Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget HD http://www.engadgethd.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Hulu to PlayStation 3 browsers: "This video is not available on your platform"]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/27/ps3-owners-get-boxeed-hulu-this-video-is-not-available-on-yo/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/27/ps3-owners-get-boxeed-hulu-this-video-is-not-available-on-yo/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/27/ps3-owners-get-boxeed-hulu-this-video-is-not-available-on-yo/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The PlayStation 3 has kept access to Hulu even without PlayOn or other workaround while others were blocked -- with the exception of its own remote friendly desktop software -- thanks to its browser's Flash support, but this morning multiple users have reported the above message indicating "Unfortunately, this video is not available on your platform. We apologize for any inconvenience." Some odd glitch related to the recent 2.80 firmware update or other temporary problem, or is this the latest platform to get the Boxee treatment when trying to bring streaming video to TV screens? We've reached out to Hulu for an explanation but so far, haven't heard a response. Interestingly, the Hulu TOS was just updated as of June 26, and although we haven't found any PS3-specific passages, changing a browser's user-string to match the console reveals it is definitely being specifically blocked.

[Thanks Sev, and to Tyler from FormatWarCentral.com for the picture]

Hulu to PlayStation 3 browsers: "This video is not available on your platform" originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sat, 27 Jun 2009 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockbreaking newsBreakingNewsflashhuluinternet videoInternetVideoplaystation 3Playstation3ps3streaming videoStreamingVideoSat, 27 Jun 2009 06:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharp LCD panels banned from US import until further notice]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/24/sharp-lcd-panels-banned-from-us-import-until-further-notice/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/24/sharp-lcd-panels-banned-from-us-import-until-further-notice/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/24/sharp-lcd-panels-banned-from-us-import-until-further-notice/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chalk up another huge win for Samsung in its long-running patent dispute with Sharp: the US International Trade Commission has just issued a ruling banning importation of Sharp LCD panels that infringe one of Samsung's viewing-angle patents. As you might imagine, the ban covers a wide swath of Sharp's consumer products, including the Aquos TV line, but it's not clear on how it'll affect other companies that use Sharp panels -- this ruling could potentially have a huge impact on the entire tech market. On the other hand, we'd bet that Sharp's lawyers are furiously putting together a request to have the ban delayed while an appeal is sorted out, so this is far from over -- in fact, we'd say the real fireworks are just beginning.

Sharp LCD panels banned from US import until further notice originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsinternational trade commissionInternationalTradeCommissionitclawsuitlcdlcd displaylcd panelLcdDisplayLcdPanellegalsamsungsharpus international trade commissionus itcUsInternationalTradeCommissionUsItcWed, 24 Jun 2009 16:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Pictures to smarten up Blu-ray with MovieIQ, the "killer app for BD-Live"]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/18/sony-pictures-to-smarten-up-blu-ray-with-movieiq-the-killer-ap/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/18/sony-pictures-to-smarten-up-blu-ray-with-movieiq-the-killer-ap/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/18/sony-pictures-to-smarten-up-blu-ray-with-movieiq-the-killer-ap/#commentsFiled under:


Are you one of the more than 4,000 people (86%) that answered our poll saying you thought BD-Live was a waste of time, or didn't see any reason to give it a shot? We talked to Sony Pictures recently and were promised that more useful reasons for hooking the internet to Blu-ray discs & players were on the way, and today at a press event it showed why it thinks that will come true. Check out the gallery for a few pics of its new MovieIQ app, quickly described as a "wiki for movies" that can tie into your discs and provide information from Gracenote on demand on nearly anything in the movie or even specific scene being watched, from actors & directors to background music. The first BD-Live discs with it should be available in September, we'll be back with more details shortly, for now just let the images do the talking.

Update: Official press release is included after the break

Continue reading Sony Pictures to smarten up Blu-ray with MovieIQ, the "killer app for BD-Live"

Sony Pictures to smarten up Blu-ray with MovieIQ, the "killer app for BD-Live" originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bd-liveblu-raybreaking newsBreakingNewsgracenotemovie iqMovieIqsonysony picturesSonyPictureswikiThu, 18 Jun 2009 19:22:00 EST<![CDATA[LG 15-inch OLED TV on sale in December]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/17/lg-15-inch-oled-tv-on-sale-in-december/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/17/lg-15-inch-oled-tv-on-sale-in-december/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/17/lg-15-inch-oled-tv-on-sale-in-december/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We knew that LG's 15-inch OLED TV was entering into production this summer, now we've got a ship date: December. This according to an interview with Won Kim, LG's VP of OLED sales and marketing. While 15-inches is small, it easily trumps the world's first production OLED TV, Sony's $2,500 11-inch XEL-1, and is a reasonable size for the bedroom (if you must) or kitchen counter. No word on specs but we expect the production set to offer the same million:1 contrast, 1,366 x 768 pixel resolution, and 30,000-hour shelf life as the prototype unveiled in January. The TV will launch first in Korea for an undisclosed price that is bound to be punishingly expensive.

LG 15-inch OLED TV on sale in December originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 06:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15-inchbreaking newsBreakingNewskorealgoledWed, 17 Jun 2009 06:07:00 EST<![CDATA[NEC CRV43: 43-inches of curve on sale July]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/04/nec-crv43-43-inches-of-curve-on-sale-july/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/04/nec-crv43-43-inches-of-curve-on-sale-july/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/04/nec-crv43-43-inches-of-curve-on-sale-july/#commentsFiled under: ,

See that? All 43-inches of this curved NEC monitor with 2880x900 pixel resolution can be yours in July. Ok, it'll cost you $7,999 but it's, well, it's curved! The CRV43, first spotted at CES in January 2008 and again on video in 2009 (where it was expected to cost $6,499), measures in with a 200 nits brightness rating, 10,000:1 contrast, 0.02ms "Rapid Response," covers 99.3% of Adobe RGB color gamut, and packs at least one USB2.0 jack and DVI-D and HDMI 1.3 connectors. Unfortunately, gaming is not listed amongst its targeted uses so you'll be on your own to find a release supporting the CRV43's 32:10 aspect ratio. Unfortunately, there's some junk in that trunk so deftly hidden by the glamor shot above. See what we mean after the break.

Continue reading NEC CRV43: 43-inches of curve on sale July

NEC CRV43: 43-inches of curve on sale July originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 01:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2880x900breaking newsBreakingNewscrv43curvecurvedcurved displayCurvedDisplaynecWGXAThu, 04 Jun 2009 01:53:00 EST<![CDATA[DISH / EchoStar DVR injunction temporarily put on hold by court]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/03/dish-echostar-dvr-injunction-temporarily-put-on-hold-by-court/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/03/dish-echostar-dvr-injunction-temporarily-put-on-hold-by-court/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/03/dish-echostar-dvr-injunction-temporarily-put-on-hold-by-court/#commentsFiled under:

It's the case that never ends -- the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has issued a temporary delay of the injunction and fine handed down yesterday in the EchoStar / TiVo lawsuit while it considers an appeal, meaning that DISH owners with older DVRs won't have to worry about losing their pause-and-rewind functionality at least for now. That pretty much means we're back in stasis with this one, with even more delay to come if the appeal is granted. That's cool, we needed a nap anyway.

DISH / EchoStar DVR injunction temporarily put on hold by court originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsdishdish networkDishNetworkdvrechostarlawsuitlegalpatenttime shiftingTimeShiftingtivoWed, 03 Jun 2009 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/06/01/xbox-live-gets-live-tv-streaming-netflix-browsing/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Microsoft is busy announcing a slew of upgrades to Xbox Live, and the biggest news so far is relaunch of the video service, now Zune-branded with 1080p instant-on streaming content in 18 countries. XBL is also now integrated with Facebook -- your Facebook account can be linked to your Gamertag, and games will support Facebook Connect for sharing content online. That's pretty huge -- but if that wasn't enough, you're also getting Twitter and Last.fm in the deal. Want more? Netflix users will now be able to browse the entire catalog instead of simply loading their queue, and Microsoft has also gotten its Party Watch system in order, so you'll be able to heckle videos with your online friends. Last but not least, there's now live TV streaming for UK and Ireland gamers, who'll get Premier League soccer live from Sky. All in all, a solid set of updates for XBL -- but we'll wait and see how that "1080p" video looks before we pronounce Blu-ray dead. PR blurb after the break.

Continue reading Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration

Xbox Live gets 1080p Zune video store, Netflix browsing, Twitter and Facebook integration originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360breaking newsBreakingNewse3e3 2009E32009facebookfacebook connectFacebookConnectiptvlsat.fmmicrosoftnetflixparty watchPartyWatchskytwitterxblxboxxbox 360Xbox360zunezune marketplaceZuneMarketplaceMon, 01 Jun 2009 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Vizio sues Funai for patent infringement, seeks to stop TV imports]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/20/vizio-sues-funai-for-patent-infringement-seeks-to-stop-tv-impor/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/20/vizio-sues-funai-for-patent-infringement-seeks-to-stop-tv-impor/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/20/vizio-sues-funai-for-patent-infringement-seeks-to-stop-tv-impor/#commentsFiled under: ,


In the latest episode of this ongoing saga Vizio (now feeling its oats enough to claim the "Number One Shipper of Flat Panel HDTVs in the USA" title) is again suing Funai for patent infringement and seeking an injunction barring Funai from importing and selling its HDTVs. Just in case that wasn't etherous enough, Vizio cofounder Laynie Newsome chimed in with a line to make Funai's soul burn slow, pointing out that unlike some companies, Vizio's patent portfolio has not been rejected by the USPTO. We don't know how realistic it is that shipments of Funai's Sylvania, Philips, Magnavox and other branded products could be stalled by the action -- note Funai's so far ineffective action on Vizio's products -- but hopefully this latest strike brings things closer to a resolution and more cheap televisions for all.

Vizio sues Funai for patent infringement, seeks to stop TV imports originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 20 May 2009 21:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsfunaiinfringementlawsuitpatentusptovizioWed, 20 May 2009 21:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix Watch Instantly comes to Vista Media Center, not Extenders]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/20/netflix-watch-instantly-comes-to-vista-media-center-not-extende/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/20/netflix-watch-instantly-comes-to-vista-media-center-not-extende/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/20/netflix-watch-instantly-comes-to-vista-media-center-not-extende/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Good news, Vista Media Center PC users will soon find a new option under the TV+Movies tile, as Netflix Watch Instantly streaming access is added directly to the interface. The soul crushingly bad news? A post on The Green Button informs that this does not apply to Media Center Extenders, so cheapskates hoping to get around the Xbox 360's Gold Xbox Live subscription requirement are still going to need those plugins and workarounds. This should go over much better than the InternetTV beta 2, but we're disappointed Microsoft's vision of TV on Your PC (as pointed out on its accompanying blogs, videos and assorted paraphernalia indicates) doesn't allow users to stretch their PC back to the TV at will. 'til that changes, check the gallery and after the break to see what awaits in Media Center once the update rolls out over the next 48 hours.

Update: We checked with Microsoft, and confirmed that, at least for now, this streaming only includes the same content as the browser experience - so no HD. As far as Windows 7 and / or RC1 support? No word yet.

