HD streaming and $12 for Ultra HD streaming. Source: NetflixPosted Wed Dec 7, 2016 at 07:45 AM PST by: -
Motor Trend OnDemand Debuts Mike Musto's 'The House of Muscle'[teaser]The automotive SVOD/OTT service has added a new streaming show.[/teaser] TEN: The Enthusiast Network has announced the premiere of its latest Motor Trend OnDemand series, Mike Musto's 'The House of Muscle.' The first episode premiered on December 1. The House of Muscle takes a deep look inside the world's continued obsession with muscle cars. Each month, the show's host, YouTube sensation Mike Musto, will travel the U.S. and beyond showcasing how these automobiles—and their die-hard owners—help shape the face of today’s automotive culture. Every car has a past, and every owner a story. From homebuilt customs to priceless rolling works of art, Musto not only profiles the cars and their place in history, he takes these amazing machines on a no-holds-barred testdrive. The first few episodes will take viewers on a 2,500-mile road trip from Los Angeles to Detroit via lots of Dodge muscle cars—and one very special van. Then, Musto will introduce you to a one-off private fleet of Chevy Novas before getting behind the wheel of an old-school Plymouth Belvedere, which just may be the world’s greatest Q car/street sleeper. "We have created a show for muscle car fans around the world that showcases old and new muscle cars and what they mean to their often-fanatical owners," says Musto. "I’m excited to welcome viewers to join us as we explore The House of Muscle." The Motor Sport OnDemand service offers more than 1,500 hours of automotive content, including original programming, motorsports, and historical archives. Likewise, Motor Trend OnDemand provides exclusive first-look access, bonus episodes, and behind-the-scenes footage from its popular lineup of original programming like 'Roadkill,' 'Head 2 Head,' 'Dirt Every Day,' 'Ignition,' 'Hot Rod Garage,' and more. Motor Trend OnDemand is available as a standalone app for Xbox One, Xbox 360, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Roku, and Android devices, as well as the web. Likewise, the service is also available as an add-on subscription for Amazon Prime members. Sources: Motor Trend OnDemandPosted Wed Dec 7, 2016 at 07:15 AM PST by:
