Video Streaming

Future of Video Streaming: TVs or Computers?

That’s another zillion-dollar question. Every technology company on the planet wants to know whether the computer or the TV will become the next electronic hearth. In fact, streams are fl owing into both hearths. Because most computers are already hooked up to the Internet and most TVs aren’t, computers presently enjoy an advantage. With essentially no fuss or muss, you can use your computer to partake of all the streams we’ve discussed.



The most interesting development in streaming is its migration to non-computer devices. For example, you can download standard- and high-def movies to an Xbox 360 videogame console. Various boxes can be used to link a computer to your TV; newer TiVo DVRs. Netflix Player is a low-cost set-top box that lets you access and watch Netflix on your TV. The Apple TV box is essentially a direct link to the iTunes catalog. PlayStation 3 has added movie downloads, and the Blockbuster Media Point box does the same. The Vudu set-top box is notable for its instant access to HD movies, but only if your Internet connection is fast enough to support it. The list of streaming devices is, literally, growing daily. Finally, and perhaps most exciting, is the new breed of "traditional" components that are stream-savvy. For example, many new TVs are Internet enabled, and some new Blu-ray players can stream content. Let’s discuss those in more detail.



What do I need?

The best part about streaming is that the admission price is relatively low, provided your house has the right plumbing. You must have a broadband connection. The connection can be DSL, cable modem, or fiber optic. Of course, the faster, the better. Beyond that, if you happen to have the right pieces already lying around, you might be able to start streaming tonight, at no extra cost. The Apple TV box is essentially a direct link to the iTunes catalog. PlayStation 3 has added movie downloads, and the Blockbuster Media Point box does the same. The Vudu set-top box is notable for its instant access to HD movies, but only if your Internet connection is fast enough to support it. The list of streaming devices is, literally, growing daily. Finally, and perhaps most exciting, is the new breed of "traditional" components that are stream-savvy. For example, many new TVs are Internet enabled, and some new Blu-ray players can stream content. Let’s discuss those in more detail.



The key is knowing what access each TV manufacturer provides. For example, sets from Samsung will let you access Flickr, Yahoo News, USA Today, YouTube, and eBay. LG is hooking up with Netflix and YouTube. Sony’s Web-enabled Bravia TVs bring you CBS Interactive, Sports Illustrated, and Yahoo. Panasonic’s VieraCast streams Amazon Video on Demand, YouTube, Picasa Web albums, and Bloomberg. It’s safe to say that Internet connectivity is fast becoming the selling feature that differentiates one TV from another, a testament to the growing power of streaming. As noted, Blu-ray is also playing an unexpected role in the emergence of streaming, with a number of Blu-ray players able to stream. Blu-ray might prove to be the bridge to streaming, and also a quality standard to which it must aspire.







By: Francis David





Francis helps people understand the DISH TV Network and knows all of the DISH Network local deals for new customers. He has an in-depth knowledge of DISH Network HD services.