The newest and perhaps the most controversial Internet TV box right now is the Logitech Revue powered by Google TV. Shortly after this solution was launched, ABC, NBC, CBS, and now Fox have blocked website access to Google TV. This means shows like ‘The Office’ won’t work unless you are watching last season’s episodes off the Netflix application. What is so controversial is that this can be done via other Internet TV boxes or by viewing the episodes off your Mac or PC. So why pick on Google?
In my humble opinion, the big networks are using this as a negotiating tactic to get Google and other enablers to pay for content but also to slow the transition from traditional cable TV to Internet TV. Let’s face it, revenues are plentiful for content providers on the old model but not the new. Anyone remember Napster and the recording industry battles? Just like iTunes emerged, I am confident Google and others will emerge over time as consumer adoption increases and the new revenue models reveal themselves.
So enough speculation. What is Google TV and this Logitech Revue all about? Well first, the product is not designed to be just a standalone TV replacement service like the little Roku. Google TV is designed to be a complimentary service using your existing Dish service. Specifically, Dish Network but I’ve been testing the box with DirecTV.
Unboxing
Packaging is simple. A power supply, set-top box, and remote. Wait, this isn’t a remote it is a keyboard!?
Yea it is slim, light, and minimal but it is still a ‘flippin’ keyboard. Not sure I like this…
Hook-up
I am a believer in NOT reading the manual. If the typical users can figure it out without instructions, the product was designed well. If you must read the manual, you are going to lose a lot of people. For example, Ipod, who had to read the manual? But hey, I don’t care if we’re talking about the latest technology device or putting together a night stand from Target. Instruction manuals shouldn’t be necessary unless you bought a 7-series BMW. Then, its a pleasure.
I am happy to report that the Logitech Revue setup is extremely easy and user friendly.
Simply put, I plug in HDMI out from my DirecTV DVR into the Logitech Revue. HDMI out comes out of Revue into my TV set. Turn it on. Following the Steps. 10 minutes later I am up and running. It programmed my TV set, old Harman Kardon Receiver, and DirecTV STB. My understanding is the Logitech is using their excellent Harmony remote software in this device and it definitely shows. I am impressed with setup! Easy, fast, and NO manual.
The Experience
The home page has a pass-thru for “Live TV” which is your entry point for traditional Dish service. Once there, you see the familiar program guide that you know and love. Clicking the ‘home’ button brings you back to the Google applications that includes Netflix, YouTube, Video Player, etc.
Now, I’m going to hold judgment on this box as I’ve only had it 3 days now. I will write a more complete review on the experience in the coming weeks. If you have specific questions or things you would like me to check into, please post a comment and let me know. Thanks for viewing and stay tuned!
Sounds very interesting. I do have a question, however. How does it stand up to the next gen tv's being released that are wi-fi capable, and have many of the same apps built in?
ReplyDeleteGreat question. Sony, Vizio, Samsung, and other TVs are starting to integrate wifi and Internet apps inside the TV without the need for a secondary box. If your only interesting in Netflix, Youtube, and some of the other popular widgets and are in the market for a new TV set, by all means get the TV skip the box. The same can be said of some of 3rd Generations Blu-Ray players out there.
ReplyDeleteHowever, the 1st Gen of TVs that have this functionality built in does not have some of the horsepower that some of these Internet TV boxes have and the boxes are also been out quite a bit longer too which means they could potentially be more stable. Jury still out...
If you already have a modern TV set and wish to stream home movies, music, pictures, and other videos that require a robust platform, a secondary box is your only choice right now. So depending on your needs, an Internet enabled TV set may or may not do all that you require.
I am definitely digging the new Logitech Revue. I have it with my DISH Network services and couldn't be happier. I am an employee and subscriber with DISH so I was able to pick one up the first day for only $179. I personally like the keyboard remote. Easier to type out a search on a regular keyboard then old school texting on a regular remote. I'd say the picture in picture and search options are my fav parts. Its integrated with my DISH DVR so it pulls up more in a search result and lets me do more things than without DISH services. Definitely a great purchase on my end! :)
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