Tuesday 25 September 2012

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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