[Via The Green Button]

Gallery: Netflix on Vista Media Center

Continue reading Netflix Watch Instantly comes to Vista Media Center, not Extenders

Netflix Watch Instantly comes to Vista Media Center, not Extenders originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 20 May 2009 01:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsextenderextendersinstant watchInstantWatchinternet tvInternetTvmedia centermedia center extendermedia center pcMediaCenterMediaCenterExtenderMediaCenterPcnetflixpcstreamingvista media cneterVistaMediaCneterwatch instantlyWatchInstantlywindowsWed, 20 May 2009 01:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Dallas Cowboys record breaking 1080p display caught on video before the stadium opens]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/07/dallas-cowboys-record-breaking-1080p-display-caught-on-video-bef/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/07/dallas-cowboys-record-breaking-1080p-display-caught-on-video-bef/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/05/07/dallas-cowboys-record-breaking-1080p-display-caught-on-video-bef/#commentsFiled under: ,


It took long enough, but we've finally got video (embedded after the break) of the giant 159 x 72-foot 1080p displays facing each sideline of the new home of the Dallas Cowboys, playing back some highlights of a game vs. the Colts. We've seen the specs and the mockups of Mitsubishi's huge DiamondVision screen, but suddenly things look very different when the camera pans down and one realizes exactly how large these displays are. Once we've confirmed the stadium isn't built by the same guys that put together the team's practice bubble, we'll be making plans to head down and catch a game. Eat that, Dolphin Stadium.

[Thanks, Yaggs]

Continue reading Dallas Cowboys record breaking 1080p display caught on video before the stadium opens

Dallas Cowboys record breaking 1080p display caught on video before the stadium opens originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 07 May 2009 21:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080pbreaking newsBreakingNewscowboyscowboys stadiumCowboysStadiumdallas cowboysDallasCowboysdiamond visionDiamondVisionfootballjerry jonesJerryJonesjumbotronledmitsubishinflscorebordstadiumThu, 07 May 2009 21:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Pictures movies & TV shows pop up on YouTube]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/16/sony-pictures-movies-and-tv-shows-pop-up-on-youtube/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/16/sony-pictures-movies-and-tv-shows-pop-up-on-youtube/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/16/sony-pictures-movies-and-tv-shows-pop-up-on-youtube/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Filling a hole for premium quality content, Sony and YouTube have worked out a deal, with full length movies and TV shows popping up on the Crackle channel today. Right now Cliffhanger has top billing, and we're not seeing anything in HD yet, but hey, it's all free and unlike, for example, Hulu, will play on about a billion different platforms. Don't expect this to be the end either, word is the streaming service has signed up other studios as well but no word on which ones.

Sony Pictures movies & TV shows pop up on YouTube originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewscrackleinternet videoInternetVideosonysony picturesSonyPicturesstreamingyoutubeThu, 16 Apr 2009 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Torrent's SureConnect HDMI cables stay put with magnets, blink with madness]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/15/torrents-sureconnect-hdmi-cables-stay-put-with-magnets-blink-w/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/15/torrents-sureconnect-hdmi-cables-stay-put-with-magnets-blink-w/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/15/torrents-sureconnect-hdmi-cables-stay-put-with-magnets-blink-w/#commentsFiled under: ,


While we love the transmission capabilities of HDMI, we loath the fact that the HDMI standard doesn't specify a locking mechanism. If you've ever wall mounted a flat screen TV or tried to stuff your receiver into too tight a rack then you're probably familiar with HDMI's weak-azz connector. Now we have what appears to be a first of its kind, magnetic HDMI connector from Torrent, Inc. -- at least its the first to pass ATC compliance testing. Called MagLoc, the magnetic connector with sliding sleeve for optimal fit is said to be 5x stronger than your typical HDMI cable connector. Of course, anyone who's familiar with the magnetic "locks" on some laptop power cords can assure you that the technology is nowhere near as strong as mechanical fasteners. Still, it's a start.

Torrent's higher spec'd SureConnect Advanced and Elite cables also feature the totally over-the-top "VeriFYI" (ugh) indicator lights to confirm the end-to-end connection. VeriFYI blinks to confirm the HDMI cable you just inserted is in fact inserted -- something you should be able to confirm with the same pair of eyes looking at the jack. Insert the other side of the cable and VeriFYI will glow steady for one minute after testing the end-to-end connection. It then repeats this semi-useful (assuming your cables are easily visible) test each time you power up your system. While MagLoc sounds promising, it appears that the cables have yet to reach retail channels. We'll let you know as soon as that changes.

[Via The Inquirer and HDMI.org]

Torrent's SureConnect HDMI cables stay put with magnets, blink with madness originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewshdmihdmi cablehdmi connectorHdmiCableHdmiConnectormagnetmagnetic hdmimagnetic lockMagneticHdmiMagneticLocksureconnecttorrentWed, 15 Apr 2009 04:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Funai wins order blocking Vizio imports, Vizio maintains business as usual]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/10/funai-wins-a-round-vs-vizio-trade-commission-blocks-tv-imports/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/10/funai-wins-a-round-vs-vizio-trade-commission-blocks-tv-imports/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/10/funai-wins-a-round-vs-vizio-trade-commission-blocks-tv-imports/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Just when it looked like the long-running patent dispute was tipping Vizio's way, the U.S. International Trade Commission has ruled in favor of Funai, issuing an order to block imports of Vizio HDTVs. According to Bloomberg the ban is still eligible to be reviewed by President Obama while the patent case itself is still being reviewed by an appeals court, but if Vizio wants to keep its shipments flowing it will have to post a bond of $2.50 per television. We've put a call in to Vizio to find out what this means for its immediate future -- and that sweet LED backlit display from CES -- and confirmed that while this order goes into effect immediately, you should still be able to find sets on shelves and they will continue to do business as usual during the presidential review period, but feel free to read its press release in response after the break for more details.

Continue reading Funai wins order blocking Vizio imports, Vizio maintains business as usual

Funai wins order blocking Vizio imports, Vizio maintains business as usual originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsfunailegalpatentpatent infringementPatentInfringementsuesuitu.s. international trade commissionU.s.InternationalTradeCommissionvizioFri, 10 Apr 2009 17:14:00 EST<![CDATA[DirecTV's free iPhone app manages 100k downloads in its first week]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/07/directvs-free-iphone-app-manages-100k-downloads-in-its-first-we/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/07/directvs-free-iphone-app-manages-100k-downloads-in-its-first-we/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/07/directvs-free-iphone-app-manages-100k-downloads-in-its-first-we/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Shockingly enough, people seem to be interested in the possibility of easily browsing TV schedules and programming their DirecTV DVR from the iPhone / iPod Touch, for free. Available for just one week so far, it's already ticked over 100,000 downloads so yeah, it's popular, our only question is what's next? You've probably checked it out by now, let us know what features need to be changed or added, or just tee off on the fact that your TV or cellphone provider hasn't unveiled a similar setup yet, we're listening.

DirecTV's free iPhone app manages 100k downloads in its first week originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 20:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeAppStorebreaking newsBreakingNewsdirectvdirectv appDirectvAppiphoneiphone 3giphone app storeiphone appsIphone3gIphoneApplicationsIphoneAppsIphoneAppStorephoneTue, 07 Apr 2009 20:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Snow White's Blu-ray debut is October 6]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/03/snow-whites-blu-ray-debut-is-october-6/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/03/snow-whites-blu-ray-debut-is-october-6/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/03/snow-whites-blu-ray-debut-is-october-6/#commentsFiled under:


Announced during CES as the third title (after Sleeping Beauty and Pinnochio) to get Disney's Platinum Edition treatment, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs will appear for the first time in high definition October 6 --well ahead of the standard DVD November 24 -- and Disney prez Bob Chapek is already bragging that it will be a reference point for home entertainment libraries. Expect a major push from Disney to upsell its family customers to the HDTV edition, with the staggered release scheduling and meticulous attention paid to this release, there's no question this as much a part of the company's Blu-ray driving strategy as its Magical Tour last year. USA Today also says several Blu-ray exclusive extras will be included, but your guess is as good as ours what they are, other than the now standard for Disney $40 combo pack that includes a DVD and Pinnochio's Disney View picture frame.

Snow White's Blu-ray debut is October 6 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationbd livebd-liveBdLiveblu-raybreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsdisneydisney viewDisneyViewplatinum editionPlatinumEditionsnow whitesnow white and the seven dwarfsSnowWhiteSnowWhiteAndTheSevenDwarfsFri, 03 Apr 2009 00:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony HDR-TG5 makes world's smallest Full HD camcorder smaller, adds GPS]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/02/sony-hdr-tg5-makes-worlds-smallest-full-hd-camcorder-lighter-a/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/02/sony-hdr-tg5-makes-worlds-smallest-full-hd-camcorder-lighter-a/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/04/02/sony-hdr-tg5-makes-worlds-smallest-full-hd-camcorder-lighter-a/#commentsFiled under: ,

The problem with Sony's previous world's smallest pistol-grip Full HD camcorder -- the HDR-TG1 aka, the TG3E -- wasn't size, it was usability. So we're happy to hear that Sony's TG5 counts a tweaked UI among its updates. And although Sony doesn't say in the press release, the TG5's touch-panel looks far more sensitive (capacitive maybe?) than that of the previous generation's finger bender. The other improvements are GPS to geotag your media (assuming your software supports it), Navteq maps, improved image processing, smile shutter technology, and 16GB of built-in storage (up from 8GB) all riding inside a slightly smaller and lighter chassis. Other specs remain unchanged: 1920 x 1080 AVCHD video, 2.7-inch touchscreen display, and a 10x optically stabilized zoom exposing a 2.4 megapixel CMOS sensor. Expensive? Oh most definitely: $1,000 starting in May. Check the video after the break.

[Via CNET]

Continue reading Sony HDR-TG5 makes world's smallest Full HD camcorder smaller, adds GPS

Sony HDR-TG5 makes world's smallest Full HD camcorder smaller, adds GPS originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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All those eagerly anticipating the DirecTV iPhone application, and all its remote scheduling, program browsing capability can download it right now from the App Store. All that's required is iPhone software 2.2.1 or higher; anyone can pick it up to check out channel listings, but you'll need a DirecTV subscription and DirecTV Plus DVR (models R15, R16, R22), DirecTV Plus HD DVR (models HR20, HR21, HR23) or TiVo Series 2 receivers with 6.4a software registered to DirecTV.com to take advantage of the remote scheduling over WiFi, EDGE or 3G. And did we mention that it's free?

DirecTV iPhone app now available originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 30 Mar 2009 15:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeAppStorebreaking newsBreakingNewsdirectvdirectv appDirectvAppdvriphoneiphone 3giphone app storeiphone applicationsiphone appsIphone3gIphoneApplicationsIphoneAppsIphoneAppStoreremote schedulingRemoteSchedulingMon, 30 Mar 2009 15:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix raising rates for Blu-ray subscribers by around 20 percent]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/30/netflix-raising-rates-for-blu-ray-subscribers-by-around-20/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/30/netflix-raising-rates-for-blu-ray-subscribers-by-around-20/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/30/netflix-raising-rates-for-blu-ray-subscribers-by-around-20/#commentsFiled under: ,


Ruh roh. In a move that will undoubtedly cause an incredibly raucous stir, only to fade away as movie renters realize that Netflix is still the best deal going, America's most adored by-mail rental service is hiking the price of Blu-ray rentals once again. If you'll recall, Netflix already implemented a $1 per month fee for Blu-ray customers back in October, and now it's looking to push that premium higher by around 20 percent across its pricing tiers. The company asserts that the increase (slated to hit April 27th and only applicable to BD customers) is due to it buying more titles on BD to "accommodate the increasing number of Netflix members who prefer renting movies on Blu-ray." In fact, nearly 10 percent of all Netflix customers are choosing BD now, and obviously these platters cost quite a bit more for anyone (even Netflix) to procure. Head past the break to see how big of a hardship this will be on you.

Continue reading Netflix raising rates for Blu-ray subscribers by around 20 percent

Netflix raising rates for Blu-ray subscribers by around 20 percent originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 30 Mar 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bdblu-rayblu-ray premiumBlu-rayPremiumbreaking newsBreakingNewsnetflixpremiumpriceprice hikePriceHikepricingrentrentalsrentingMon, 30 Mar 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blockbuster OnDemand coming to TiVo]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/25/blockbuster-ondemand-comes-to-tivo-tivos-going-on-sale-at-bloc/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/25/blockbuster-ondemand-comes-to-tivo-tivos-going-on-sale-at-bloc/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/25/blockbuster-ondemand-comes-to-tivo-tivos-going-on-sale-at-bloc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Looks like TiVo's gone all Switzerland on us by announcing plans to add support for Blockbuster OnDemand to its Series3, TiVo HD and TiVo HD XL boxes -- plus the older Series2 hardware that Netflix missed. Due in the second half of 2009, the marketing deal will put TiVo's on the shelves of local rental outlets and put Blockbuster's service in front of many new users. So far its $4 per movie SD fare has failed to impress, we'll see if it can keep up with the competition when they're on the same box, while TiVo's managed to carve out a position squarely in the middle of the digital download revolution, with Blockbuster, Netflix, CinemaNow and more already available, it could be the big winner in this streaming battle, full press release is after the break.

Continue reading Blockbuster OnDemand coming to TiVo

Blockbuster OnDemand coming to TiVo originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockbusterblockbuster on demandBlockbusterOnDemandbreaking newsBreakingNewsrentalsset top boxSetTopBoxstreamingtivoWed, 25 Mar 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Logitech Harmony Adapter for PlayStation 3 gets official]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/20/logitech-harmony-adapter-for-playstation-3-get-official/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/20/logitech-harmony-adapter-for-playstation-3-get-official/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/20/logitech-harmony-adapter-for-playstation-3-get-official/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You've got to love it, don't you? Just a day after we caught wind of Logitech's Harmony Adapter for PlayStation 3 (via the always informative FCC), the aforesaid company has come forward and confessed to its plans. The good news is that the adapter is for real, and while we're still not being told too much about the device itself, we do know that it will operate with any Harmony remote and it won't take up a USB port on your console. In other words, it's a simple Infrared-to-Bluetooth converter, though it promises to give Harmony remote users "complete control (including power on / off) over the movie-watching experience on a PS3." We're pleading for more information on pricing and availability, but until that's received, just enjoy your weekend knowing that you'll be able to buy one soon enough.

Logitech Harmony Adapter for PlayStation 3 gets official originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Good news for Playstation 3 owners -- NBC and Sony have just announced that NBC Universal content is now available on the PlayStation Network. In addition to NBC shows like The Office, 30 Rock, and Heroes, new movie releases like Milk and Role Models will hit PSN day and date with the DVD release, and back-catalog titles like The 40-Year Old Virgin and The Big Lebowski should already be up. Pricing is ballpark with the competition: $2.99 to $5.99 for SD and HD rentals, and $9.99 to $14.99 for SD and HD purchases. Not bad, but we won't be happy until these fools drop the shenanigans and give us what we really want: Hulu. Make it happen, guys.

NBC Universal content now available on PlayStation Network originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsnbcnbc universalNbcUniversalplaystationplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkpsnstreaming videoStreamingVideouniversalTue, 10 Mar 2009 14:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Hulu blocks boxee browser entirely, gloves get ripped halfway off]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/06/hulu-blocks-boxee-browser-entirely-gloves-get-ripped-halfway-of/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/06/hulu-blocks-boxee-browser-entirely-gloves-get-ripped-halfway-of/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/06/hulu-blocks-boxee-browser-entirely-gloves-get-ripped-halfway-of/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As a wise man once said: "Damn, that's just cold, son." Merely hours after boxee announced its latest alpha build along with RSS feed support for Hulu, said video portal has now blocked off boxee's browser entirely from accessing its content. If you'll recall, boxee saw a huge increase in interest when it first added easy access to Hulu, and once Hulu demanded that it be removed, boxee sadly complied. The latest move just seems "cold blooded," as now boxee users who attempt to surf over via a Hulu RSS feed link will be greeted with an infinite amount of nothing. boxee is quick to point out that its browser doesn't access Hulu content "any differently" than IE, Firefox, Opera or any other browser, which does a good job of explaining just how deliberate this move is. Needless to say, we get the feeling this bout is just getting started.

[Image courtesy of ZatzNotFunny]

Update: boxee now says things are working. For the moment, anyway. Feel free to join us as we throw our hands in the air and give up on understanding this mess.

Hulu blocks boxee browser entirely, gloves get ripped halfway off originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxeebreaking newsBreakingNewshuluinternet tvInternetTvonline tvOnlineTvrssstreamstreamingFri, 06 Mar 2009 18:55:00 EST<![CDATA[JVC's new Everio X GZ-X900 does 1080p video, 9 megapixel stills, 600 fps slow motion]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/03/jvcs-new-everio-x-gz-x900-does-1080p-video-9-megapixel-stills/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/03/jvcs-new-everio-x-gz-x900-does-1080p-video-9-megapixel-stills/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/03/jvcs-new-everio-x-gz-x900-does-1080p-video-9-megapixel-stills/#commentsFiled under: ,


JVC's new "Everio X" GZ-X900 camcorder is just what we like in a flagship device: incredible style, crazy specs, and awesome slow motion video of us slapping people. The GZ-X900 reworks the Everio line into a new brick-like form factor that's bordering on the shape of camcorders of yore, but JVC puts a nice twist to it, and the camera is obviously very compact. JVC used some "premium materials" in the construction and it really shows, but what's more exciting is the high-end 1080p resolution, with 1000 "TV lines" to sample from (it's not upscaling from a completely bum source like many compact camcorders). The unit also works as a fast-action still camera, for 9 megapixel shots at 15 fps, and 5.3 megapixel shots at 60 fps. What we're really wild about is the 600 fps slow motion, which operates at a 640 x 72 resolution -- you can get more pixels at slower frame rates. Unfortunately, none of this good stuff comes cheap: the camera hits retail in June for an even $1000.

