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HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Soundbar Systems[teaser]For a limited time, Amazon is offering up to 31 percent off select soundbars![/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing electronics sales and promotions, Amazon is running limited time deals on several soundbar models from Philips and Yamaha. Philips CSS2123B/F7 SoundBar - Currently $90 (31 percent off). Philips HTL2111A/F7 Bluetooth Soundbar - Currently $70 (30 percent off). Philips HTL2160/F7 Bluetooth Soundbar - Currently $95 (14 percent off). Yamaha YAS-152BL Soundbar - Currently $250 (29 percent off). Yamaha YSP-1400BL Soundbar - Currently $350 (22 percent off). As always, these deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Mon Jul 14, 2014 at 04:30 PM PDT by: -
Hulu to Stream South Park[teaser]The popular animated series will now stream exclusively through Hulu's service. [/teaser] Hulu and South Park Digital Studios have detailed a new agreement that will give Hulu Plus the exclusive streaming rights to the Comedy Central cartoon. The deal covers every episode of the hit show, including its upcoming 18th season. "'South Park' has revolutionized TV and pushed boundaries with unparalleled topicality and daring humor," said Craig Erwich, Head of Content, Hulu. "'South Park' has been one of the top ten most popular shows of all time on the platform. We're thrilled to offer the series to fans in its entirety." As part of the three year agreement, every previous season of the show will be available for free streaming on Hulu from now until September 24 when the new season premieres. After that date, viewers will get next-day streaming for new season 18 episodes on Hulu and Hulu Plus. Likewise, SouthPark.cc.com will keep streaming the show's back catalog until the new season begins. After that, the site will only offer new episodes and a select collection of thirty classic episodes. In addition, Hulu will now run the streaming and advertising system for SouthPark.cc.com. "This is a natural partnership for us," said Matt Parker and Trey Stone, creators of 'South Park.' "We are excited that the entire library will be available on Hulu and that the best technology around will power South Park Digital Studios." Hulu Plus currently costs $7.99 per month. The streaming service is available on a variety of smart TV platforms and media players, including the Amazon Fire TV, Roku 3, Apple TV and Chromecast. Sources: Business Wire via EngadgetPosted Mon Jul 14, 2014 at 01:30 PM PDT by: -
Apple TV Now Offers iTunes Extras[teaser]Apple TV users can now access iTunes special features for purchased movies. [/teaser] Apple has announced that the latest iTunes update adds support for iTunes Extras on the Apple TV. Owners of the set-top box can now enjoy movie bonus features on select titles. With iTunes Extras, customers gain access to movie supplements like commentaries, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and deleted scenes. The option was previously only available to desktop users, but with iTunes 11.3 and the 6.2 version of the Apple TV software, support has been expanded to the company's streaming media player. The additional special features will automatically be added to any previously purchased HD titles. Likewise, movie studios are now free to add more special features to existing titles at any time in the future. While Apple TV support is a welcome upgrade, iOS devices like the iPhone and iPad still don't have access to iTunes Extras. Thankfully, Apple promises that Extras will be added to these devices with the launch of iOS 8. The Apple TV is currently on sale for $93. Sources: Engadget, The VergePosted Fri Jul 11, 2014 at 02:00 PM PDT by: -
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LG Continues Development of Flexible Displays[teaser]The company has created an 18-inch rollable display and has plans to develop larger flexible screens as well. [/teaser] LG has announced that it has successfully developed a flexible 18-inch OLED screen. The display is capable of being rolled up into a cylinder shape with a radius of 3cm. "LG Display pioneered the OLED TV market and is now leading the next-generation applied OLED technology. We are confident that by 2017, we will successfully develop an Ultra HD flexible and transparent OLED panel of more than 60 inches, which will have transmittance of more than 40 percent and a curvature radius of 100R, thereby leading the future display market." said In-Byung Kang, Senior Vice President and Head of the R&D Center at LG Display. Though currently