All articles tagged with #streaming apps
Google TV will be integrated into hotel rooms starting in 2026 through a partnership with DIRECTV, featuring a customized, simplified interface for guests to access streaming services and live TV, with a focus on privacy and personalization. The platform will look different from the standard Google TV experience, tailored specifically for hospitality use.
Amazon unveiled Vega OS, a new platform for Fire TV devices that relies on cloud streaming for app support, allowing quick access to a wide app library without native app development. However, the new $40 Fire TV Stick Select has less powerful hardware and may deliver a subpar streaming experience, raising concerns about its competitiveness and user satisfaction.
Aurzen has announced the D1R Cube, the first portable projector running Roku TV OS, offering streaming apps like Netflix and Disney Plus, with a 150-inch projection capability, 1080p display, and features like automatic focus, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay, priced at $169.99 for portable movie nights, but with limited brightness suitable for dark environments.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will support backwards compatibility for most Nintendo and third-party games, but streaming apps like Crunchyroll and Hulu will not be compatible at launch, with no clear information on new versions being developed.
Apple's upcoming mixed-reality headset, the Apple Vision Pro, is set to launch with the absence of key streaming apps like YouTube, Spotify, and Netflix, signaling a shift in the digital entertainment landscape. The device's unconventional design and the need for a separate battery pack raise questions about its practicality and aesthetics. Despite these challenges, the Vision Pro is now available for $3,499, but its reception in the market remains uncertain.
Apple's new mixed reality headset, Apple Vision Pro, will feature thousands of Disney+ TV shows and movies, as well as immersive viewing options in iconic environments inspired by Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars. The headset, priced at $3,499, will also offer a wide range of streaming apps and 3D movies, including a "Cinema Environment" in the Apple TV App for a personalized movie theater experience. Additionally, new immersive entertainment experiences and 180-degree 3D 8K recordings with Spatial Audio will be available, including a free Apple app called Encounter Dinosaurs executive produced by Jon Favreau.
Paramount is shutting down the streaming app versions of Comedy Central, MTV, and Paramount Network, directing viewers to watch shows and films on those networks through their TV provider or on MTV.com. The reason for the discontinuation is unclear, but it may be part of Paramount's strategy to drive audiences towards its subscription streaming service, Paramount+. The apps for other networks like Nickelodeon, VH1, and BET are still running. With the decline in cable subscribers and the rise of streaming, the use of these "TV everywhere" apps may be diminishing.
Polestar 2, the flagship electric vehicle from Polestar, has integrated Amazon Prime Video into its operating system, following the addition of Google's YouTube app earlier this year. The integration allows Polestar 2 owners to stream shows and movies from Prime Video while parked or charging. This move is part of Polestar's efforts to enhance the user experience and lay the groundwork for future app integrations in upcoming EV models.
Samsung's revamped Freestyle Gen 2 projector is now available for pre-order. Priced at $800, the compact projector can throw 1080p images on walls or ceilings, creating screens between 30 and 100 inches in size. It features a rotating cradle stand, built-in 360-degree sound, and compatibility with portable batteries. The projector offers access to streaming apps and a gaming hub for playing titles from various providers. Pre-orders will be accepted until August 30th, with shipping starting on August 31st.
Google TV's personalized recommendations and busy interface may not be ideal for all viewers. However, users can switch to an "Apps Only" mode, similar to Roku's minimalist interface, by accessing the Settings menu and selecting Apps Only. While this mode eliminates personalized recommendations and limits certain features like search and Google Assistant, it provides a simpler layout that highlights the user's app library. However, it's important to note that even in Apps Only mode, Google continues to collect data from other apps to improve recommendations.