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This Week in Gear: New Pioneer Stereo Receiver, 8th Gen Intel Core Processors, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including a new Pioneer receiver, Intel's latest CPUs, and expanded Alexa and Google Assistant voice support.[/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering the release of Pioneer's latest stereo receiver, the unveiling of Intel's new 8th Gen Core processors, the expansion of Alexa voice control to more Fire TV apps, and the launch of Google Assistant for Android TV. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Pioneer Releases SX-10AE Stereo Receiver Pioneer has announced the launch of its latest receiver model. The new SX-10AE is now available for a suggested retail price of $249. The stereo receiver features a Direct Energy Design and is rated for 100W per channel (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10%, 2ch Driven). In addition, the unit offers four analog audio inputs (CD, Network, Line 1, Line 2), along with Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity for wireless playback with support for A2DP and AVRCP profiles, and SBC and AAC codecs. Likewise, the device includes an AM/FM tuner with 40 pre-sets. Here's a full rundown of key specs and features per Pioneer: ›› Application Type: Direct Energy ›› Analog Discrete 2ch Amplifier ›› 45 W/ch (8 ohms, 20-20 kHz, THD 0.1 %, 2ch Driven, FTC) ›› 100 W/ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10 %, 2ch Driven) ›› Screw Type Speaker Terminals Compatible with Thick Cables ›› Direct Mode for Pure Sound Output as Originally Intended ›› THD: 0.08 % ›› S/N Ratio: LINE In, SP Out 100 dB ›› Tone Controls: Bass (100 Hz)/Treble (10 kHz): ±10 dB ›› Frequency Response: DIRECT 10 Hz-100 kHz, +1 dB/-3 dB ›› Bluetooth® Wireless Technology (Ver. 4.2, Profile: A2DP/AVRCP, Codec: SBC/AAC) ›› AM/FM Tuner with 40 Station Presets ›› Preset Station Naming (Up to 10 Characters) ›› Speaker A/B Selector ›› FL Display ›› Sleep Timer ›› Auto Standby Source: Pioneer Intel Reveals 8th Gen Intel Core Desktop Processors Intel has detailed its latest lineup of Core Desktop CPUs. The new 8th Gen Intel Core Processor collection ranges from Intel Core i3 to Intel Core i7 models, offering improved gaming and multimedia performance. "We are laser-focused on giving the enthusiast community the ultimate desktop experience, from chart-topping performance to a platform that can flex with their needs," said Anand Srivatsa, general manager of the Desktop Platform Group at Intel. "Our 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors deliver tremendous improvements across the board and – for gamers, in particular– offer an unbeatable experience." The lineup includes the first-ever 6-core Intel Core i5 desktop processor and first-ever 4-core Intel Core i3 desktop processor, along with the flagship Intel Core i7-8700K which is Intel’s best gaming desktop processor ever. And in addition to improved performance for games, the 8th Gen Intel Core CPUs also offer support for advanced 4K Ultra HD playback. Here's a rundown of key 4K Ultra HD features per Intel: • HEVC 10-bit encode/decode, VP9 10-bit decode: – Delivering smooth streaming of premium 4K UHD entertainment to your PC from leading online providers. – Providing full-size, screen-immersive viewing experiences with 4K video and 360-degree viewing. – Enabling incredible 4K video creation and sharing with ease. • High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Rec. 2020 (Wide Color Gamut): – For life-like luminesces to provide enhanced image and video viewing experiences. Intel's new lineup of 8th Gen Core Desktop CPUs will be available starting October 5. Sources: Intel via Business Wire, Intel Amazon Set to Expand Fire TV App Support for Alexa Voice Control Amazon has announced plans to add Alexa Voice control to more video apps through the Fire TV. Apps set to receive voice support include: Hulu, SHOWTIME, Sony's PlayStation Vue, CBS All Access, NBC, Bravo, CNBC, and NBC News. While no firms launch date has been announced for the expanded Alexa support, Hulu has announced a fall release window for the update, which will make the streaming service one of the first 3rd-party entertainment platforms to support Alexa. With Alexa voice support for Hulu via the Fire TV, customers will be able to use their Alexa voice remotes to find, launch, and control content on Hulu app. Likewise, users will also be able to pair their Fire TV to an Echo device to enable hands-free, far-field voice control for several actions, including pause, rewind, fast-forward. Amazon's newest Fire TV is now available for pre-order for $70. Units are expected to start shipping on October 25. The updated model features a new compact design and support for support for up to 60fps 4K Ultra HD playback with HDR and Dolby Atmos audio. Source: Hulu via Engadget, Amazon Google Assistant Arrives on Android TV Google has announced the launch of its Google Assistant feature for Android TV. The update is now available for the NVIDIA Shield TV and is set to expand to Sony Bravia TVs in the coming months. With Google Assistant for NVIDIA Shield TV, users can now access content, control playback, check news, order products, control smart home devices, and more all through voice commands with the Shield TV remote. Supported video apps include YouTube, Netflix, and HBO Now, and supported music services include apps like YouTube Music, Google Play Music, Spotify, and Pandora. The 16GB NVIDIA Shield TV Remote Only Edition is now available for pre-order for $179 with an expected ship date of October 18. Meanwhile, the 16GB Shield TV with remote and gaming controller is available for $200, and the 500GB Shield TV Pro model is available for $300. Source: GooglePosted Sun Oct 1, 2017 at 03:30 PM PDT by: -
Coming Soon to Streaming: Stephen King's '1922,' 'Red Oaks,' 'Voltron,' and More[teaser]New trailers, casting additions, and catalog title acquisitions are among the latest streaming updates.[/teaser] Netflix and Amazon have released new trailers and other info for several of their upcoming shows and movies, including The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected), Voltron: Season 4, 1922, The Killer, BoJack Horseman, and Red Oaks: Season 3. Likewise, Hulu has announced the addition of Sean Penn to the cast of its upcoming series, The First, along with the acquisition of several catalog titles to its streaming library, including 30 Rock, Will & Grace, Boy Meets World, Home Improvement, Dinosaurs, and more Check out a full rundown of the latest streaming news and trailers below: The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) (Netflix, October 13) - From writer/director Noah Baumbach, The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) is the emotional, and comic intergenerational tale of adult siblings (Adam Sandler, Ben Stiller, and Elizabeth Marvel) contending with the long shadow their strong-willed father (Dustin Hoffman) has cast over their lives. With an original screenplay by Baumbach, the film also stars Emma Thompson, Grace Van Patten, Adam Driver, Candice Bergen, Judd Hirsch, and Rebecca Miller. The film was produced by Scott Rudin, Baumbach, Lila Yacoub, and Eli Bush. Voltron: Season 4 (Netflix, October 13) - Five unsuspecting teenagers are transported from Earth into the middle of a sprawling intergalactic war and become pilots for five robotic lions in the battle to protect the universe from evil. Only through the true power of teamwork can they unite to form the mighty warrior known as Voltron: Legendary Defender. In season four, with Shiro back at the Castleship, Keith makes a choice that causes a rift between him and Team Voltron. As Allura and team focus on building the Voltron Coalition, Prince Lotor’s plans start to take shape. 1922 (Netflix, October 20) - Based on Stephen King's 131-page story telling of a man's confession of his wife's murder. The tale is told from the perspective of Wilfred James, the story's unreliable narrator who admits to killing his wife, Arlette, with his son in Nebraska. But after he buries her body, he finds himself terrorized by rats and, as his life begins to unravel, becomes convinced his wife is haunting him. Starrs Thomas Jane, Molly Parker, Dylan Schmid, Kaitlyn Bernard, Brian d’Arcy James and Neal McDonough. Written and Directed by Zak Hilditch The Killer (Netflix, November 10) - In a lawless land, Shaggy (Diogo Morgado), investigates the whereabouts of the bandit, Seven Ears (Deto Montegro). His search leads him back to civilization and ensures that in death, he finally learns how to live. His journey will bring him to discover that his violent past is a legacy that refuses to die alongside him. Directed by Marcelo Galvão (Colegas, A Despedida), The Killer is the first Netflix original film produced in Brazil. Netflix has also announced a fifth season renewal for BoJack Horseman. The show stars Will Arnett as the voice of BoJack, the failed legendary ‘90s sitcom star from the favorite family sitcom Horsin’ Around, who has been trying to find his way through a muddle of self-loathing, whisky and failed relationships. Now, in the presence of his human sidekick Todd (Aaron Paul) and his feline agent and ex-paramour Princess Carolyn (Amy Sedaris), BoJack is primed for his comeback. Red Oaks: Season 3 (Amazon Prime Video, October 20) - A coming-of-age comedy set in the "go-go" 80s about a college student enjoying a last hurrah before summer comes to an end--and the future begins. In season three, Summer '87 finds David in the