just a prototype, the screen features a resolution of 1200x810 with almost million mega-pixels and uses an OLED panel. Likewise, the display uses a high molecular substance-based polyamide film instead of plastic on the backplane of the screen, allowing it to gain more flexibility. In addition to the rollable panel, LG has also created a transparent OLED prototype which offers three times the transmittance of traditional transparent LCD screens offering a clearer picture with less haze. There's no word on when these flexible panel technologies will start making their way to consumers, but fixed curved screen displays are currently being pushed by many manufacturers in televisions and smartphones. Source: LGPosted Fri Jul 11, 2014 at 12:30 PM PDT by: -
Roku Remains Most Popular Streaming Player[teaser]A new report indicates that Roku reigns supreme as the top selling and most-used streaming media player in the US. [/teaser] According to a study conducted by Parks Associates, Roku media players made up about 46 percent of all streaming media player purchases in the US throughout 2013. In contrast, Apple made up about 26 percent of sales. Likewise, the company also accounts for 44 percent of actual streaming media player usage in US broadband homes, while competitor Apple accounts for just 26 percent. "Multiple factors have allowed Roku to outpace Apple in U.S. sales and usage," said Barbara Kraus, director, research, Parks Associates. "Roku has always had a close association with Netflix, the largest source of video downloads, and currently offers more than 1,700 channel apps as well as a choice of models with different features and price points, all of which appeal to consumers' purchasing instincts. With Amazon entering this CE category, there will be renewed pressure on all players to develop the best combination of 'can't miss' content with a simple and intuitive interface. " Meanwhile, the company also predicts that more than 25 percent of US homes will have a streaming media player by 2015 and that global sales of streaming media players will reach almost $50 million by 2017, thanks in part to continued popularity and new devices like the Amazon Fire TV ($99). The Roku 3 is currently on sale for $95 and the Apple TV is currently on sale for $102, though rumors persist that Apple is working on a new set-top box for release later this year. Source: Parks Associates via Market WatchPosted Thu Jul 10, 2014 at 05:00 PM PDT by: -
TiVo Releases Summer Software Update[teaser]Several new features have arrived on TiVo's Roamio and Premiere DVRs. [/teaser] TiVo has detailed its latest software update for its line of DVRs. The update offers several upgrades for TiVo users, including faster performance and new categories for sorting content. TiVo Roamio owners can now automatically organize the content in their "My Shows" section by type, allowing their media to be categorized into different sections for TV series, movies, kids shows, sports, and more. Likewise, the new update also adds support for on-demand and web options within the guide, expanding browsing beyond just live TV. In addition, TiVo Premiere users will also get an improved interface and faster speeds when navigating through menus. The summer 2014 update is now available. The TiVo Roamio is currently on sale for $170, the TiVo Roamio Plus is on sale for $325, and the TiVo Roamio Pro is on sale for $500. Source: TiVo via EngadgetPosted Thu Jul 10, 2014 at 03:30 PM PDT by: -
ZTE Launches First Smart Projector[teaser]The unique portable HD projector offers a mobile hotspot, a 4-inch screen, and Android support. [/teaser] ZTE has announced pricing and availability for its smart projector, dubbed the LivePro. The hybrid device lets users project media and connect to the internet, and will be available exclusively through Sprint. "Since 1985, ZTE’s mission has been to provide affordable communication to everyone with innovation as a core driver in achieving that mission. The all-in-one projector is a pioneering product and demonstrates ZTE's ability to deliver," said Lixin Cheng, chairman and CEO of ZTE USA. "The ability to develop one device with a wide range of components brings the idea of affordable premium to light. Combining a projector, mobile hotspot, and power bank with the popular Android interface, in a portable, compact device not only makes sense for overall convenience but also for overall cost." The LivePro is capable of projecting a 1080p image at up to 120 inches and is powered by a 1.2GHz dual-core processor running Android 4.2. Likewise, the device features a compact, portable design measuring just 4.7 x 4.7 x 1.1 inches, and includes a built-in speaker and an integrated 4-inch touchscreen. USB and HDMI ports are included as well and the projector also offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LTE Network support for playing and streaming media from various sources. In addition, customers can also connect up to eight other mobile devices to the projector's Sprint 4G LTE Spark network or Wi-Fi connection. ZTE's LivePro will be available through Sprint on July 11 for a suggested retail price of $450. Source: ZTE, EngadgetPosted Wed Jul 9, 2014 at 06:00 PM PDT by: -
Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet Dated & Detailed[teaser]Sony and Verizon have announced pre-order information for the HD waterproof tablet. [/teaser] After first revealing the device at the Mobile World Congress back in February, Sony has now set an official US release date for its Xperia Z2 tablet. The product will be available exclusively with Verizon Wireless and pre-orders will go live on July 10. "From our Xperia Z2 Tablet and accessories, to exclusive Sony content and experiences, we're pleased to be working with Verizon to bring a strong Sony proposition to their customers. This newly forged relationship with Verizon is an exciting proof point as we continue to build momentum in the U.S." The Xperia Z2 Tablet features a 10.1-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920x1200. In addition, the screen uses Live Colour LED and TRILUMINOS technology for improved color depth and a wider gamut. The device is powered by a Snapdragon 801 2.3GHz quad-core processor, 3GB of RAM, an Adreno 330 GPU, and a 6000mAh battery that is rated for 10 hours of multimedia use. An 8.1MP rear camera and a 2.1MP front camera are included as well. Finally, the Z2 is said to be the slimmest and lightest waterproof tablet, measuring just 6.8 x 10.47 x 0.25 inches and weighing 15.49 oz. Pre-orders will begin tomorrow on Verizon's website. The suggested retail price is set at $600, and for a limited time users will also be able to purchase the tablet with a two year activation for $500. Likewise, those who pre-order will receive a free MDR-NC31EM Digital Noise Cancelling Headset while supplies last, and all customers will also receive an exclusive entertainment bundle that includes six movies, an early access pass for 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2' when it becomes available for digital download, and 90 days of free music streaming through Sony's "Music Unlimited" service. The tablet is expected to ship on July 17. Source: SonyPosted Wed Jul 9, 2014 at 04:30 PM PDT by: -
HDD Gear Deal Spotlight: Samsung HDTVs[teaser]For a limited time, Amazon is offering up to 49 percent off select Samsung HDTVs! [/teaser] As part of the online retailer's ongoing electronics sales and promotions, Amazon is running limited time deals on several curved-screen and flat-screen Samsung HDTVs. Samsung UN46F7500 46-Inch 1080p TV - Currently $1,130 (47 percent off). Samsung UN60F7500 60-Inch 1080p TV - Currently $1,724 (49 percent off). Samsung UN48H8000 Curved 48-Inch 1080p TV - Currently $1,798 (20 percent off). Samsung UN55H8000 Curved 55-Inch 1080p TV - Currently $1,998 (20 percent off). Samsung UN65H8000 Curved 65-Inch 1080p TV - Currently $2,798 (18 percent off). As always, these deals will only be active for a limited time while supplies last. Make sure to stay tuned to High-Def Digest for more sales and special promotions!Posted Tue Jul 8, 2014 at 05:30 PM PDT by: -
Music Vault Bolsters Concert Collection on YouTube[teaser]The updated YouTube channel now offers users thousands of exclusive concert performances. [/teaser] Music Vault and YouTube have announced the addition of 12,000 new concert videos to the streaming media website. The massive collection of music clips features a wide array of classic artists and contemporary bands. Catering to all tastes, Music Vault offers concert performances from an eclectic assortment of musicians including Bob Marley, The Who, Neil Young, Ray Charles, Lou Reed, Santana, The Roots, James Brown, Bob Dylan, Metallica, and many more, spanning fifty years of music. Likewise, the collection features a mix of rare shows and popular concerts which have all been restored and mastered from thousands of archive tapes over the last two years. Music Vault's YouTube Channel now includes more than 13,000 concert clips which adds up to over 2,000 hours of music. The company also plans to provide regular video features, playlists, and original content for YouTube. Source: CNET, YouTubePosted Tue Jul 8, 2014 at 01:00 PM PDT by:
