Samsung has finally demonstrated its SE-208BW Smart Media Hub, which was originally announced in September. The device offers the same basic functionality as many other media hubs, however it adds a CD/DVD burner. Users can stream audio CDs or DVD content over Wi-Fi networks to play on smartphones, tablets or PCs.
Samsung on Monday began offering a beta version of its long-ago announced Media Hub video service app. Interested parties can sign up for the trial and a small group will receive a free $25 voucher to purchase movies or TV shows from the Media Hub. Initially, however, only those with the AT&T version of the Galaxy S II are eligible.
Most of those who have failed at tablets and other home electronics were too focused on the hardware alone, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos said in an interview following the launch of the Kindle Fire tablet. He explained to TechCrunch that Amazon would do well with the Kindle Fire because it treated the Android slate as an "end-to-end service," not just an isolated design. It was the software and the content that defined a tablet, and those who didn't create a complete effect have struggled.
Samsung as part of its Galaxy Tab unveiling we attended tonight kicked off the launch of Media Hub, a companion video store for its devices. The initial version will offer movies and day-after TV shows from NBC, Paramount, Universal and Warner, with more expected later. Content is DRM-protected but can be shared between five phones or tablets.
On Friday, Popcorn Hour announced its sole product, the Popcorn Hour A-100 digital media streaming device, can now be pre-ordered on the company's web store. The A-100 allows for streaming digital media from users' PCs via a wide range of connectivity options, digital cameras or USB mass storage devices or directly from the Internet via its integrated Media Service Portal. The A-100 supports high-bitrate video formats, including DivX and Matroska, as well as subtitle files, with firmware upgradeable to future codecs.