Big Apple, working at a video production company, and striking out with the ladies of New York. Luckily he's got roommate Wheeler to help cheer him up. But Wheeler's got his own problems, with the appearance on the scene of a handsome rival for Misty's affections. Meanwhile Nash brings an incarcerated Getty news of a threat to the future of their beloved Red Oaks. Meanwhile, Hulu has announced the addition of Sean Penn to the cast of The First. The upcoming original series is a co-production between Hulu and Channel 4, and comes from creator and executive producer by Beau Willimon (House of Cards, Ides of March). Set in the near future, The First will follow the first human mission to Mars exploring the challenges of taking the first steps toward interplanetary colonization. The story focuses not only on the astronauts, but also on their families and loved ones, as well as the ground team on Earth. "I have such deep admiration for Sean’s immense talent and extraordinary body of work," said Willimon. "I feel very lucky to be collaborating with an artist of his caliber." The First is set to start streaming through Hulu in 2018. In addition, Hulu has also announced a new deal with NBCUniversal Television. As part of the agreement, Hulu is now the exclusive SVOD home to all episodes of 30 Rock and the first eight seasons of Will & Grace. Likewise, the deal also includes streaming rights for Parenthood (all episodes start streaming early 2018), Made in Chelsea (complete series later this year), and SYFY's Face Off (first 10 seasons in early 2018), along with Paul Reiser's new series, There's Johnny. Finally, Hulu and Disney-ABC Television Group have signed a new agreement as well, making Hulu the exclusive US subscription video-on-demand source for all episodes of Boy Meets World, Home Improvement, and Dinosaurs. - A current Netflix subscription starts at $10 per month for HD streaming and $12 per month for Ultra HD streaming. - A current Amazon Prime subscription costs $99 per year or $11 per month. Likewise, Prime Instant Video is available as a standalone service for $9 per month. - A current Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month Sources: Netflix (YouTube), Amazon (YouTube), HuluPosted Sat Sep 30, 2017 at 01:30 PM PDT by: -
Pioneer and Onkyo Prep Dolby Vision Firmware Update for Select 2016 A/V Receivers[teaser]Several 2016 A/V components will receive Dolby Vision support before the end of the year.[/teaser] Pioneer and Onkyo have announced plans to release a Dolby Vision HDR firmware update for select 2016 A/V models. The update is set to be available by the end of December. Dolby Vision is an advanced display and image mastering technology that offers expanded brightness to improve contrast between dark and light aspects of an image, bringing out deeper black levels and more realistic details in specular highlights -- like the sun reflecting off of an ocean -- in specially graded Dolby Vision material. In order to passthrough Dolby Vision video content from connected Ultra HD Blu-ray players, set-top boxes, and streaming devices, 2016 Pioneer and Onkyo components will need to download the upcoming firmware update. Here's a rundown of 2016 Pioneer and Onkyo A/V models set to receive the Dolby Vision firmware update: Onkyo A/V Receivers & Pre-Amp - TX-NR555 - TX-NR656 - TX-NR757 - TX-RZ610 - TX-RZ710 - TX-RZ810 - TX-RZ1100 - TX-RZ3100 - PR-RZ5100 Pioneer Elite A/V Receivers - VSX-LX101 - VSX-LX301 - SC-LX501 - SC-LX701 - SC-LX801 - SC-LX901 Pioneer A/V Receivers - VSX-831 - VSX-1131 Meanwhile, current Pioneer and Onkyo A/V devices already equipped with Dolby Vision support include: Onkyo - TX-NR676 - TX-NR575 - TX-RZ920 - TX-RZ820 - TX-RZ720 - TX-RZ620 - TX-NR777 Pioneer - Elite SC-LX502 - Elite VSX-LX302 - Elite VSX-LX102 - VSX-932 - VSX-832 In addition to Pioneer and Onkyo, Integra also recently announced plans to release a Dolby Vision firmware update for select A/V devices before the end of the year. Sources: Onkyo, PioneerPosted Fri Sep 29, 2017 at 12:30 PM PDT by: -
BenQ Releases LK970 4K Laser Projector[teaser]A new Ultra HD projector has been detailed.[/teaser] BenQ has announced its newest projector model. The upcoming LK970 4K Laser Projector is geared toward use for large-venue applications, home cinemas, and living rooms. "With our LK970, we've combined 4K with our powerful BlueCore laser engine to raise the bar on brightness performance and installation flexibility," said Johnny Huang, projector product manager at BenQ America Corp. "The result is an incredibly clear, bright and vibrant picture for a variety of environments. The picture quality is so impressive, even in ambient light, that not only can it be used as an incredible home theater centerpiece but also in challenging pro AV scenarios, including commercial simulations, digital imaging, mapping and immersive gallery displays." The projector uses BenQ's BlueCore Laser technology along with Texas Instruments' latest DLP 4K UHD DMD chip with 2716 x 1528 (4.15 million) micromirrors and a dual color wheel. While the device does not technically offer traditional 4K projection, the unit does support 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution through XPR fast-switching technology, enabling the projector to double its resolution to 8.3 million distinct pixels for each frame. In addition, the LK970 is rated for 5,000 ANSI-lumens of brightness, making it ideal for environments with high amounts of ambient light. With that said, the press release makes no mention of HDR (high dynamic range) support. Here's a full rundown of key features per BenQ: - Advanced 4K BlueCore Laser Technology- High Brightness of 5000 ANSI Lumens- Finely-Craft 4K Optical Lens- 360° and Portrait Projection- H/V Lens Shift and 1.5 Big Zoom The BenQ LK970 4K Laser Projector is now shipping for an MSRP of $12,999. Source: BenQPosted Fri Sep 29, 2017 at 11:40 AM PDT by: -
Integra Reveals New A/V Components with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X[teaser]Four new A/V products have been detailed.[/teaser] Integra has announced the latest additions to its A/V lineup. The upcoming collection includes the HDB-RX1 4K HDBaseT Receiver; DRC-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Controller; DRX-R1.1 11.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver, and the DRX-7.1 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver. The new Dot 1 Series AV receivers and controller all offer support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based audio formats, along with Chromecast built-in/Google Assistant voice control, DTS Play-Fi multi-room tech, and 4K HDR passthrough with Dolby Vision compliancy. The DRC-R1.1 is a THX Certified Ultra 11.2-channel A/V controller with audio processing for 7.2.4 channels. Meanwhile, the DRX-R1.1 is an 11.2-channel THX Certified Select network receiver with 140W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven, FTC). Finally, the DRX-7.1 is a 9.2-channel THX Certified Select receiver with 140W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels driven, FTC), and 11.2 multi-channel pre-outs for up to 7.2.4 support with an external 2-channel amp. In addition, Integra is also prepping the HDB-RX1 4K HDBaseT Receiver. The device allows users to transmit uncompressed 4K / 60 p / 4:4:4 video, including HDR10 and Dolby Vision content, at a full 18GB per second to existing AVR or A/V processors through new-generation 4K HDR HDBaseT LAN and HDCP 2.2-compliant HDMI output. Pricing has not been announced for the new Integra lineup. but all four products are set to launch in late fall. And beyond the aforementioned models with integrated Dolby Vision support, Integra has announced plans to release a Dolby Vision firmware update for the following devices by the end of the year: - DRC-R1 11.2-channel Network AV Pre-Amp - DRX-R1 11.2-channel Network AV Receiver - DRX-7 9.2-channel Network AV Receiver - DRX-5 7.2-channel Network AV Receiver - DRX-4 7.2-channel Network Receiver - DRX-3 7.2-channel Network Receiver - DRX-2 7.2-channel Network AV Receiver Source: IntegraPosted Thu Sep 28, 2017 at 05:00 PM PDT by: -
Amazon Announces New Echo Product Lineup with Alexa Support[teaser]Several new Echo devices have been detailed.[/teaser] Amazon has announced the upcoming launch of its updated Echo lineup. The collection includes the 2nd-Generation Echo, Echo Plus, Echo Connect, and Echo Spot. "Three years ago we introduced the first Echo, powered by Alexa, with a goal to fundamentally simplify and improve the way customers interact with their homes," said Tom Taylor, Senior Vice President, Amazon Alexa. "Today, Alexa can make calls, play music in every room, turn on your lights, and even order you a pizza. But it's still day one, and today we're making Echo and Alexa even better. The all-new Echo and Echo Plus deliver better sound, all new far-field technology, and new features we think customers will love." The new Echo features an updated, compact design with an upgraded speaker architecture, a dedicated tweeter, a 2.5" down-firing woofer, and Dolby processing to deliver 360 degree omnidirectional audio. In addition, the device uses the company's second generation far-field technology, offering improved wake word processing, beamforming technology, and enhanced noise cancellation. Supported music services include Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, and more. Amazon's 2nd Generation Echo is now available for pre-order for $100. Shipments will begin on October 31. The Echo Plus features a built-in smart home hub, allowing