Netgear's new NeoTV media streamers for home theaters

Facing competiton from Roku, Netgearhas released a new line up of its media streamers for home theaters. Netgear's new NeoTV media streamers for home theaters feature updates and adds a high end model as well. The new models have faster processors and the addition of HTML5 (thanks to Adode's shift in flash strategy) support and services like Rhapsody. (Image credit: Netgear)

According to Bryan Bishop -

The new models come in three flavors. At $49.99, the entry-level NeoTV features the basics that you'd expect: 1080p output, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The NeoTV Pro, priced at $59.99, adds composite video output along with Wi-Di, allowing users with compatible computers to use their television as a display. Both are essentially the same products as the prior generation, save the HTML5 support and processor bump (both also feature more streamlined enclosures). Where Netgear is really trying to differentiate itself, however, is the NeoTV Max. The new model aims to be an all-in-one solution for users, adding a MicroSD slot, the ability to play content via USB or DLNA, and support for Vudu's 3D content. For the NeoTV Max's $69.99 asking price, customers will also get a new two-sided remote, with a QWERTY keyboard on the back to make searching for content more convenient.

Check out the introductory video below -

The release of Netgear's new NeoTV media streamers for home theaters is also accompanied by an updated version of its Push2TV streaming display adaptor. The device was originally a Wi-Di-only product which allow any TV to be hooked up to a compatible laptop and use it as a monitor. The updates in the new device includes support for Miracast which is similar to AirPlay. Given that smartphones and tablets are already incorporating Miracast into their feature set, it allows users greater flexibility. The price is set at $59.99 but we are told that NeoTV models will soon acquire Miracast as well via a firmware update.

At $59.99, it doesn't seem to be nearly the value that the NeoTV line represents, but for the moment it is the only device in Netgear's living room line-up that supports Miracast (we were told that the feature would be coming to select NeoTV models via a firmware update, however).

This is great news for home theater enthusiasts as more affordable options are now on the market which also offer greater flexibility in viewing options. Let us know if you are in the market for Netgear's new NeoTV media streamers for home theaters. The models are currently available in stores and online.

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Bose SoundLink Air Digital wireless speaker

The Bose SoundLink Air Digital wireless speaker is the company's first AirPlay-enabled wireless speaker. The wireless speaker like others streams music wirelessly from iOS devices. The speaker comes with an infrared remote control and can play music from other devices as well via the Aux in port. (Images credit: Bose)

Check out the video below from the company on the Bose SoundLink Air Digital wireless speaker overview.

In another addition to its wireless speaker range, the company also announced the release of the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth® Mobile speaker II which allows users to stream music from any mobile device featuring Bluetooth. This version has an improved full range of audio in the same package and dimensions of its predecessor.

Check out the video below for an overview on the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth® Mobile speaker II.

Check out the outdoor review of the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth® Mobile speaker II predecessor in the video below.

Here is another review between the Bose SoundLink Wireless Mobile Speaker vs. Jawbone Big Jambox

The SoundLink Air is priced at $349.95, with an optional rechargeable battery also available for $89.95. The SoundLink Bluetooth mobile speaker II is priced at $299.95 for the option with a dark gray nylon cover, the premium variant comes in at $349.95 with a chrome trim and dark brown leather cover.

Given the quality that is synonymous with Bose the Bose SoundLink Air Digital wireless speaker and the Bose SoundLink Bluetooth® Mobile speaker II will provide great sound. In the Bluetooth mobile wireless speaker front the Jawbone probably still packs more bang for buck so it will boil down to what you are really after. For those who prefer the AirPlay ecosystem the Bose SoundLink Air Digital wireless speaker is definitely a wireless speaker to look into.

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Is the Kindle Fire HD tablet better for home wireless networks?

With the launch of the Kindle Fire HD tablet and Kindle Paperwhite the question being asked is - Is the Kindle Fire HD tablet better for home wireless networks? (Images credit: Amazon)

Lets go over the Paperwhite first. The video below gives you a good overview.

The Kindle Paperwhite is an e-reader that features a patented lighting technology which is a first. It weighs in at 7.5 ounces and measures 9.1mm in thickness. The battery life clocks in at a very impressive 8 weeks, even with the light turned on. The backlight can be adjusted to fit the ambient light in the room.
The screen is sharper than current Kindle models with 62% more pixels. It comes in wifi and 3G models and is priced $119 and $179 respectively. Pre-orders can be made currently with shipping to start October 1.

Now to the Kindle Fire HD tablet. This device we believe is able to contend with the Nexus 7 and iPad. Is the Kindle Fire HD tablet better for home wireless networks? we believe so for the reasons below. While the Kindle HD offers features and a price tag that may make some iPad users look at the device the Nexus 7 we believe is the Kindle HD's closest rival and so will compare them.

Lets start with the specs.

Kindle Fire HD
7-inch 1280 x 800 IPS LCD display also has a 8.9 inch version
Read more at http://www.tecca.com/columns/kindle-fire-hd-7-vs-google-nexus-7/#5o532FcVHue1....99
OMAP 4460 processor (Texas Instruments)
16GB of storage (32GB is $249)
Advanced MIMO wifi technology designed to boost signal
Dolby Digital Plus stereo speakers
HDMI-out port
HD front facing camera

Google Nexus 7
7-inch 1280 x 800 IPS LCD display
Read more at http://www.tecca.com/columns/kindle-fire-hd-7-vs-google-nexus-7/#5o532FcVHue1....99
Tegra 3 processor
8 or 16GB of storage (16GB is $249)
1 GB RAM
1.2-megapixel front-facing camera
NFC support
Micro USB port only

So based on specs the Amazon Kindle Fire HD is better for home wireless networks. While the Tegra 3 processor is said to be faster one would really have to test it out. Based on price the Kindle Fire HD wins out as well as the 16GB version is available for $199.

If you use your tablet more as an e-reader and for your kids to play with the Amazon Kindle HD's Whispersync and Voice pairs as well as FreeTime parental controls on time and content are great features. However if you use it more as a computer and smartphone then the Nexus 7 with Google Now android 4.1 smart search engine with voice controls is more likely to wow you.

When it comes to entertainment and apps the devices are quite different. Amazon has a ever widening collection of ebooks, movies, Tv shows and music. Google Play offers the entire app marketplace on the Nexus 7.

Check out the Amazon Kindle Fire HD tablet review from CBS news below -

Is the Kindle Fire HD tablet better for home wireless networks? It really boils down to what members of your home use the device for. We believe the Kindle Fire HD will do well and find a place in many home wireless networks and will often exist alongside an iPad or a Nexus 7 for those in need of more computing power and ability.

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iPhone 5 for home networks is it really much better?

So the iPhone 5 has finally been released but the question for most of us is - iPhone 5 for home networks is it really much better?

Design wise the iPhone 5 for home networks has been redesigned with its body “stretched” for the new 4-inch screen. That’s right, it has a larger screen, and it has a Retina resolution of 326 pixels per inch. So you get an extra row of apps on your home screen. The actual phone is 18 percent thinner and 20 percent lighter than the iPhone 4S. There is a new “Lightning” port that is 80 percent smaller than connectors of previous models which also means your old iPhone cables won't work on this model but there is an adapter for all your old Apple chargers.

If you'd like a video summary on the iPhone 5 for home networks check out the video below.

The iPhone 5 for home networks will have an upgraded A6 processor and will have 4G LTE provided your provider has the coverage you'll need. The camera is at 8 Megapixels, with dynamic low-light mode for imperfect lighting conditions. You get 1080p video with the rear-facing camera, and 720p video on the front camera. It is also capable of panorama mode for a 28 Megapixel image, and it is 40 percent faster than the iPhone 4S.

In addition to the hardware change, the software has been upgraded with iOS 6. It can support offline maps for navigation, and Siri will also get an upgrade as well.

Pricing for the iPhone 5 is said to be $199 for 16GB, $299 for the 32GB, and $399 for the 64GB each of which comes with a two-year contract. The phones will ship on September 21.

So iPhone 5 for home networks is it really much better? Well it isn't exactly ground breaking but it is a fresher and updated version of the iPhone would we be in a rush to upgrade - not at this stage and we don't quite see any significant benefits for the home network as well. Voice your opinion on iPhone 5 for home networks is it really much better in the comments below.