JVC's new Everio X GZ-X900 does 1080p video, 9 megapixel stills, 600 fps slow motion originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avchdbreaking newsBreakingNewscamcordereverioeverio xEverioXgz-x900jvcvideo cameraVideoCameraTue, 03 Mar 2009 16:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic's new Lumix DMC-GH1 does 1080p video in a Micro Four Thirds form factor]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/03/panasonics-new-lumix-dmc-gh1-does-1080p-video-in-a-micro-four-t/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/03/panasonics-new-lumix-dmc-gh1-does-1080p-video-in-a-micro-four-t/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/03/03/panasonics-new-lumix-dmc-gh1-does-1080p-video-in-a-micro-four-t/#commentsFiled under:


Not even a year after its Lumix DMC-G1 got all the glory as the first Micro Four Thirds camera on the market, Panasonic is back with a slightly tweaked version in the DMC-GH1. We say slightly tweaked since the exterior is more or less the same, but under the hood the camera has 1080p recording at 24 frames per second, or 720p recording at 60 fps, which the camera stores to AVCHD format. Panasonic has also included continuos auto focus, something lacking from most DSLRs with video capability. Users can set the shutter speed and aperture manually, and record stereo audio -- with an optional external mic if they so choose. The camera shoots 12.1 megapixel stills just like the G1, and now offers iPhoto-style Face Recognition in addition to Face Detection to make sure particular people are well exposed and in focus. No word yet on price or availability.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Panasonic's new Lumix DMC-GH1 does 1080p video in a Micro Four Thirds form factor originally appeared on Engadget HD on Tue, 03 Mar 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Take this as you will, but George Mead, the Marketing Manager for Digital Displays at LG Electronics UK, has informed T3 that LG Electronics UK has no intention to withdraw from the plasma TV market." To be perfectly clear here, this statement probably is in relation to UK market plans only; after all, those words from company VP Lee Gyu-hong were pretty strong. At any rate, Mead continued by noting that "we have recently implemented a bespoke strategy to promote and market plasma TVs here in the UK," but he failed to specifically touch on LG's worldwide plans (and understandably so). So yeah, it looks like LG PDPs are still safe for the moment across the pond, but we wouldn't be so sure about the rest of the developed world.

LG denies withdrawing from plasma market... in the UK, anyway originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Seriously, why aren't more companies like this? In a somewhat unprecedented move, OPPO Digital has decided to let the people choose how it will proceed with the production of its highly anticipated universal Blu-ray player. Its Early Adoption Program will allow 50 randomly selected customers to purchase the BDP-83 for $499 before the official release; after those 50 have tested things out for a week or so, they'll be required to vote on whether the program should be extended or suspended. If 70 percent or more votes to expand, OPPO will select another 100 individuals to join the original 50 in testing. We're told that the deck will be shipped with a pre-production firmware version that will be updated "from time to time." Also of note, OPPO has confirmed Profile 2.0 support, internal decoding of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio formats and that DVD-Audio playback is still in the works. Needless to say, we'll be doing our best to become one of those lucky 50. OPPO's full email on the matter is after the break.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading OPPO to start BDP-83 Early Adoption Program

OPPO to start BDP-83 Early Adoption Program originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We've no way to confirm at the moment, but if SamsungCentral is to be believed, Samsung's newly announced OmniaHD will soon become the world's first cellphone to record 720p video. Unlike the HTC Touch HD -- which had precisely zero high-def amenities -- it seems the next breed of Omnia may actually live up to its moniker. Other purported specifications include an 8 megapixel camera and a 3.7-inch AMOLED display, though the resolution of the panel is currently unknown. Have we mentioned we can't wait to get our paws around this? Because we can't.

Samsung's OmniaHD: world's first phone to capture 720p video? originally appeared on Engadget HD on Sun, 15 Feb 2009 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's been a slow, painful death, but it's about time to just pull the white sheet over ultra-wideband and let the wireless standard rest in peace. After Intel pulled its support for UWB and proponent WiQuest shut down late last year, all that the format really had left was TZero. After successfully surviving some legal issues, we thought the company was good to go in fighting a hopeless battle against wireless HD upstart AMIMON. Now, it seems that WHDI (that's AMIMON's magic) is free to take the market by storm, but only time will tell if wireless HD is even remotely close to mainstream. In one sense, we're sad to see competition die, but on the other hand, it's always good to see fruitless format wars fade away. Don't be too down on yourself, TZero -- it's not like anyone really had high expectations for you or anything.

TZero closes up shop, UWB all but dead originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 22:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewscloseddeadeconomyindustrykillkilledout of businessOutOfBusinessshut downShutDownt-zeroTzeroultra-widebandUWBwirelesswireless hdwireless hdmiWirelessHdWirelessHdmiThu, 12 Feb 2009 22:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Charter Communications to file for bankruptcy ]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/charter-communications-to-file-for-bankruptcy/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/charter-communications-to-file-for-bankruptcy/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/charter-communications-to-file-for-bankruptcy/#commentsFiled under: ,


Okay, so we hate to be blunt, but if there was one cable carrier out there just waiting to crash, it was Charter. The company famous for engaging in less-than-forthright contest practices and perpetually finding ways to perturb subscribers has just announced that a Chapter 11 filing isn't too far away. In fact, a recent press release makes clear that it "intends to implement its financial restructuring through a Chapter 11 filing to be initiated on or before April 1, 2009." As per the agreement, all debt holders will reportedly be paid in full, with Paul Allen keeping the largest voting interest in the company. Of course, shareholders' stake in the company will be canceled, but the decision will supposedly reduce debt by around $8 billion. As expected, the company has assured subscribers that its services will continue to operate throughout the debt restructuring process, but we wouldn't expect service to get any better in the coming months.

[Via AP, thanks Vanbrothers]

Charter Communications to file for bankruptcy originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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You can already control your VUDU queue, home automation system and Netflix account with your iPhone, so really, why not your DirecTV set-top-box? As recent commercials have shown, the satcaster is pretty big on remote scheduling, and while this mysterious DirecTV iPhone app doesn't yet have a public purpose, it doesn't take much thought to conjure up a good guess. Word on the street is that this limited beta hasn't officially opened up for testers yet, but the image above shows otherwise. A staggeringly great Q4, an iPhone app on the horizon -- man, life's good at DirecTV. [Warning: Free subscription required for read link]

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Mysterious DirecTV iPhone app appears, imaginations run wild originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 10:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeappleapplicationAppStorebreaking newsBreakingNewsDirecTViphoneiphone 3gIphone3gremote schedulingRemoteSchedulingThu, 12 Feb 2009 10:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Netflix breaks the 10 million subscriber mark, keeps on truckin']]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/netflix-breaks-the-10-million-subscriber-mark-keeps-on-truckin/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/netflix-breaks-the-10-million-subscriber-mark-keeps-on-truckin/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/netflix-breaks-the-10-million-subscriber-mark-keeps-on-truckin/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We can't say the economic crisis has been too kind to every industry, but it's been a best friend to Netflix. As consumers divert their out-on-the-town dollars to sit-on-my-arse-and-watch-Netflix dollars, the by-mail and streaming movie rental company is just breaking records left and right. After closing a stellar 2008 with 9.4 million customers, the company has today announced that the 10 million mark has been crossed. For those struggling with basic math, that means that it has added 600,000 net subscribers since January 1st. So, where does Netflix go from here? Into every nook and cranny it can, of course, so don't be shocked to see Watch Instantly creep onto your next HDTV, set-top-box, Blu-ray player or portable microwave. Seriously, it could happen.

Netflix breaks the 10 million subscriber mark, keeps on truckin' originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 million10Millionbreaking newsBreakingNewsbusinesseconomyfilmsgrowthindustrymilestonemoviesnetflixrecordrentrentalsrentingsalesThu, 12 Feb 2009 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Pioneer officially leaving the TV biz by March 2010, focusing on audio]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/pioneer-officially-leaving-the-tv-biz-by-march-2010-focusing-on/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/pioneer-officially-leaving-the-tv-biz-by-march-2010-focusing-on/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/12/pioneer-officially-leaving-the-tv-biz-by-march-2010-focusing-on/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bad news Kuro fans, the rumors were true and Pioneer is leaving the TV manufacturing business. On the upside, the restructuring deadline is March 2010, so a predicted net 130 billion yen ($1.44 billion) loss shouldn't be enough to get between you and the plasma HDTV of your dreams. The company's U.S. and U.K. plants are shutting down by April and February of this year, respectively, and product development for TVs beyond what's currently on the market is ending, seeing no prospects for improving profitability even after combining plasma efforts with Panasonic and LCDs with Sharp. Overall, there will be 10,000 fewer full time and temporary Pioneer employees than there were at the end of last year, while pay and bonuses for execs have been cut. The future for Pioneer? Mostly car audio, including in-car Blu-ray players and networked electronics, while its home electronics business focus on audio, DJ equipment and cable TV boxes, with a focus on using its expertise in improving sound. All other ugly details are contained in the press release, mourning the passing of another plasma supplier is in the comments.

[Via Bloomberg and AV Watch, thanks Carl H.]

Pioneer officially leaving the TV biz by March 2010, focusing on audio originally appeared on Engadget HD on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 03:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewscar audioCarAudiokurolayoffspioneerplasmarestructuringThu, 12 Feb 2009 03:31:00 EST<![CDATA[President Obama signs DTV delay bill into law]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/president-obama-signs-dtv-delay-bill-into-law/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/president-obama-signs-dtv-delay-bill-into-law/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/president-obama-signs-dtv-delay-bill-into-law/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


No way Obama was going to veto this after driving it all the way through Congress, but technically, the digital TV delay wasn't actually official until now. Late today, America's President signed his name onto the bill which will delay the digital TV transition from February 17th to June 12th, though a provision allows stations to switch over beforehand should they choose. In fact, hundreds of stations still plan to kill analog later this month, as they've been planning towards that date for years now. Honestly, we can't figure out what the purpose of this is. Unless there's more cash for the currently dry voucher program tucked away somewhere in that mind-bogglingly large "stimulus package," delaying the pain won't solve a thing. Though it will confuse the hell out of people, so there's that.

President Obama signs DTV delay bill into law originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009barack obamaBarackObamabreaking newsBreakingNewscutoverdigital tvdigital tv transitionDigitalTvDigitalTvTransitiondtvdtv transitionDtvTransitionobamaswitchoverWed, 11 Feb 2009 19:39:00 EST<![CDATA[VIZIO kicks plasma to the curb, will focus on LCD TVs]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/vizio-kicks-plasma-to-the-curb-will-focus-on-lcd-tvs/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/vizio-kicks-plasma-to-the-curb-will-focus-on-lcd-tvs/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/vizio-kicks-plasma-to-the-curb-will-focus-on-lcd-tvs/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We've certainly seen mixed reviews for VIZIO plasmas, but it seems that those very reviews will be the last of their breed. According to the New York Times, VIZIO co-founder Laynie Newsome has confirmed that its existing PDPs will be the last the company sells. Looking back, you'll notice that only LCDs were introduced by the outfit at CES, and while Pioneer may or may not completely abandon its TV initiatives, Americans can now definitively count on just three major players to provide for their plasma desires: LG, Samsung and Panasonic. Newsome stated that the decision was made for a number of reasons. First, PDP sets simply "don't show as well in big box stores," and VIZIO wanted to "devote all of its available shelf space to the technology that moves off the shelves fastest." We're a tad torn as to whether we should weep here, but regardless, a fond farewell is in order.

VIZIO kicks plasma to the curb, will focus on LCD TVs originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewseconomyhdtvindustrypdpplasmavizioWed, 11 Feb 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi temporarily suspends production of LaserVue HDTVs]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/mitsubishi-temporarily-suspends-production-of-laservue-hdtvs/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/mitsubishi-temporarily-suspends-production-of-laservue-hdtvs/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/11/mitsubishi-temporarily-suspends-production-of-laservue-hdtvs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


We had heard that certain Mitsubishi representatives had been telling Diamond dealers that production had been suspended on the outfit's flagship LaserVue HDTV, and sure enough, the story is true. We have confirmed with Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America that the outfit has "temporarily suspended production of LaserVue televisions due to a problem with manufacturing equipment used to produce LaserVue TVs." We're also informed that "Mitsubishi Electric engineers are taking the necessary action to ensure that the company resumes production as quickly as possible, while maintaining the highest standards for product quality and reliability." So far as we know, this isn't a sign of sudden discontinuation, as Mitsu has affirmed that it's "expecting production to resume in early 2009." We'll update with more as we get it in.

Update: We asked a few followup questions, and we did find that Mitsu isn't anticipating any supply issues, which indicates the problem may be short lived (or at least it hopes so). As for an official comment on what went wrong? "LaserVue production was suspended due to a manufacturing equipment issue." That's all we've got.

[Thanks, Chuck]

Mitsubishi temporarily suspends production of LaserVue HDTVs originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>65-inchbreaking newsBreakingNewshdtvL65-A90laserlaservuelcdlcd hdtvLcdHdtvMitsubishiproductionsuspensionWed, 11 Feb 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VUDU permanently cuts retail price of movie set-top-box in half]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/09/vudu-permanently-cuts-retail-price-of-movie-set-top-box-in-half/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/09/vudu-permanently-cuts-retail-price-of-movie-set-top-box-in-half/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/09/vudu-permanently-cuts-retail-price-of-movie-set-top-box-in-half/#commentsFiled under: ,


We had a sinking feeling those promotional prices over the holidays wouldn't stick once Santa had done his duties, but rather than ratcheting price tags back up entirely, it has decided to permanently reduce the retail price on its standard VUDU movie set-top-box by half. As of now, prospective buyers can snag a box for $149 (down from $299), while the more capacious VUDU XL is dropping from $999 to $499 (and that'll include a gratis home theater connectivity software package). Also of note, the rack-mountable VUDU XL2 is stooping from $1,299 to $799 for those who prefer that form factor. So, these stickers low enough for you? Or are you really planning to wait 'til Christmas 2009 to score an even more special deal?

VUDU permanently cuts retail price of movie set-top-box in half originally appeared on Engadget HD on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 19:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Say it ain't so (again) Pioneer, Japan's Nikkei is reporting that despite planning a return to profitability by sourcing Panasonic plasma panels, facing a consolidated loss of 100 billion yen ($1.08 billion U.S.) it will end TV development and production entirely. The DVD business will be spun off into a new venture with Sharp as part of a plan to shed several thousand employees over the next year, including a shutdown of its Shizuoka plant, along with already planned closings in the U.S. and Europe. Honestly, we should have seen things were going badly when it let LaserDisc die, but the worsening economy may have proved too tough for the idea that its Kuro and Elite line of products would not be subject to the ups and downs of the economy.

[Via Gearlog, registration required on read link]

Pioneer reportedly ending TV production, spinning off DVD business originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewskurolayoffspioneerplasmashutdownFri, 06 Feb 2009 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[It's official: DTV "hard date" moved to June 12]]>http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/04/its-official-dtv-hard-date-moved-to-june-12/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/04/its-official-dtv-hard-date-moved-to-june-12/http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/02/04/its-official-dtv-hard-date-moved-to-june-12/#commentsFiled under: ,


After much wrangling, the DTV Delay Act has worked its way through the House of Representatives and will certainly be signed by President Obama, changing the cutoff date for analog broadcasts from February 17 to June 12. Don't expect this to bring a sudden end to digital TV confusion, since stations can switch prior to that date, and according to the FCC up to 61% will be able to. Since simply powering analog equipment costs thousands of dollars a month, OTA TV watchers will want to check their local broadcaster's plans as more than a few will be going ahead with the original date for better or worse. Got an unused, expired coupon? No need to head to Retrevo just yet, since you'll now be able to reapply to the again-funded coupon program. Of course, the FCC still has to figure out how to implement the new law, with only a few days to prepare, tomorrow's open meeting on the subject should be very interesting.

It's official: DTV "hard date" moved to June 12 originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Digital TV transition
Just to make sure that the digital TV transition gets delayed, the US Senate has approved another measure to postpone the transition date until June 12 and sent it on its way to the House of Representatives. If the House's mere indication that the delay would go through didn't dash our hopes of analog-free airwaves next month, the quick-fire nature of this second bill certainly did. Essentially the same as the first proposal, this version with minor edits cleared the Senate unanimously. With the House in recess until next week, we'll have to wait for any movement, but it's looking like we'll be stuck with analog for a while longer. Hopefully, this whole mess will be resolved, because the longer it goes on, the more people will become confused, and maybe join the 22-percent of Americans who are planning to give up on TV altogether.

Senate okays another digital TV transition delay originally appeared on Engadget HD on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 07:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In an absolutely shocking move, the United States House of Representatives has failed to pass the digital TV transition delay bill that was all but certain to fly through just days ago. The bill needed two-thirds of the votes of the House under "special rules adopted for the vote," and reportedly, the vote was just 258 to 168 in favor of changing the date. As it stands, an estimated 6.5 million Americans are not yet prepared for the switch -- which is now back on track for February 17th -- and the money well for government-issued vouchers has ran dry. Honestly, we're elated to hear the news. The February date has been blasted from the rooftops for years now, and changing it this late in the game would wreak all kinds of havoc in the industry, not to mention instill even more confusion. Soon-to-be-vacated airwaves, we're ready for you.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Digital TV transition delay bill fails to pass in House originally appeared on Engadget HD on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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