customers to easily connect their smart devices. Users can simply say, "Alexa, discover my devices," and the Echo Plus will automatically find and set up compatible lights, locks, plugs, switches, and more without any additional hubs or apps, with support for a variety of ZigBee products from brands like Philips Hue, GE, Kwikset, and more. Likewise, the unit also incorporates enhanced 360 degree omni-directional audio with Dolby processing, along with music playback support from services like Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, and more. Amazon's Echo Plus is now available for pre-order for $150 with a Philips Hue smart lightbulb included while supplies last. Shipments are expected to launch on October 31. The Echo Connect is a new Alexa accessory that allows users to turn their Echo into a hands-free speakerphone for their existing landline or VoIP home phone service, enabling users to call contacts and answer incoming calls through voice commands. Amazon's Echo Connect is now available for pre-order for $35. Units are set to ship on December 13. The Echo Spot is a new compact Alexa device with a circular screen and second generation far-field technology with four microphones, acoustic beam-forming technology, and enhanced noise cancellation. Ideal for nightstands, desks, or kitchen counters, the Spot offers support for Alexa voice commands, smart alarm clock features, calendars, shopping lists, smart home control, and video playback for news, weather, and more. Likewise, the unit includes a front-facing camera and built-in 2W speaker for video calls. In addition, users can connect external speakers to the Echo Spot through Bluetooth or a 3.5mm stereo cable. "Echo Spot combines the popular small design of Echo Dot, the display of Echo Show, and the features you love about Alexa into an all-new, stylish and compact device," said Tom Taylor, Senior Vice President, Amazon Alexa. "See the weather, watch video news briefings, glance at your alarm clock, check on your kids, and more—we think customers will find lots of places for Echo Spot in their homes." Amazon's Echo Spot is now up for pre-order for $130. The device is set to launch on December 19. Sources: Amazon 1, Amazon 2Posted Thu Sep 28, 2017 at 10:10 AM PDT by: -
Amazon Details New Fire TV with 4K HDR Support[teaser]The latest Fire TV model has been revealed.[/teaser] Amazon has announced its newest Fire TV model. The upcoming media player is forty percent more powerful than Fire TV Stick, and offers support for 4K Ultra HD playback with HDR (high dynamic range). "The all-new Fire TV delivers a great entertainment experience with the best picture quality on a Fire TV, 4K Ultra HD, HDR, and an unbeatable selection of content – all at an affordable price," said Marc Whitten, Vice President, Amazon Fire TV. "With Alexa, the new Fire TV makes it easier to navigate content and discover great movies and TV shows, all by using your voice." Amazon's new Fire TV offers access to a growing collection of channels, apps, and Alexa skills, including over 500,000 TV episodes and movies from services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO, SHOWTIME, STARZ, Amazon Video, and more. Under the hood, the device is powered by an Amlogic Quad-core 1.5GHz processor and Mali450 MP3 GPU, along with 2GB of memory, dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and 8 GB of storage. The player also features a new compact dongle-like design that fits behind a user's TV. In addition, the unit includes support for up to 60fps 4K Ultra HD playback with HDR and Dolby Atmos audio (though there is no mention of Dolby Vision compatibility). An Alexa Voice Remote is included as well, allowing customers to find, launch, and control content through voice commands. Likewise, customers can also pair the new Fire TV to any of their Echo devices to enable hands-free, far-field voice control powered by Alexa. The new Fire TV is now available for pre-order for $70. Units are expected to start shipping on October 25. Source: AmazonPosted Wed Sep 27, 2017 at 12:40 PM PDT by: -
McIntosh Reveals MHA50 Portable Decoding Amplifier with $700 MSRP[teaser]The amplifier is designed to improve the quality of portable music through headphones.