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JVC 2012 home theater projectors join UHDTV revolution

Thanks to its e-Shift2 technology the JVC 2012 home theater projectors join UHDTV revolution. The company's technology is a version of the "4K precision" upconversion it revealed last year. It works by creating 2 1080p frames from a HD source and then scales and interpolates the information from the two frames. While this isn't quite 4K there really isn't a lot of content out there in 4K at the moment. (Images credit: JVC America)

According to the press release on the JVC 2012 home theater projectors -

In other enhancements, new 2K to 4K scaling technology using proprietary JVC algorithms replaces a two-band filter with an eight-band filter to apply more correction to more areas of the image. This delivers a noticeable improvement with any compatible 2D signal. To optimize performance for different content, this Multiple Pixel Control offers five preset modes plus Off.

According to Richard Lawler -

The e-Shift2 promises higher native contrast and improved processing over its predecessor thanks to a new polarizing wire grid engine and updated algorithms. All of the new projectors are 3D capable with RF-connected active shutter glasses, and there's a new smartphone app available for controlling settings without interrupting viewing. Of course, a 130,000:1 native contrast ratio doesn't come cheap and the top of the line DLA-X95R/DLA-RS66 models sporting the spec have a price tag of $11,999. Of course, if you're looking for the 4K upscaling for a (relative) bargain, the DLA-X55R/DLA-RS48 can be had for just a hair under $5,000.

In addition to the news that JVC 2012 home theater projectors join UHDTV revolution, the company has also revealed a pre-production model of an 84 inch UDHTV that is slated to to be released in the first quarter of next year. The company says that like its home projectors the device will be available in home theater and professional trim and will be branded the RS-840UD and PS-840UD. With a price tag below the 20k mark it would come in cheaper than Sony and LG and from reports the display and picture quality was sharp and clear and had less glare compared to other displays.

So if you are wanting to join the UHDTV revolution but are stumped by the price tags, then JVC home theater projectors may be the way to go. Alternatively with JVC 2012 home theater projectors joining the UHDTV revolution and the new UHDTV due out next year you may want to hold off until then.

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Jabra Solemate wireless speaker steps on Jawbone Jambox

Jabra a company better known for its Bluetooth headsets has created the Jabra Solemate wireless speaker. The Jabra Solemate wireless speaker steps on Jawbone Jambox in that the design has been footwear inspired. The Bluetooth 3.0 wireless speaker is packed with some cool features including the rubberized casing that is shock and water resistant, the front has a pair of acoustic tweeters separated by a sub-woofer with passive bass radiator the waterproof soundbag, the heel tab for carrying purposes and a replaceable sole which serves as a storage point for a 3.5mm cable. Check out the introductory video below.

The speaker is able to pump out 120db which can be controlled via two volume buttons on top of the device. There is also a multifunction button for commanding calls and enabling its Voice Guidance feature on top of the device. The Jabra Solemate wireless speaker also has a power and pairing switch, a 3.5mm jack and a micro-USB input for charging and direct digital audio connection. The company says the device is about the size and weight of a water bottle. (Image credit: Jabra)

The Jabra Solemate wireless speaker is quite similar to the Jawbone Jambox in that they are priced at $199.99, are compact Bluetooth speakers with a simple interface, speakerphone functionality, and have around ten hours of battery life. The Jabra Solemate wireless speaker steps on Jawbone Jambox quite literally in terms of its other functions and its partnership with ClubCreate.

According to the press release -

Jabra has also announced a partnership with ClubCreate, a social platform for music creation and collaboration that allows music lovers to play their remixed tunes via the Solemate speaker. Combining Jabra's heritage in creating high-quality audio devices and ClubCreate's platform for music expression creates an experience unlike any other. With the rise of creating customized music and ring tones for mobile phones, the Jabra Solemate and Club Create partnership capitalizes on the trend, enabling users to legally create and personalize their own music with ClubCreate and share what they've created with friends and family via the Solemate.

The device is likely to add creativity and life to any party and would make a great wireless speaker to any home network. The Jabra Solemate wireless speaker is available in black and white variants at Best Buy and Amazon.