[/teaser] McIntosh has announced its latest audio component. The new MHA50 Portable Decoding Amplifier is set to start shipping in October for a suggested retail price of $700. The amplifier features a sleek and light-weight design built primarily from durable extruded aluminum with a form factor similar to a smartphone. A glass front panel with a touch sensitive volume control knob reminiscent of the classic McIntosh knob found on several of the company's other products is integrated as well. Under the hood, the MHA50 uses a high-performance 32-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), improving playback quality from almost any digital source. Likewise, the unit supports 32-bit/192kHz hi-res audio, DSD256 and DXD384 files, and asynchronous USB audio. A 3,000 mAh rechargeable battery is integrated as well, providing up to 6 hours of use on a single charge when connected through Bluetooth or even longer playback through a wired connection. Wired inputs for Apple iOS devices and Android devices compatible with USB On-The-Go technology are built-in, along with support for Mac and Windows computers. In addition, the amplifier can also wirelessly connect to playback deices via Bluetooth 4.1 with aptX technology. Thanks to the device's two gain settings, the MHA50 has been designed to work with all headphone types, including small in-ear models and large over-ear studio models via a gold plated 3.5mm jack. The unit can drive headphones with impedances ranging from 8-600 ohms. An optional Headphone Crossfeed Director (HXD) setting is also offered to add dimension to music. In addition, the MHA50's output jack can connect to powered desktop speakers as well for stationary use as a desktop DAC. The MHA50 Portable Decoding Amplifier includes three USB adapter cables, a leather carrying case, and a wall mount charger with USA plug and adapters for Europe and Japan. Source: McIntoshPosted Wed Sep 27, 2017 at 07:35 AM PDT by: -
LG Set to Integrate Comcast Xfinity Cable Access into 2017 & 2018 webOS Smart TVs[teaser]Xfinity users with select LG displays will soon be able to ditch their cable boxes.[/teaser] Comcast and LG have announced the addition of LG to the Xfinity Partner Program. As part of the agreement, Xfinity subscribers will be able to access their cable service through the Xfinity TV Partner app on 2017 and 2018 LG webOS Smart TVs. "With our award-winning webOS user experience, Comcast customers will be able to take advantage of an easy-to-use interface and fast application performance on 2017 and 2018 webOS-enabled TVs," said Matt Durgin, Head of Content Innovation for LG Electronics USA. "Working with Comcast will bring these experiences to our customers so they can seamlessly enjoy their favorite content on our award-winning 4K Ultra HD TV line-up without the need for a set-top box." The Xfinity TV Partner app on LG displays will use open standard HTML5 technology, allowing subscribers to watch live and on demand programming via the X1 guide over Comcast's secure private managed network, including access to local broadcast and Public, Educational and Governmental channels, and cloud DVR recordings -- all directly through their TVs without the need to lease a separate Comcast set-top box. "We remain committed to giving Xfinity TV customers more options for watching their favorite programming in the home, so we’re thrilled to partner with LG to bring our app to their TVs," said Michael Gatzke, Vice President, Video Subscription Services, Comcast Cable. "We recognize that today's consumers are looking for more choices in how, when and where they access their entertainment, and via partners like LG we can expand the range of devices they can use in the home to do just that." A beta launch of the Xfinity TV Partner app for LG Smart TVs is expected to roll out early next year, starting with webOS 2017 models. Source: LGPosted Tue Sep 26, 2017 at 08:30 AM PDT by: -
This Week in Gear: Netflix Brings Dolby Vision Support to iPhones, NVIDIA Lowers Shield TV Price, and More[teaser]We've compiled the latest gear news, including the launch of Netflix Dolby Vision support for iOS mobile devices and a price reduction for the NVIDIA Shield TV.[/teaser] From product announcements and streaming app updates to general industry news and recent gear trends, keeping up with the latest tech news can be a daunting task. With that in mind, we're here to offer you a roundup of some of the latest gear and consumer electronics news that you may have missed. For this edition, we're covering the arrival of Dolby Vision support for Netflix on select iOS mobile devices, a cheaper base price for the NVIDIA Shield TV media player, and Hulu updates for Roku products. So, without further ado, here's a rundown of some of the latest gear and tech news: Netflix Launches Dolby Vision Streaming on New iPhone Models Netflix has announced the addition of mobile Dolby Vision HDR (high dynamic range) streaming playback for the Apple iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, and iPad Pro (2nd generation). The new devices join the LG G6 as the only mobile products to currently support Dolby Vision through Netflix. Beyond Dolby Vision, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8, LG V30, Sony Xperia XZ1, and Sony Xperia XZ Premium all support HDR10 Netflix playback. In order to watch Dolby Vision