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Withings WS-30 wireless scale and app for home networks

The new Withings WS-30 wireless scale and app for home networks providing weight watchers a PC free experience. The device offers a combination of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allowing users to connect to smartphones and tablets. (Image credit: Withings)

The WS-30 wireless scale also has features such as position control which helps individuals stand properly on the scale and an automatic detection system for multiple users. In addition the Health Companion app provides visualization options for tracking towards goals and push notifications. Integration with over 60 third party apps including the likes of RunKeeper also help provide an overall view of ones exercise and fitness.

Check out the introductory video below.

The great part about the Withings WS-30 wireless scale is that it can adapt to your lifestyle. It connects automatically whether you take on holiday or leave it at home. You can download data directly from the scale or via the user online Withings account.

Currently the Health Companion app is only available on the Apple App Store but an Android version is due out soon according to the company. The Withings WS-30 wireless scale and app for home networks is due out later this month in Europe with an expected retail price of €119.95 or $150. No details of when it will be available Stateside as yet.

The Withings WS-30 wireless scale and app for home networks will make a huge difference to a number of households with the functions including fat, muscle and BMI readings it provides.

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Google TV choices for home theaters unveiled

Google TV choices for home theaters unveiled at IFA 2012 including Hisense, Samsung and Sony. Late last year Eric Schmidt announced that "by the summer of 2012, the majority of the televisions you see in stores will have Google TV embedded."

A number of partners are now unveiling their products inlcuding Hisense and Samsung for the first time. Details are sketchy at this point but the Google blog provides the following details -

Hisense joins the Google TV family: Hisense will be giving the first view of the Hisense Pulse with Google TV, launching in the US later this year.

Samsung will be previewing its first Google TV device: Later this year, Samsung will introduce a Samsung Smart TV with Google TV, expanding the premium content and services available through Samsung Apps.

Sony will showcase its Internet Player NSZ-GS7: The device will soon be hitting shelves in Germany, France, and the Netherlands following its launch in the UK earlier this summer.

The news of Google TV choices for home theaters unveiled can only mean that there will be more choice in home theater equipment and connectivity. Our eyes will be on Samsung given they are a large player in the TV market and that this will be one of many products coming out.

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Youtube movie rentals for Philips SMART TV's adds spice to competition

The news from TP Vision about Youtube movie rentals for Philips SMART TV's adds spice to competition. The company which manufacturers Philips TV's put out a press release recently highlighting upcoming apps for the Philips SMART TV platform. (Image credit: Youtube)

The Google owned VOD style movie rental service will add a premium component to its TV applications on various SMART TV platforms. This feature will be made available first in a select number of European countries.

Youtube's initiative in the VOD space has grown with Google's agreements with Paramount Pictures and MGM and other content providers. The service though has yet to make the jump from the computer screen to the TV and other connected home theater equipment. While Youtube movie rentals for Philips SMART TV's adds spice to competition, this new move will allow YouTube to compete more directly with other VOD services like VUDU, Amazon Instant or Blockbuster. For Google this would also mean more engagement with YouTube’s ad-supported content, which already includes a decent mix of feature-length movies and professionally-produced shows.

While Youtube movie rentals for Philips SMART TV's adds spice to competition, what does it mean for your home theater? Do you see price advantages or greater selection?

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JBL Power Up wireless speakers with wireless charging

Nokia has been busy announcing a range of audio accessories for its Lumia range of smartphones. These include the JBL Power Up wireless speakers with wireless charging. With NFC and Bluetooth also available pairing the wireless speakers is easy. (Image credit: Nokia)

As far as charging goes all one needs to do is take advantage of the built-in wireless charging found in the new Lumia hardware providing juice to any handset placed on its top. The device itself resembles an audio dock but the company is promising high quality sound from the JBL Power Up wireless speakers with wireless charging.

Nokia has also released a number of energy efficient wireless chargers which include the wireless charging plate, fatboy pillow and a charging stand for multi-taskers. The JBL Power Up wireless speakers with wireless charging seems to be part of a trend to fit into customers needs for style and clutter free use. What do you think of the new Nokia Lumia range?

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