streaming content on the newly supported mobile devices, users will need the latest Netflix app and the newest version of iOS. Likewise, subscribers will need the premium $12 per month Netflix plan. Dolby Vision is an advanced display and image mastering technology that offers expanded brightness to improve contrast between dark and light aspects of an image, bringing out deeper black levels and more realistic details in specular highlights -- like the sun reflecting off of an ocean -- in specially graded Dolby Vision material. The iPhone 8 features a 4.7-inch widescreen LCD IPS Multi-Touch Retina display with a resolution of 1334x750, 326 ppi, wide color, and 1400:1 a contrast ratio. Meanwhile, the iPhone 8 plus features a 5.5-inch widescreen LCD IPS Multi-Touch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1920x1080, 401 ppi, and a 1300:1 contrast ratio. Finally, the iPhone X features a Super Retina HD 5.8-inch all-screen OLED Multi-Touch display with a resolution of 2436x1125-pixel, 458 ppi, wide color, a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, and 625 cd/m2 max brightness. Under the hood, all three models are powered by an A11 Bionic chip with 64-bit architecture, Neural Engine, and an Embedded M11 motion coprocessor. Dolby Vision, and HDR10 playback are all supported as well, along with 4K video recording and optimization for augmented reality. The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus are available now in the US with prices starting at $699. The iPhone X will launch on November 3 with prices starting at $999. Sources: Netflix via Engadget NVIDIA Reduces Shield TV Media Player Starting Price NVIDIA has announced a new cheaper option for its NVIDIA Shield TV media player. Previously, the device was available at a starting price of $200 with a gaming controller and remote, but now the company is set to offer a $179 option that only includes the remote. The Shield TV features support for up to 4K HDR playback at 60 FPS, along with Dolby Atmos and DTS-X surround sound pass through over HDMI and high-resolution audio playback up to 24-bit/192 kHz over HDMI and USB. Under the hood, the device is powered by an NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor with a 256-core GPU and 3 GB RAM running Android 7.0. Supported services include Amazon, Netflix, YouTube, Google Play Movies, VUDU, Plex, and more. In addition, the system offers robust gaming capabilities, voice search, and several AI functions. The new 16GB NVIDIA Shield TV Remote Only Edition is now available for pre-order for $179 with an expected ship date of October 18. Meanwhile, the 16GB Shield TV with remote and gaming controller is available for $200, and the 500GB Shield TV Pro model is available for $300. Sources: NVIDIA via Engadget Hulu Brings Live TV Streaming and Updated Interface to Roku Devices Hulu has announced the launch of its new Live TV Beta and updated User Interface on the Roku platform. The new UI features support for creating personal profiles along with improved navigation features, including Home, My Stuff, Browse, and Search categories. Meanwhile, the Hulu with Live TV beta costs $40 per month and combines a live/on-demand TV service with Hulu's standard streaming collection. The Live service includes access to content from ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC, with local live broadcast affiliate programming immediately available in many markets; live sporting events from top pro and college leagues on channels like CBS Sports, ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports and TNT; regional sports networks in many markets; news channels like CNN, CNBC, Fox News, Fox Business and MSNBC; lifestyle programming from Bravo, E!, Food Network, HGTV and Travel Channel; additional networks like A&E, Cartoon Network/Adult Swim, Disney Channel, Freeform, FX, HISTORY, Lifetime, National Geographic, TBS, USA Network, Viceland, and more. Likewise, Live TV subscribers also get to enjoy Hulu's existing $8 premium streaming plan with limited commercials and more than 3500 TV and film titles. In addition, users can subscribe to add-on packages for HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime. Roku devices with support for the new Hulu interface and Live TV beta include: - Roku Streaming Stick (3600)- Roku Express- Roku Express+- Roku Premiere+- Roku Premiere- Roku Ultra- Roku 3- Roku 4- All Roku TV models The Hulu Live TV Beta is also currently available on the Xbox 360, Apple TV, Xbox One, iOS and Android mobile devices, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and Fire TV Stick. A current standard Hulu subscription starts at $8 per month with commercials. In addition, ad-free playback is available for $12 per month. Source: HuluPosted Sat Sep 23, 2017 at 08:55 PM PDT by:
