The Digital Media Zone: Recent Episodes
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DirecTV is acquiring Dish Network, Sonos is attempting to rebuild trust, Spotify has a new AI playlist generator, SteelSeries announces gaming earbuds, and Meta announces the Meta Quest 3S.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #661.
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Show Notes* DirecTV to acquire rival Dish Network for $1, subject to regulatory approval * Here’s how Sonos hopes to win back your trust after its app debacle * AI Playlist Is Rolling Out in Beta in the US, Canada, Ireland, and New Zealand—Get Started With These Pro Tips * SteelSeries is launching $160 gaming earbuds for your Xbox, PlayStation, or PC – The Verge * The Meta Quest 3S vs Meta Quest 2 and Meta Quest 3: Finding a happy medium + Buy on Amazon
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #661 – Meta Quest 3S Lowers the Cost of VR appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
It’s arrived! So this week, we discuss if you should buy the Google TV Streamer. Roku also announced the new Roku Ultra. YouTube is bringing even more ads to the television experience. Bose released a new version of the QuietComfort Earbuds, and Steam Families is a new and easy way to share a Steam PC game library with your whole family.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #660.
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Show Notes* Over a million Android TV streaming boxes infected by Vo1d malware * Synology EOL Video Station + Reduce HEVC and VC1 Support in DSM 7.2.2 * Google TV Streamer vs Walmart Onn Pro: Which one should you buy? + Buy on Amazon * The new Roku Ultra is faster, has better Wi-Fi, and comes with a backlit remote – The Verge + Buy on Amazon * YouTube confirms your pause screen is now fair game for ads – The Verge * Bose’s new noise-canceling QuietComfort Earbuds are more affordable at $179 + Buy on Amazon * Steam Families library sharing is live, and you can all play at the same time
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #660 – Should You Buy the Google TV Streamer? appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
This week, Josh is joined by Joe DeStazio to examine how the history of video game generations may guide the future. A lot has changed over the last two generations, and the guys wonder if we might be in for a major shake-up.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #659.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/95dipqtzvns7e953/ent20-episode659.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* Colorblind Curse game by Joe DeStazio
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #659 – Predicting Next-Gen Video Game Consoles appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Panasonic is back in the high-end television game with the Z95A OLED TV. The Philips Hue Sync Box 8K brings immersive lighting to your television and next-gen gaming sessions. Sony announced the PlayStation 5 Pro at an eye-watering price!
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #658.
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Show Notes* Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter/Receiver * Panasonic’s Surprise New OLED TV: Hands-On With the $3,200 Z95A – CNET * Philips launching Hue Sync Box 8K, updated Google Home integration, support for multiple bridges * Sony unveils its PS5 Pro console, which will cost you a whopping $700
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #658 – Panasonic’s New OLED TV appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
DirecTV is trying to change how video providers pay for content, but viewers can’t watch Disney or ESPN because of the fight. ESPN has solved the complicated problem of finding where to watch your favorite team. Apple is playing hardball with volume controls. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro might be the best Xbox controller of all time!
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #657.
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Show Notes* DIRECTV: Disney Blackout Not ‘Run-of-the-Mill Dispute’ Due to Price Gouging-Like Practices * ESPN ‘Where to Watch’ feature helps find where to stream sporting events – The Verge * Apple Broke a Key Spotify Connect Feature – Thurrott.com * Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review: The closest thing we have to perfection right now | Windows Central
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #657 – When DirecTV Fights Disney Viewers Lose appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Fubo blocks sports stream Venu. The JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds are packed with features including Auracast. The Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 3 headset looks exactly like what Josh has been waiting for. You can pre-order the latest Xbox game consoles.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #656.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/4ra7y6avwyrdu8e6/ent20-episode656.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, Fox Press for Quick Appeal of Venu Streaming Sports Venture Shutdown * The JBL Tour Pro 3 earbuds come with a case that can transmit audio wirelessly * Turtle Beach’s new Stealth 700 gaming headset has two USB dongles – The Verge * Microsoft Announces October Release Date for All-Digital Xbox Series X – IGN * Jia’s YouTube Video
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #656 – Can’t Wait for the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Is the newly announced Google TV Streamer the replacement to Chromecast and NVIDIA SHIELD that we’ve been longing for? Venu Sports, the soon-to-launch live sports video streaming service, finally has a price. Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ are all about to receive price increases. The sloppy roll-out of the new Sonos app has deeper repercussions than we knew. Richard has also been testing the new SwitchBot Universal Remote.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #655.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/i6d989z2rnjkwdru/ent20-episode655.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* What happened to the Sonos app? A technical analysis * We Are Legion (We Are Bob) by Dennis E. Taylor – Audiobook – Audible.com * Google TV Streamer is Official, Will Replace The Now-Discontinued Chromecast Devices * Live sports streamer Venu Sports will cost $42.99 per month – The Verge * Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ prices increase by up to 25 percent in October * Sonos delays two new products as it races to fix buggy app – The Verge * Sonos Roadmap * SwitchBot Universal Remote | Control Infrared Appliances – SwitchBot US
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #655 – Google TV Streamer appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The Hisense CanvasTV beautifully looks like artwork when you’re not watching Netflix. You can now get the Disney+, Hulu, Max bundle. Spotify’s CEO has given us some hints about what to expect when the HiFi tier launches, including a price. The streaming audio company also returned unlimited lyric usage back to the free plan.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #654.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/hxrnqbncmewfk72p/ent20-episode654.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* The Disney Plus, Hulu, and Max streaming bundle is now available – The Verge * Hisense’s CanvasTV is just like Samsung’s Frame but costs a lot less – The Verge * Spotify CEO confirms a ‘deluxe’ version with hi-fi audio is coming soon – The Verge * Spotify lyrics are back for free users
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #654 – Hisense CanvasTV and Spotify Hifi’s Price appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
We help Kyle find a soundbar. The Dallas Stars are starting a free video streaming service called Victory+ to air their hockey games. Redbox is shutting down. Sling TV is adding 4k content for free. Xbox is deeply discounting Xbox 360 games before closing the store.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #653.
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Show Notes* Best Soundbar for 2024 – CNET * Klipsch Cinema 400 Soundbar * Dallas Stars depart Bally Sports, go DTC with Victory+ streaming service * Say goodbye to Redbox * Sling TV adds 4K streaming for free – The Verge * Final Update: Price Reductions Available Now on the Digital Xbox 360 Store – Closing July 29, 2024
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #653 – Free 4K Hockey and Olympics on Sling TV appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
SkyDance is merging with Paramount and plans to make big changes to the streaming service. Amazon Fire TV and Sling both display ads when pausing content. Xbox is shaking up its Game Pass offerings while increasing prices. It’s a great time to pick up an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #652.
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Show Notes* Paramount and Skydance will merge to create new tech-media giant * Incoming Paramount Owners Lay Out Company Vision; Paramount+ Rebuild on the Way * Fire TV Users Are Now Seeing Full-Screen Ads Before Screensavers Start * Sling TV is the latest streamer to get those pesky pause ads – The Verge * Xbox Game Pass is getting MAJOR changes, with a new tier without day one games, and a range of price increases | Windows Central * Fire TV Stick 4k $24.99 * Fire TV Stick 4k Max $34.99
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #652 – Three Gross Reasons appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Allison Sheridan from Podfeet Podcasts joins us to discuss the more problematic side of home automation—when things don’t work as expected or desired. What’s annoying us in our respective smart homes and how do we deal with problems when they arise? Why do we even put ourselves through all this? We also touch on a few interesting smart home stories from the past few months.
Listen to the episode here or download it.
https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/thedigitalmediazone/homeon-ep158.mp3You’ll also find the show in these places:
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Show Links* Smart lighting company Brilliant is looking for a buyer * The NEW Sonos App is Here: 5 Things You Need To Know * Insteon app update adds keypad scene control * Saving Water in California with a Hot Water Recirculation Pump * How to Control Multiple HomeKit Automations from One Switch * Everything good starts at Podfeet.com! * Listen to the NosillaCast Podcast and subscribe to the Podfeet podcasts
Home: On is part of Technology.FM, a curated collection of technology podcasts, including great shows like The HomeTech Podcast, The Spoon Podcast, and The Smart Home Show, co-hosted by Richard with Adam Justice.
The post Home: On #158 – Smarthome Quibbles with Allison Sheridan appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Spotify is bringing back the previous prices, but you won’t like how they’re doing it. Tidal is standardizing their high-res and spatial audio formats. You can now play Xbox games on the Fire TV devices. Paramount Plus is offering a sweet deal before raising prices, while Verizon starts offering discounted streaming bundles.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #651.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/nix3kmi7t8zfzf5t/ent20-episode651.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* A year of Paramount Plus with Showtime is half off ahead of its impending price hike – The Verge * Verizon Launching New Home Internet Packages with Streaming Bundles * So long, Jabra earbuds, it’s not your fault * Spotify’s Basic plan returns to $11 a month by cutting audiobooks * Tidal is dropping MQA compatibility and banking on Dolby Atmos * Xbox Cloud Gaming is Coming to Fire TV Stick 4K
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #651 – Spotify Is Making Me Want To Leave appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Apple announced useful new features for the Apple TV. Spotify is adding more personalization to the service. Jabra’s new Elite earbuds offer a charging case with an amazing new feature. Xbox finally had good news to celebrate. The Zotac Zone looks like an impressive competitor to the Steam Deck OLED.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #650.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/9wdg9xkvem5yus97/ent20-episode650.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* TVOS 18: Search by Actor, Idle With Snoopy Screensaver – CNET * Spotify will start showing you personalized banners and messages based on your listening habits * Jabra updated its Elite earbuds with an LE Audio case, improved ANC and more + Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 + Jabra Elite 10 Gen 2 * Xbox Games Showcase and Black Ops 6 Direct June 2024: Everything Announced – IGN * Hands-on: Zotac’s Zone is a truly unique Steam Deck OLED challenger | PCWorld
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #650 – Congratulations on Your Life appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Max and Spotify are raising prices. Spotify is refunding Car Thing purchasers. The Asus Rog Ally X is quite the refresh for the portable gaming PC. Sony is releasing hardware to connect the PSVR2 to a PC, but of course it’s going to cost you. NVIDIA G-Assist brings AI assistance to PC gaming, but at what cost?
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #649.
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Show Notes* You can grab a year of Peacock Premium for just $20 ahead of its impending price hike – The Verge * Max just raised subscription prices again * Spotify is Now Offering Refunds for its Discontinued Car Thing * Spotify is raising the cost of Premium subscriptions, again * The Asus ROG Ally X is official — and I took a peek inside – The Verge * Sony’s PSVR 2 PC adapter launches in August – The Verge * NVIDIA’s latest AI feature is in-game help
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #649 – Price Increases, the ROG Ally X, and G-Assist appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The mega sports streaming service launching later this year has a name. It’s Venu Sports. Comcast is bundling Netflix, Apple TV+, and Peacock for one low price. Sonos announced the Ace headphones and the Roam 2. Assassin’s Creed Shadows will launch on Mac. The Proteus is a new Xbox controller aimed at solving physical accessibility issues.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #648.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/t3gayqrijctuszd5/ent20-episode648.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* Venu Sports is the name for the ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. streaming service – The Verge * Comcast’s bundle of Netflix, Apple TV+ and Peacock Premium costs $15 per month * Sonos Ace headphones hands-on: Joining your home theater setup with the push of a button * The Sonos Roam 2 fixes the original speaker’s confusing button setup * Macs will get support for the upcoming Assassin’s Creed Shadows RPG game | iMor * Xbox Cloud Gaming now has mouse and keyboard support in 26 games – The Verge * Microsoft announces the Proteus Controller, a gamepad for Xbox gamers with disabilities – The Verge
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #648 – Dark Days for Sonos appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Disney, Hulu, and Max will soon be available in a bundle. Spotify is removing features from free users. The new Sonos app is a huge disappointment. WiiM has two new wireless audio streaming devices. Xbox shuttered multiple game studios. Xbox publishers are offering massive discounts on Xbox 360 before the store closes.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #647.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/2eskc8csxn3tf3qq/ent20-episode647.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* onn. Google TV 4K Pro Streaming Device (New, 2024), 4K UHD resolution, Dolby Vision & Dolby ATMOS, Hands-Free Voice Control, Smart Hub – Walmart.com * A Disney, Hulu, and Max streaming bundle is on the way – The Verge * Spotify is Restricting Lyrics to Premium Members * Many People Do Not Like the New Sonos App * WiiM announces two new wireless audiophile streamers — one with a touchscreen – The Verge * Price Reductions Available Now on the Digital Xbox 360 Store – Closing July 29, 2024
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #647 – Powerhouse Streaming Bundle appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
We’re expecting Google to announce a successor to the Chromecast 4k with Google TV in a couple of weeks, but Walmart’s new Onn Pro Google TV may be an even more compelling streaming device. Peacock is raising its prices right before the service starts airing the summer Olympic Games. Sonos is about to launch a completely redesigned app.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #646.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/7eqm3zbfsk3zbba2/ent20-episode646.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* Walmart’s ‘Pro’ Google TV box will cost $50 with 32GB storage, always-on Assistant * Source: 4K Chromecast with Google TV sequel is coming with new remote * Peacock is getting a $2 price increase – The Verge * The rebuilt Sonos app focuses on getting you to your tunes faster
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #646 – Onn Pro Google TV appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Disney+ has integrated Hulu into its platform, offering a combined content library with new subscription plans. Peacock is gRoku’s new Pro Series TVs, which are available now. EA is increasing the price of the EA Play game subscription service. Gamers are spending most of their time playing older games.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #645.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/uxhuyznye6jpgqcr/ent20-episode645.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* Roku releases its line of premium-ish TVs with Mini LED backlighting * The EA Play subscription service is getting more expensive * Gamers Mostly Played Older Games like GTA 5 and Fortnite in 2023 – IGN
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #645 – Roku Pro Series TVs, EA Play Price Increase, and Gamers Opt for Older Games appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Disney+ has integrated Hulu into its platform, offering a combined content library with new subscription plans. Peacock is gearing up to provide extensive and interactive coverage of the 2024 Paris Olympics, promising over 5,000 hours of live action with enhanced viewing options. Meanwhile, Xbox Cloud Gaming is expanding its accessibility by introducing mouse and keyboard support for select games.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #644.
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Show Notes* Hulu on Disney+ officially launches, bringing together Mickey Mouse and The Handmaid’s Tale * Peacock’s 2024 Paris Olympics coverage includes enhanced multiview options * Xbox Insiders Can Now Test Out Mouse and Keyboard Support on Xbox Cloud Gaming – IGN
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #644 – Hulu Content Arrives on Disney+ appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
YouTube is making a divisive change to the playback experience on TV devices. Spotify is trying its hand at music videos. Sony’s bet at virtual reality with the PS VR2 doesn’t appear to be working out.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #643.
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Show Notes* YouTube player redesign on TVs adds dual-column UI for comments & more * Spotify now has music videos – The Verge * Sony may have paused PS VR2 production to clear a backlog of unsold units
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #643 – YouTube’s TV Redesign appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Apple TV+ is adding movies to the video streaming service for no additional cost. Tidal is simplifying its hi-fi audio streaming service and actually reducing the cost! Spotify announces a new audiobook-focused plan. Microsoft announces a new tool to make it easier for game developers to implement super resolution.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #642.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/i7yfst/ent20-episode642.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* Apple TV Plus adds over 50 movies, including some in 4K and 3D – The Verge * Tidal cuts $9 from the price of its hi-fi audio streaming plan * Spotify rolls out an audiobook-only subscription * Microsoft plans to streamline game upscaling across different graphics cards * Jia’s Movie Trailer – School of Shadows
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #642 – Tidal Does the Unimaginable appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The LG C4 and G4 OLED TVs will be available next month, and now we know how much they’ll cost. Changes have been announced to how DRM in ATSC 3.0 can be handled by DVR manufacturers, which could finally bring the 4k OTA TV to your home network. Nvidia GeForce Now is showing ads on the free tier. Xbox Cloud Gaming may soon support cloud-based streaming of your entire library of games.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #641.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/e9vqqw/ent20-episode641.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Notes* LG’s New 2024 OLED TVs Arrive Next Month Starting at $1,500 – CNET * A3SA Announces Changes to ATSC 3.0 DRM Rules * Nvidia GeForce Now will start showing ads to free users * Xbox Gamers May Finally Get to Stream the Games They Own This Year
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #641 – DRM Changes for ATSC 3.0 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Walmart is buying Vizio, and it’s not about TV hardware. Amazon Prime Video hid that they are now charging for Dolby Vision and Atmos. Disney Movie Club is ending. Auracast is coming to more devices, and Xbox is clarifying their strategy.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #640.
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Show Notes* Walmart to acquire smart TV maker Vizio for $2.3 billion in bid to boost its advertising business | AP News * Amazon Removes Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos From Prime Video’s Basic Tier * It’s about to get even harder to buy some of Disney’s weirdest movies on Blu-ray * Samsung is upgrading a bunch of audio capabilities on its phones, tablets and earbuds * Everything Announced In The Big Xbox Podcast * Sea of Thieves Coming to PlayStation 5 in April as Xbox Confirms the Four Exclusives Headed to Other Platforms – IGN * Sony is Working on PC Support for its PS VR2 Headset
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #640 – The Answer is Always Ads appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
ESPN, Warner, and Fox Sports are combining efforts to make a sports streaming powerhouse. You can now rent movies from Plex. YouTube TV finally allows you to choose which sports events to watch in Multiview. Microsoft may put AAA exclusives on PlayStation. Is the internet justified in freaking out?
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Click here to download episode #639.
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Show Notes* Warner Bros. are putting together a juggernaut sports streaming app – The Verge * Welcome to Rental Land on Plex * YouTube TV adding ‘Build a Multiview’ to let you pick which four games to watch at once * Microsoft may bring Bethesda’s Starfield and Indiana Jones games to the PS5 after all
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #639 – Streaming Sports Panacea? appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The Apple Vision Pro won’t have native apps for Netflix, YouTube, or Spotify. Netflix will air Monday Night Raw live. Plex aims to offer paid movies and TV. RTX 4070 Ti Super reviewed.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #638.
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Show Notes* Netflix Confirms it Won’t Have an App for the Apple Vision Pro * YouTube and Spotify Also Won’t Have an Apple Vision Pro App * Netflix will be the new home of WWE’s flagship show, Monday Night Raw, in 2025 * Plex will launch paid movies, TV shows next month * Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti Super review: not very super – The Verge
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #638 – RPGs for Babies appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
This week, the guys talk about all the biggest news from CES. They start with the latest TVs from LG, Samsung, Hisense, and TCL. Amazon is investing in Diamond Sports Group to save the Bally sports networks. Google is making it faster to pair Bluetooth headphones with Google TV while also making it easier to switch audio devices. After covering those, Josh digs into the rest of the gaming news from CES 2024. NVIDIA and AMD have new GPUs. There are more amazing gaming monitors. The ROG Zepherus G14 rose above the other gaming laptops. NVIDIA adds G-Sync and day passes to GeForce Now.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Wednesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #636.
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Show Notes* Breaking: Amazon Invests in Diamond Sports Group; Prime Video to Become Home of Bally Sports+ – The Streamable * Fast Pair rolling out to Chromecast with Google TV next month * Google TV is adding a faster way to switch to and from Bluetooth headphones * Nvidia’s RTX 4080 Super arrives on January 31st at a more reasonable $999 – The Verge * Nvidia RTX 4070 Super review: a super performance bump for $599 – The Verge * AMD Announces 1440p-Ready 7600 XT Desktop GPU – IGN * The 5 best monitors at CES 2024 | Tom’s Guide * I saw many gaming laptops at CES 2024 but the redesigned Zephyrus G14 is my pick of the bunch | PC Gamer * NVIDIA is bringing streaming day passes and G-Sync to GeForce Now
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #637 – CES 2024 Gaming appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
This week, the guys talk about all the biggest news from CES. They start with the latest TVs from LG, Samsung, Hisense, and TCL. Before covering traditional headphones from Sennheiser and JLab, they discuss a device that could be a game changer for people with hearing loss. Samsung also announced the Music Frame. MSI jumps into portable gaming with the MSI Claw. And Apple tried to steal the spotlight by announcing shipping details for the Apple Vision Pro.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #636.
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Show Notes* Best TVs of CES 2024 – CNET * OrCam Hear hands-on: A surprisingly effective voice isolation platform for people with hearing loss * Sennheiser Momentum 4 and Momentum Sport hands-on: Excellent sound in two very different earbuds * JLab’s first premium ANC headphones will cost just $80 * Samsung Music Frame hands-on: A speaker to match your Frame TV * MSI Claw hands-on: the Steam Deck rival with Intel inside – The Verge * Original Xbox’s Controller S Remade as a Modern Gamepad Called the DuchesS – IGN * Apple Vision Pro Available February 2
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #636 – CES 2024 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Companies are releasing more and more news ahead of CES this year. Roku is debuting new premium televisions. LG dropped details about their 2024 OLED TVs. Samsung announced three new OLED gaming monitors. Josh and Richard also give some of their predictions for this space in 2024.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #635.
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Show Notes* Roku’s ‘high-end’ Pro Series TVs feature Mini LED screens * LG OLED TVs Promise Better Picture Thanks to AI Processing – CNET * Samsung’s OLED gaming monitors now come in more shapes, sizes, and up to 360Hz – The Verge
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #635 – CES 2024 Preview appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
This week, we look back at our favorites of 2023. We discuss our favorite TV shows, movies, albums, and video games. We also talk about the news highlights and trends from the year.
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Click here to download episode #634.
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #634 – 2023 Favorites appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
YouTube is going to reduce the frequency of ads, but it’s going to make them longer. YouTube TV is finally adding a shortcut to viewing the last channel you viewed. Google Podcasts has a migration tool. Xbox Cloud Gaming is on Meta Quest VR headsets.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #633.
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Show Links* YouTube will have fewer ad breaks on TV — but the ads are getting longer – The Verge * YouTube TV adding a button shortcut to switch between last-viewed channels * Google Podcasts Migration Tool is Now Available in the U.S. – Thurrott.com * Xbox Cloud Gaming is now available on Meta’s Quest VR headsets
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #633 – Click ‘em All appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Hulu as a main category. The annual gaming expo E3 has been canceled for the third year in a row, signaling the end of an era for the industry. Xbox hinted at an ad-supported model for cloud gaming in some markets.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #631.
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Show Links* Apple tvOS 17.2 has a redesigned TV experience and no iTunes Movies or TV Shows apps * Disney Plus and Hulu’s one-app experience is launching in beta – The Verge * E3 Is Dead for Good – IGN * Xbox Exec Suggests New Ad-Supported Model for Xbox Cloud Gaming
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #632 – E3 is Dead appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Walmart is selling a new Google TV streaming stick for an unbelievable price. The WiiM Amp outdoes the Sonos Amp for less than half the price. You can now play PC Game Pass games on Nvidia GeForce Now. YouTube announces Playables, a way to play simple games in the YouTube app.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #631.
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Show Links* Walmart’s new Onn Google TV streaming stick is just $15 – The Verge * The WiiM Amp is a stream-everything receiver with Mac Mini vibes – The Verge * Nvidia’s GeForce Now gets support for PC Game Pass with Xbox account syncing – The Verge * YouTube’s Playables games are now available for Premium subscribers – The Verge
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #631 – Aggressive Controller User appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Josh is finally back to cover the latest consumer entertainment tech news with Richard! On this week’s show, they discuss Max removing features from grandfathered plans, Amazon placing even more advertisements into the Fire TV interface, and Apple TV Plus’ big price increases. In the audio news, Spotify allows premium subscribers to listen to audiobooks. On the gaming front, the Meta Quest 3 is available now, and the Steam Deck OLED fixes many of the issues with the original portable gaming PC.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #630.
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Show Links* Max is taking 4K away from its legacy ad-free subscribers * Amazon Enshittifies the Fire TV User Interface with Even More Ads – Thurrott.com * Apple TV Plus is getting a price hike — and other Apple subscriptions are, too – The Verge * Spotify Premium subscribers can now listen to over 200000 audiobooks for free * Meta Quest 3 Review – IGN * Review: Steam Deck OLED’s brilliant screen fixes the portable’s biggest flaw | Ars Technica
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #630 – Streaming Shrinkflation appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
We’re at something of a tipping point in the video industry as Charter discontinues cable boxes for its Spectrum TV service, Best Buy plans to stop selling physical video media, and YouTube and Netflix vie to dominate the streaming space. The HomeTech Podcast’s Gavin Campbell joins Richard again to run through this news and catch you up on what’s happening in their entertainment centers.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #629.
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Show Links* Best Buy is exiting the physical media business for good in 2024 * Spectrum is Ditching Traditional Cable TV & Is Going Streaming Only For New TV Customers * Here comes another Netflix price hike * Apple TV+ share compared to other streaming platforms in the US * PS5 cloud streaming details: launch dates and bandwidth requirements
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #629 – Video Industry Changes with Gavin Campbell appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Max expands its offerings, Sonos uses a new generation of its portable Move speaker to raise prices again, and are you ready for console games on your new iPhone? Josh is traveling this week, but Gavin Campbell from the HomeTech Podcast joins Richard to run through the latest digital entertainment news on this episode of Entertainment 2.0. And they even talk about gaming!
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #628.
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Show Links* Max will reportedly start offering free sports later this year * Google Sets Date for Removal of Google Play Movies and TV App From Android TV * Sennheiser Ambeo Mini Is a Cheaper Dolby Atmos Soundbar * Sonos Announces Move 2 Portable Speaker * Sony Raises Price of PlayStation Plus 12-Month Subscriptions Across All Tiers * Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Death Stranding and Resident Evil Village are coming to iPhone 15 Pro * YouTube adds playable games for select users to try
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #628 – Sports to the Max with Gavin Campbell appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Lutron has announced a new Pico remote with the form factor of a traditional paddle switch.
The post Lutron Introduces Paddle-Style Pico Remote appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Emby is resurrecting Windows Media Center. Tablo has a new OTA DVR. CNN tries streaming again. Marshall brings Bluetooth LE audio to their newest earbuds. Sony announces the PlayStation Portal.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #627 – The Return of Windows Media Center appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Jeff Butts, Managing Editor at The Mac Observer joins us. We ponder why Signify would want to get into the security game (and why consumers would want them to), discuss some updates on previously reported news, and dive into a discussion about the current state of HomeKit. New architectures, Shortcuts, and Matter…and what’s with this Works with Apple Home thing? It’s all getting kind of messy.
The post Home: On #157 – Pondering HomeKit with Jeff Butts from The Mac Observer appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Amazon Music Unlimited gets pricier for Prime members, Microsoft makes cloud gaming concessions for the UK, and the Xbox 360 store is shutting down.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #626 – Cloud Gaming Concessions appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Disney Plus and Hulu raise prices. YouTube adds 1080p enhanced and multiview streaming Younify makes it easier to find your shows, and Patreon comes to Spotify.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #625 – Who Needs Enhanced 1080p? appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Netflix and Xbox are killing services, Peacock, YouTube, and Spotify are increasing rates. Xbox Live Gold gets rebranded.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #624 – Raising Rates and Killing Services appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Microsoft’s fight with the FTC is over, clearing the path to negotiations with the UK’s CMA. Netflix simplified account switching. Plex lays off 20% more of their staff. Tidal switches to FLAC while raising prices.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #623 – Microsoft Beats the FTC appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The Spotify HiFi price may not be competitive, the Netflix crackdown is working, Xbox prices are increasing, and Meta introduced a VR game subscription service.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #622 – Spotify HiFi Price appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Apple Vision Pro augmented reality headset was announced right after Meta Quest 3. Western Digital now sells Xbox expansion cards. 8BitDo has a new fighting stick for Xbox.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #621 – Apple Vision Pro appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Netflix has started cracking down on people who share their passwords. Comcast has a new live TV streaming service. YouTube is adding unskippable 30-second ads, and the only legit alternative is problematic. Sony announced a new handheld gaming device, but they haven’t made a good case for it yet.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #620.
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Show Links* Netflix’s password-sharing crackdown is here — and it costs $7.99 per month – The VergeEverything You Need to Know About Max When Service Launches on May 23 * Comcast reveals Now TV, a cable-lite streaming package for $20 a month – The Verge * Comment: YouTube Premium needs a more affordable option as ads keep getting worse * Apple releases Apple Music Classical for Android before iPad or Mac apps – 9to5Mac * Sony Announces PlayStation Handheld to Put Razer Edge to Shame – IGN
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #620 – I Am NOT Paying for YouTube. Period. appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
MyHomeKithome YouTuber and podcast host Dustin Boggus joins Richard to talk about accessibility in the smarthome. Sure, it’s fun and futuristic to have lights and digital assistants that obey your commands and react to your presence…but what if your ability to work and live safely in your own environment depended upon it? Dustin shares his experiences with specific technologies and products and shares some thoughts about what more the industry could be doing. Oh, and this episode was recorded some time ago, so we also talk about some now … fairly old industry news.
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Show Links* Jenny Tuohy reviews the Tovala Smart Oven Air Fryer * Hubitat Elevation C-8 released * Insteon had sold out of i3 devices, but new stock is now available * Check out the Controller for HomeKit app * Check out Dustin’s YouTube channel, MyHomeKithome * Follow MyHomeKithome on Twitter at @MyHomeKithome * Read Dustin’s reviews and posts at MyHomeKithome.com
Home: On is listed at Technology.FM, a curated collection of technology podcasts, including great shows like The HomeTech Podcast, The Spoon Podcast, and The Smart Home Show, co-hosted by Richard with Adam Justice.
Featured ProductsIf you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
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Netflix is killing off its DVD business while making important improvements to its ad-supported tier. Google TV is getting updates to help it run better on low-power devices. Walmart launched a new Google TV streaming box. YouTube Music added podcasts. UK’s antitrust regulator blocked Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #619.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/2jm8de/ent20-episode619.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* Netflix is shutting down its original DVD business after 25 years – The Verge * Netflix Rolls Out Improved Video Quality, Other Changes to Ad-Supported Plan; Changes Lower-Priced Tier’s Name – The Streamable * Google TV update rolling out with performance boost, frees up storage with app hibernation * Review: Walmart’s new Google TV box is the best deal in streaming * YouTube Music officially launching podcasts in the US on Android, iOS, and web * UK regulator blocks Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard merger over cloud concerns | Engadget * Get Ready for the Xbox Games Showcase and Starfield Direct Double Feature Airing June 11
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The post Netflix Kills DVD Business and the UK Kills Activision Acquisition appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
HBO Max and Discovery+ are combining as one service named Max. Google TV is adding over 800 free channels to their TV guide. YouTube has announced pricing details for the NFL Sunday Ticket. The ASUS ROG Ally looks like the best Steam Deck competitor yet. E3 was canceled, but will it ever return? Kobo’s new subscription service fills in the holes left by Kindle Unlimited.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #618.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/snnez3/ent20-episode618.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* What Max Launch Means for Existing HBO Max Customers * Google TV takes on Roku with over 800 free TV channels | Engadget * YouTube’s NFL Sunday Ticket Starts at $249 for Subscribers With Early Deal, $349 This Fall * YouTube livestreaming all Coachella stages for 2023 * ASUS’ ROG Ally is yet another Steam Deck competitor | Engadget * ESA Head Blames E3 Cancellation on Wider Industry Challenges, Won’t Say If Event Will Return – IGN * Kobo’s all-you-can-read subscription coming to the US could challenge Amazon – The Verge
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The post HBO Max and Discovery+ Become Max appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Diamond Sports Group, owners of Bally Sports, are struggling to stay afloat. What does that mean if Bally broadcasts your favorite sports team? YouTube TV is increasing prices again, but it’s not all bad news this time. Spotify still hasn’t launched its HiFi plan yet. Why not? Josh also played with Spotify DJ. Ubisoft is the latest major video game publisher to announce they won’t officially be at E3.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #617.
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Show Links* NHL Commissioner Assures Fans Bally Sports, AT&T SportsNets Games Will Air as Scheduled – The Streamable * Diamond Sports Commits to Broadcast NBA, NHL Through This Season; MLB Relationship Still Unresolved – The Streamable * YouTube TV raises its prices yet again | Engadget * Spotify is Keeping its HiFi Plan on Hold Due to “Industry Changes” – Thurrott.com * Ubisoft Pulls Out of E3 2023 After Previously Committing to the Show – IGN
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The post Will Bally Sports Keep the Lights On? appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
A new app called March Madness Live is giving you the ability to watch multiple college basketball games at the same time. We have all the information you need to ensure you don’t miss a single game. Roku has released a new version of their streaming software that focuses on live news, sports, and what you want to watch next. Apple is finally launching the classical music streaming app. Sony is making more ridiculous claims about Microsoft. Eating a chicken sandwich could get you early access to Diablo IV. Microsoft won’t have a booth at E3.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #616.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/di6d9g/ent20-episode616.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* March Madness Live brings multiview streaming to the web for up to four games | Engadget * YouTube TV Bringing Multiview to March Madness – CNET * Roku Announces a New Roku Experience – Thurrott.com * Apple will launch its standalone classical music app on March 28th * Sony is worried that Microsoft will sabotage Call of Duty for the PlayStation – The Verge * Get Diablo IV beta early access when you buy a KFC Double Down – The Verge * Xbox Confirms It Won’t be on E3 2023 Showfloor – IGN
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #616 – Now Would Be a Good Time appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Sony unveils their latest televisions, including the new Sony A95L QD-OLED. Movies Anywhere is removing one of their most unique features. Sonos announced the Era 300 and Era 100 speakers.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #615.
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Show Links* Sony QD-OLED TV Amps Up Brightness, Tones Down Reflections – CNET * Movies Anywhere is ending its movie sharing and Watch Together features – The Verge * Sonos is betting big on spatial audio with the $450 Era 300 speaker | Engadget * Sonos speakers will support Apple Music spatial audio starting March 28th | Engadget
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The post Entertainment 2.0 #615 – Big as a 4-Slice Toaster appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Amazon makes an infuriating money grab for Ring app features you’ve been using for years, Sonos is expected to use a product launch as an opportunity to raise prices again, and Leviton will be rolling matter support out to 2nd generation Decora Smart products with a firmware update. Finally, several quarters in now, what’s Insteon Technologies up to? Co-founder Richard Sudek joins us to share the latest on Insteon products and services, talk about some new products, and give us a glimpse at what’s in their sights for the future. Cue Richard Gunther’s standard Insteon disclaimer.
Listen to the episode here or download it.
https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/thedigitalmediazone/homeon-ep155.mp3You’ll also find the show in these places:
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Show Links* Ring brazenly puts key camera features behind paywall * New Sonos Era speakers * Philips Hue Slim Downlights are now in stores * Leviton is adding Matter support for Gen2 Decora Smart dimmer and switch * Follow Insteon on Instagram at @insteon * Find out more about Insteon products at insteon.com
Home: On is listed at Technology.FM, a curated collection of technology podcasts, including great shows like The HomeTech Podcast, The Spoon Podcast, and The Smart Home Show, co-hosted by Richard with Adam Justice.
Featured ProductsIf you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
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The post Home: On #155 – Restarting Insteon with Richard Sudek from Insteon Technologies appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex will automatically skip the end credits of movies and TV shows in your personal media collection. Spotify is allowing you to partially train their algorithm. YouTube Music is giving you greater control over custom radio stations. Microsoft is bringing their games to Nvidia GeForce Now.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #614.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/wx5jzg/ent20-episode614.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* Let the next episode roll * Spotify now lets you exclude certain playlists from its recommendations – The Verge * YouTube Music’s redesigned radio experience allows you to create totally custom stations | Engadget * How Microsoft’s Nvidia deal works for gamers — with or without Activision * The Xbox February Update Rolls Out Today!
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #614 – Your Taste Profile appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
You can stream the Super Bowl in 4k for free! Peacock eliminated their free tier. Paramount+ is rebranding and trying an unusual growth strategy. Richard is really angry about YouTube TV dropping the MLB Network. The Netflix password-sharing crackdown has people up in arms. Netflix added spatial audio to over 700 movies and shows. Amazon Music Unlimited subscription prices are increasing. Should you be concerned about which of the three big publishers show up at E3? Samsung’s QD-OLED gaming monitor has a price, and we’ve got some thoughts about it.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #612.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/irnnm8/ent20-episode613.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* Confirmed: FOX to Stream Super Bowl LVII for Free in HD, 4K Without a Pay-TV Subscription – The Streamable * Exclusive: Peacock Drops Free Tier for New Sign-Ups, Will Only Offer Paid Plans to New Customers – The Streamable * Paramount+ Premium will absorb Showtime and rebrand as ‘Paramount+ With Showtime’ | Engadget * YouTube TV Drops MLB Network * How the end of Netflix password sharing will change the way families watch, especially the ones with college-age children * Netflix’s Premium Plan Adds Spatial Audio Support on All Devices – Thurrott.com * Amazon Music Unlimited is Getting a Price Hike in the US and UK – Thurrott.com * Exclusive: Xbox, Nintendo, and Sony Won’t Be Part of E3 2023 – IGN * Samsung’s first OLED gaming monitor costs $1499.99
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #613 – I Am Kind of a Rules Guy appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Tablo’s ATSC 3.0 DVR is indefinitely delayed. MGM+ has launched. HBO Max raised prices while cutting content. Apple TV and Apple Music are now Windows apps. The large Apple HomePod has returned!
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #612.
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Show Links* Tablo is Refunding Pre-Orders of ITs ATSC 3.0 DVR But Still Plans to Release It | Cord Cutters News * Amazon’s MGM+ goes live, has Google TV integration already * HBO Max’s first price hike raises the monthly rate by $1 – The Verge * Apple TV, Music Apps Coming to Windows; Preview Versions Available Now – The Streamable * Apple announces revamped full-size HomePod two years after discontinuing original – The Verge * Google releases Stadia Controller update to enable Bluetooth
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #612 – Uncharacteristically Nice appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Sports absolutely dominated broadcast television last year. fuboTV is kicking off the new year by raising prices. You’ll soon be able to rent movies through Plex. Google is working on innovative new audio technology. Apple is using “AI” to turn eBooks into audiobooks. The HTC Vive XR Elite looks to move VR and AR forward to the next level.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #611.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/r3ta87/ent20-episode611.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* All but Six of 2022’s Top-100 TV Broadcasts Were Sports; 82 Were NFL Games – The Streamable * fuboTV Raises Price by $5 Starting at $74.99 per Month, Replaces Ultra Plan with New Premier Plan – The Streamable * Plex Announces Movie Rental Platform Will be Available in Coming Months – The Streamable * Google to Bring New Audio Experiences to Android 13 – Thurrott.com * Apple’s new audiobook narration service uses AI voices | Engadget * Xbox and Bethesda to Present Developer_Direct Livestream on January 25 – Xbox Wire * HTC’s Standalone Headset is an Evolution For Virtual Reality – CNET
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #611 – Robotic Romance appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Josh is back to recap the biggest gaming tech news from CES 2023. Razer and Alienware have the most interesting new gaming laptops. Samsung has a couple of absolutely ludicrous computer monitors. Alienware and Asus ROG are competing in the refresh rate arms race. Razer unveils their portable game streaming handheld. PlayStation announced an accessible PS5 controller in Project Leonardo.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #610.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/katbah/ent20-episode610.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* Razer rounds out its laptop line with the high-spec Blade 16 and Blade 18 | Engadget * Alienware Unveils Its Thinnest and Most Powerful Gaming Laptops Yet – CNET * You’re Gonna Need a Bigger Desk: Samsung’s New Gaming Monitor Is a Beast – CNET * Alienware’s 500Hz Gaming Monitor Might Be the Fastest at CES – CNET * Asus ROG Swift Gaming Monitors Hit 540Hz, 240Hz OLED in 1440p – CNET * CES 2023: Razer Edge 5G is an impressive (and misguided) gaming handheld * PlayStation Announces Project Leonardo, an Accessibility Controller Kit for PS5 – IGN
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #610 – CES 2023 Gaming Tech appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The start of a new year means a plethora of announcements from across the technology space at CES! Josh and Richard are covering the show a little differently this year, and they’re podcasting about it differently, too. In this episode, they talk about the biggest and most interesting television and audio product announcements. There will be a separate podcast episode featuring gaming technology announcements.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #609.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/iafmqe/ent20-episode609.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* Best TVs of CES 2023 – CNET * JBL Bar 1300X hands-on: Impressive immersive sound via detachable speakers | Engadget * JBL debuts true wireless earbuds with a touchscreen ‘smart’ case | Engadget * Support for spatial audio arrives on the Google Pixel * Poly’s Voyager Free 60+ might be the slickest earbuds for work yet | Engadget
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #609 – CES 2023 TVs and Audio appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Richard once again joins other hosts from the Technology.FM podcasts to share in their annual tradition of the fireside chat. What caught their attention this year, what do they think will be big next year, and how did they fare with last year’s predictions? As always, this special DMZ mix offers fewer ums, fewer digital assistant triggers, and–perhaps most importantly–blocks Mike’s valiant attempt to trick your Echo into sending something very expensive to your home.
Listen to the episode here or download it.
https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/thedigitalmediazone/homeon-ep154.mp3You’ll also find the show in these places:
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Show LinksYour hosts this year:
- Seth Johnson from the HomeTech Podcast
- Adam Justice from ConnectSense and The Smart Home Show
- Richard Gunther from Home: On
- Gavin Campbell from the HomeTech Podcast
- TJ Huddleston from Connect You and the HomeTech Podcast
- Mike Wolf from The Spoon and The Spoon Podcast
Home: On is part of Technology.FM, a curated collection of technology podcasts, including great shows like The HomeTech Podcast, The Spoon Podcast, and The Smart Home Show, co-hosted by Richard with Adam Justice.
Inquire about sponsorship opportunities at info@thedigitalmediazone.com
The post Home: On #154 – Fireside 2022 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
DIRECTV STREAM plans to start 2023 the same way they started 2022: by raising prices. The FTC is bucking all logic and suing to block Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Microsoft is following the lead of other major publishers by raising game prices in 2023. LG has two new OLED gaming monitors launching soon.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #608.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/3qvvbw/ent20-episode608.mp3Subscribe to the Show* Subscribe via RSS * Subscribe via Apple Podcasts * Subscribe via Google Podcasts * Subscribe via Spotify * Subscribe via Pandora
Show Links* DIRECTV STREAM Price Hike Coming in January 2023, with Plans Starting at $74.99 per Month – The Streamable * FTC Sues to Block Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard Acquisition * Microsoft Raising Prices on New, First-Party Games Built for Xbox Series X|S to $70 in 2023 * LG LAUNCHES ULTRAGEAR GAMING MONITORS IN U.S. FEATURING WORLD’S FIRST 240HZ OLED PANEL – Dec 12, 2022 * Fosi Audio BT20A Bluetooth 5.0 Stereo Audio 2 Channel Amplifier
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #608 – Can’t Unrecommend It Enough appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex adds Discover Credits. Fios TV could be a modern Media Center. Amazon looks to rival ESPN programming, and Razer has a new customizable PS5 controller.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #607 – It’s All Math appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Channels DVR can use Tablo TV. Peacock brings locals channels. Netflix with ads doesn’t work on Apple TV. Slingbox is dead. PlayStation VR2 has a date and price.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #606 – RIP Slingbox appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The NVIDIA SHIELD is finally fixed. The new TCL 6-series TVs are out. It’s hard to buy audiobooks from Spotify, and Amazon Music expands their Prime offering.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #605 – Adele’s Going To Hate This appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Netflix adds ads, prices are increasing for Apple TV+, Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube Premium. Razer announces earbuds for gamers.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #604 – Rising Cost of Streaming appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Chamberlain kills its overpriced, unreliable HomeKit Home Bridge, Tado has a money-saving program that might use more energy, Lutron adds to its Caséta lineup, and everyone’s getting into Matter. HomeKit developer Matt Corey talks about some of the ways he’s using HomeKit, Shortcuts, and the Mac to help HomeKit users do more with smart lighting.
The post Home: On #153 – Sending Signals with Matt Corey appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The new Apple TV 4k has a giant surprise. Xbox wants to build a mobile game store. Logitech’s G Cloud gets reviewed while Razer announces the Edge.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #603 – New Apple TV 4k appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
You need to check your Amazon Drive. The NHL is back on ESPN+. Apple Music is on Xbox. Meta Quest is getting Xbox Cloud Gaming.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #602 – Shoehorned In appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Amazon announced a new Fire TV Cube, Google launches the Chromecast with Google TV HD, MGM is renaming Epix, Google is killing Stadia, and The Logitech G Cloud Gaming Handheld is real.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #601 – Jiffy Lube+ appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Roku announces a mini subwoofer at the same time as the Sonos Sub Mini. JBL has new Atmos soundbars. PlayStation throws a temper tantrum.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #600 – You Ruin Everything appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The new TCL 6-Series TV offers nice upgrades. Apple announces new AirPods Pro. The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core is a lower-cost version of the customizable controller.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #599 – If You’re ThinQing appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The Vizio M-Series Quantum X was reviewed. Sony’s got a new Atmos soundbar. LG unveiled a 240Hz curved OLED, and PlayStation 5 prices are increasing.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #598 – Theoretical Economics appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Three years after dropping Works with Nest support, Google has yet to deliver on its promise to offer similar smart home capabilities.
The post Google’s Broken Post-Works with Nest Promise…Three Years On appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
You’re moving into a new home, and you want to do things right from the start. Where do you begin? This is the situation Richard’s friend Kent Fellure finds himself in, and we’re delighted to talk with him about some options for security, lighting, HVAC, and more. And of course, Kent joins in some banter about this month’s smart home news from Wemo, Twinkly, and LIFX.
The post Home: On #152 – Starting Fresh with Kent Fellure appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex’s security breach, Google TV is getting faster, PlayStation VR2 won’t make the holidays and neither will their new controller, and new gaming headsets were announced.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #597 – Take One for the Team appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Amazon discontinues the Fire TV Recast, Disney+ and Hulu raise prices, Walmart Plus includes Paramount+, and Xbox announces Game Pass family plan.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #596 – Pay the Buck appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Samsung has announced the end of its Groovy development platform for SmartThings. This may impact some users as much as developers.
The post SmartThings Legacy Development Platform Is Going Away—Here’s What It Means for You appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Logitech announces a cloud gaming handheld, Roku Channel adds Paramount+, Spotify draws criticism, and PlayStation 5 gets 1440p support.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #595 – Logitech Cloud Gaming Handheld appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The NFL launches NFL+, Spotify killed Car Thing, Google is simplifying Bluetooth audio, and Microsoft found a dumb way to make the Xbox boot faster.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #594 – Sorry Spotify, I Told You So appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Vizio’s 2022 gaming TVs announced. Amazon Prime Video gets a facelift. Ad-supported Netflix may not have the complete library. Discord comes to Xbox.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #593 – Vizio’s 2022 Gaming TVs appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
What do you do when you hit a wall on your smart home projects? You can’t do something, don’t know something, or just don’t have the time. Robert Spivak of DoItForMe Solutions is here to help! That plus, of course, we discuss the latest news and updates from Philips Hue, Insteon, and Wink. Yep, Wink. They’re down. Again. Is it for good? They say No.
The post Home: On #151 – Some Help with Robert Spivack from DoItForMe Solutions appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
How to Fix Netflix on NVIDIA SHIELD after the experience 9.1 update.
The post How to Fix Netflix on NVIDIA SHIELD appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Movies are being removed from the PlayStation Store. Netflix added spatial audio. Bluetooth LE Audio is bringing awesome new features. Sega announced the Genesis Mini 2.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #592 – Blueplay appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
We've found the Amazon Prime Day deals on the devices to make your home entertainment, mobile entertainment, and gaming life better!
The post Amazon Prime Day Deals for Home Entertainment appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Spectrum is killing CableCARDs, NVIDIA SHIELD gets two useful features, Sony has new gaming headsets and monitors, and Xbox cloud streaming comes to Samsung TVs.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #591 – Stop Listening to the Haters appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Leviton has released a powerful, new scene controller that can command nearly every smart device in your home. As physical home controls go, this one checks all the right boxes—this is what we've been waiting for.
The post Leviton Adds Most Exciting DIY Smart Home Controller To Launch in Years appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
IKEA has a new smart home hub in the wings with yet another name we’ll all be trying to pronounce, Amazon ditches its old Cloud Cam but makes good on customers’ investments, and Insteon is back and under new management. Greg Rhoades from Leviton joins Richard on this episode to discuss all this plus his company’s recent push into the smart home with its latest generation of Decora Smart products.
The post Home: On #150 – Decora Smart with Greg Rhoades from Leviton appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Insteon's back. What do we know about the new company, the new management, and the challenges they may face?
The post It’s a New Day for Insteon. Again. appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
With Insteon gone, companies are stepping up to fill in the gaps for thousands of smart home customers. Rohan Karamandi, co-host of the Home Assistant Podcast joins us to discuss all of this. And we dive into why Home Assistant might just be the perfect solution for DIYers looking to give new life to their Insteon products.
The post Home: On #149 – A New Hope with Rohan Karamandi appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex launches an HTPC app. NESN 360 streams Boston sports. Profiles come to Google TV. Hey Sonos is here. Microsoft hasn’t given up on a streaming stick.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #590 – Not Technically Extortion appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
New Google TV screensaver rolling out, Sonos Ray is an affordable soundbar, the iPod is dead, Sony and Ubisoft announce games for PlayStation Plus.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #589 – I’m Done with This Thing appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
CNN+ is already dead, Cinehouse is a new streaming service, Sonos may have a low-cost soundbar, PlayStation Plus details emerge while VRR lands on PS5.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #588 – I Want It To Burn My Retina appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
CNN+ is already dead, Cinehouse is a new streaming service, Sonos may have a low-cost soundbar, PlayStation Plus details emerge while VRR lands on PS5.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #587 – The Plus Isn’t Enough appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Smartlabs' shutdown of Insteon left many customers in a lurch. But you can still use your Insteon devices. In this article, we go through the steps to bring new life to your Ceiling Fan Controller so you can control your fan and light from anywhere in your home.
The post Your Insteon Fan Controller Isn’t Dead Yet appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Netflix is considering ads, Tablo delays their ATSC 3.0 DVR, FIFA launches a streaming service, Amazon Music raises prices, and Sony and Xbox investigate ads in free-to-play games.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #586 – Branded DRM appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Seth Johnson is here to help make sense of some of the latest smart home news. While it’s a slow product season, two brands, iHome and Insteon, have gone dark with little to no notice! Meanwhile, IKEA’s new cellular shades have arrived in stores, and Seth and Richard try their hand at pronouncing those product names before talking about their latest respective smart home projects.
The post Home: On #148 – A Disgraceful Exit with Seth Johnson appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Sony’s answer to Xbox Game Pass is a 3-tiered version of PlayStation Plus. YouTube TV is getting 5.1 and PiP. Microsoft now sells refurbished Xbox Series X.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #585 – Plex’s Universal Watchlist appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
After a year’s hiatus, we are back to catch up on some of the recent news: A new smart switch from ORRO, more delays in the Matter standard, and a retail pioneer says goodbye. And Erik Glassen joins us to discuss what Kwikset’s been up to in the smart lock space, including a new biometric lock that lets you open your front door with your fingerprint.
The post Home: On #147 – Simpler Security with Erik Glassen from Kwikset appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Sony’s answer to Xbox Game Pass is a 3-tiered version of PlayStation Plus. YouTube TV is getting 5.1 and PiP. Microsoft now sells refurbished Xbox Series X.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #584 – PlayStation Plus appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Samsung announces a QD-OLED TV. YouTube is adding free TV shows. Roku is getting photo screensavers, and PlayStation 5 will get VRR soon.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #583 – You’re Almost Definitely Better appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
CNN+ gets a date and price. Disney+ is bringing ads. Polk has a new Dolby Atmos soundbar. Xbox gets Quick Resume enhancements, and Itch.io is giving you games to support Ukraine.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #582 – Just Take the Win appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex unifies live TV guides, Sony Bravia TVs get VRR, Sonos launches Roam SL, Steam Deck arrives, and Amazon Luna launches.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #581 – More VRR and Fewer Microphones appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
CNN’s streaming plans become clearer, Intel’s Project Endgame might offer game streaming, and Windows 11 is getting more Xbox gaming goodness.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #580 – As Vague as You Can Get appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
NVIDIA SHIELD TV gets patched, MoviePass aims to return, CBS rebrands, crazy battery life headphones, and a QD-OLED monitor gets a price.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #579 – Roll Your Eyes in Unison appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Spotify has lots of drama because of Joe Rogan, Sony bought Bungie, Netflix is making it easier to hide your mistakes, and more!
The post Entertainment 2.0 #578 – Spotify Drama appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Microsoft Buys Activision Blizzard. The NVIDIA SHIELD update broke some Plex servers. Google showed off Play Games on Windows.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #577 – Microsoft Buys Activision Blizzard appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Roku LIve TV Zone is combining live TV sources. YouTube TV will stream the Olympics in 4K. Google multiroom audio is getting complicated.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #576 – Give in to the Guide appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Eve MotionBlinds are wireless, rechargeable smart shades that work with HomeKit. And Thread on board ensures that they're ready for the future.
The post Eve Introduces MotionBlinds: The First Matter-Ready, Wireless Smart Shades appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Tablo's ATSC 3.0 Quad HDMI OTA DVR supports 4K HDR content over the air. There are some drawbacks to cutting-edge technology, though.
The post Tablo Launches 4K ATSC 3.0 OTA DVR appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
We recap all the news from CES 2022 including all the big TV announcements, PlayStation VR2, Tablo’s ATSC 3.0 DVR, and more.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #575 – CES 2022 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
As Ring adds a sonic glass break sensor to its DIY and Pro home alarm systems, we jump to the inevitable future, thinking "Send in the drones!"
The post Ring Announces Glass Break Sensor; We Ask “Where’s Our Drone?” appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Ubisoft+, the game subscription service from the publisher is coming to Xbox. Will it also come to Game Pass?
The post Ubisoft+ is Coming to Xbox appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Time to break down all the TV news from CES 2022. Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL all had new sets but was it a revolutionary or evolutionary year?
The post Wrapping Up the TV News from CES 2022 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
At CES 2022, Samsung announces the Home Connectivity Alliance—a new smart home industry group— as everyone scratches their collective heads.
The post Samsung Opens CES, Announces Another Smart Home Industry Group appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The Cloud Alpha Wireless headset from HyperX looks to retain the company's renowned sound quality and comfort but adds 300 hours of playback.
The post HyperX Announces Cloud Alpha Wireless Gaming Headset with 300-hour Battery appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Sony shared more details and the official name of the PlayStation VR2.
The post Sony Announces and Details PlayStation VR2 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Abode has announced new WiFi-based color smart bulbs, available today for under $30.
The post Abode Enters the Smart Bulb Market appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
LG had almost no TV news at CES so they spent their time announcing a gaming monitor, laptop, and soundbar under the UltraGear name.
The post LG Shifts Focus to Gaming at CES 2022 with New UltraGear Line appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Sony surprised us by being the first company to announce a QD-OLED TV at CES 2022.
The post Sony Announces QD-OLED TVs at CES 2022 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
At CES 2022, Moen has introduced a new smart faucet that adjusts temperature by gestures—and comes without a handle.
The post Moen Announces Handle-less Smart Faucet at CES 2022 appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
DirecTV Stream is raising prices, Polk Audio launches an Atmos soundbar, and Josh and Richard share their media favorites of 2021.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #574 – Our 2021 Media Favorites appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Our WiSA SoundSend review, Peacock gets Universal films, Roku and YouTube made up, Scuf made a PS5 controller, and Google is bringing Android games to PC.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #573 – SoundSend, Sonos, Scuf, and More! appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
WiSA’s SoundSend is supposed to make it easy and powerful to create a surround sound setup. We’ve reviewed to see if they were successful.
The post WiSA SoundSend Review appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
F1 TV comes to most streaming devices. Get notified when shows are available to watch “for free”. Spotify is getting into audiobooks. Xbox threw a birthday party.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #572 – Best Price Increase News Ever appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
F1 TV comes to most streaming devices. Get notified when shows are available to watch “for free”. Spotify is getting into audiobooks. Xbox threw a birthday party.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #571 – Watching “For Free” appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex revamps download feature, YouTube will disappear from Roku, GeForce Now goes 4k, Xbox helps nighttime gamers, and Netflix launches games.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #570 – Netflix Games: It’s a Stranger Thing appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
At its 2021 developer conference, Samsung unveils plans to integrate devices from the upcoming Matter smart home ecosystem with SmartThings.
The post Samsung Unveils SmartThings’ Matter Plans appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
MLB may have a local streaming option coming, Sling TV adds a mini-player to the guide, Apple has new AirPods, Switch Online gets a new tier, and Xbox adds more accessibility features.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #569 – I’ve Been Called Bridezilla appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Josh is joined by Jen Pollard to discuss her life with tech, but they also cover the latest news from Google TV, Microsoft Kinect, and Xbox.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #568 – Weeping in the Kitchen appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
A new Roku Streaming Stick 4k was announced, Sony debuted a lower-cost high-end soundbar, and Spotify is making your playlists better.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #567 – Opinion-Free and OTA appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
A new Roku Streaming Stick 4k was announced, Sony debuted a lower-cost high-end soundbar, and Spotify is making your playlists better.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #566 – Sonos with Shades appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
A new Roku Streaming Stick 4k was announced, Sony debuted a lower-cost high-end soundbar, and Spotify is making your playlists better.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #565 – It’s a Weird World Right Now, Richard appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Locast is officially dead. tvOS updates are inbound. Amazon announces the Fire TV Stick 4k Max. Sonos has a new version of the Beam soundbar.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #564 – Amazon Basics TV appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex released a Modern Layout. Sofabaton looks to replace Harmony remotes. Qualcomm brings lossless audio to Bluetooth, and Xbox Cloud Gaming is coming to consoles.
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Plex brings “sonic similarity” to your music library. TCL launches Google TV sets. Movie studios and theaters are making up.
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SmartThings Edge will allow any device and automation to run locally on their hubs. Big news for SmartThings users.
The post SmartThings Debuts SmartThings Edge appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex makes collections easier to manage and more powerful. Spotify trials cheaper plans while making it easier to find new songs. And you can now swap out the M.2 SSD in your PlayStation 5.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #561 – That’s Two Mochachino Somethings appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Valve announces the Steam Deck, a portable gaming PC, LG’s rollable OLED TV is available, CNN+ gets announced, and Android TV gets better.
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YouTube TV adds 4k. Peacock comes to Fire TV. Nintendo announced an OLED Switch, and Xbox Cloud Gaming is generally available.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #559 – Admit It: It’s Fun! appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Xbox had a good showing at E3 2021! NBC will offer the Olympics in 4k HDR with Dolby Atmos and IKEAs latest speaker is in fact a piece of wall art.
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Apple TV, HomePod, and AirPods news from WWDC 2021, Walmart is selling cheap Android TVs streamers while Stadia and Sling TV come to the OS.
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Warner Bros. and Discovery have merged, Amazon bought MGM, TiVo is exiting device production, Apple Music is kicking off a lossless audio wave.
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HDHomeRun Flex arrives, YouTube TV and Roku keep fighting, Wyze launches wireless earbuds, and Xbox is helping fans buy the Series X.
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Logitech gives up on Harmony. There's a new Apple TV 4k and Roku is updating their products. PlayStation 5 gets updated and xCloud comes to browsers.
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T-Mobile shuts down TVision, Sonos is partnering with Ikea again, Spotify has figured out music discovery, and E3 is returning virtually.
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RESET podcast’s Dave McCabe helps us reset our own show as we prepare for a new year of smart home products and services. We discuss new Ring and Philips Hue products plus a new feature from Ring and Amazon that may just freak you out a bit...but it’s pretty cool.
The post Home: On #146 – Let’s Reset with Dave McCabe appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Tablo has a new QUAD HDMI DVR. HBO Max to offer a free tier, Apple kills the HomePod, and Dolby Vision HDR is coming to Xbox gaming.
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Samsung MicroLED TVs are almost here. The Sonos Roam might be a great portable speaker. Microsoft releases updates across the Xbox platforms.
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SmartThings plans to retire the V1 and Link for NVIDIA SHIELD hubs in June 2021. But they are offering current users an upgrade discount.
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Spotify HIFI finally brings lossless audio. Apple TV+ comes to Chromecast. PlayStation VR 2 is coming. Xbox is delivering higher frame rates.
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PlayOn and Channels have partnered to make a great solution. Chromecast is adding kid’s profiles. Xbox announced an exciting new headset.
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Xbox celebrates Black History Month, Discovery Plus adds linear channels, Sling TV raises their rates, and Google Stadia stops making games.
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Netflix starts shuffling, Channels gets PiP, DC Universe is refocusing, Xbox almost made a terrible mistake, and Plex Arcade starts streaming classic games.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #547 – Infinitely Less Video appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The SoundSend makes wireless surround sound an easy solution for almost any television in any home theater.
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Cleer is set to release the gorgeous Crescent speaker, ANC headphones with 60 hours of playtime, and two sets of truly wireless headphones.
The post Cleer Launches Gorgeous Crescent Speaker and Truly Wireless Headphones appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
It's CES 2021! We’re discussing the latest TVs, wireless surround sound getting easier, NVIDIA's new GPU, and so much more!
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Otterbox announced a new line of mobile gaming accessories at CES 2021. They have a gaming clip, carrying case, and more to show.
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Discovery+ is here and we’ve got all the details. Roku may buy Quibi’s library. ESPN+ sees a price increase while fuboTV is experimenting with pricing.
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It’s time for the Technology.FM year-end fireside chat, featuring HomeTech hosts Seth Johnson and Jason Griffing plus Richard's Smart Home Show co-host Adam Justice.
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There’s still time left to get a smart gift for the favorite geek in your life. Of course, nowadays smart home products are showing up everywhere—in bedrooms, family rooms, and kitchens—and becoming a part of more people’s daily lives. Author and blogger Marlon Buchanan joins us to share some recommendations for the best smart home gifts to give this season.
The post Home: On #144 – Smart Gifting with Marlon Buchanan appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Vudu and Peacock get integrated into TiVo. Disney+ gets a price increase. Google Home Max gets axed, and iOS gets Xbox cloud streaming.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #544 – What If Timmy Knows That Kid’s a Jerk? appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
The HDHomeRun Prime 6 is gone. HBO Max is getting more new movies, discovery+ is coming soon, and Apple's new headphones disappoint.
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It's been almost impossible to get a CableCARD tuner for your home theater PC for years but surprisingly SiliconDust has the HDHomeRun Prime back in stock!
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After waiting almost three years for the device, the HDHomeRun Prime 6 has been canceled.
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Netflix leaves Google TV, HBO Max goes 4k, Amazon Music gets videos, The GeForce RTX 3060 Ti has arrived, and Xbox will become a smart TV app.
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Wyze introduces even more new products at record low prices, Cree returns to the smart bulb market, and Amazon is ready to leave packages inside your garage. We discuss all this and more, plus we dive into some innovative Z-Wave products with Inovelli’s Nathan Harte.
The post Home: On #143 – The Red Switch with Nathan Harte from Inovelli appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Comcast is capping data, Blacktag is supporting black creators, NVIDIA and Stadia are streaming games on iOS, and Wonder Woman 1984 is coming to your house.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #541 – Gonna Get Your Fortnite Back appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
HBO Max comes to Amazon Fire TV, AirPlay is on Roku, Sonos hopes you’ll pay for high-quality radio, and we get a sneak peek at xCloud on PC.
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Apple’s Adaptive Lighting is finally starting to come to products in the U.S, Wyze’s new $20 camera works indoors and out, and Moen’s Mason Hall provides some context around how the U by Moen faucet fits into Moen's broader smart water strategy.
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The Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 launched. Tablo reveals a new DVR. Sling gets picture-in-picture while saying goodbye to an old product.
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T-Mobile announces TVision. Quibi is shutting down. Apple TV is probably coming to Xbox and definitely coming to PlayStation 5.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #538 – The Trifecta of “I Don’t Care” appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Google discontinues Nest Secure while introducing new Nest products that feel a whole lot more Google than Nest. Plus product announcements from Feit, Yale, GE Lighting, and more...all with insights and perspective from The Verge’s Dan Seifert.
The post Home: On #141 – Thread’s Back! with Dan Seifert from The Verge appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Apple has revealed the HomePod Mini, Regal is closing all their theaters, EA Play is coming to Xbox Game Pass, and so much more on this episode!
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Consumer Reports’ Dan Wroclawski joins us to run through the latest new products from Amazon, Ring, Wyze, and more! And if you’re interested in CR’s smart home product picks, Dan has you covered. Find out what they think are some of the best security cameras, doorbells, smart speakers, and more...even irrigation systems.
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There are new streaming boxes from Roku, Amazon, and Google to breakdown and Amazon launched Luna, a game streaming service.
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Sony unveils PS5 pricing, Xbox buys Bethesda, HDHomeRun lands on Apple TV, and Plex figures out commercial skipping.
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SiliconDust has made an early release of its HDHomeRun app available on Apple TV. It doesn’t look or work like any other Apple TV app, but it does give you access to Live TV via your HDHomeRun tuner(s).
The post SiliconDust Introduces HDHomeRun App for Apple TV appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Plex DVR has come a long way and now it can skip commercials in a way that ensures you won't miss anything important in your favorite show!
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Insteon's new mobile app is available! What does it support and what doesn't it support? We summarize it all here with some thoughts on what you need to watch out for.
The post What Will and Won’t Work with the New Insteon App appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Microsoft announces Xbox Series X pricing, Apple One is a bundle of their best services at a great price, Spotify makes it easy to find virtual concerts, and Xbox Cloud Gaming officially launches.
The post Entertainment 2.0 #534 – We Need a Show Like That Now appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Level one-ups Kevo, Signify announces another expensive Philips Hue entertainment product, and Wink lets customers down...again. But the real news is IFTTT’s new Pro offering, and Linden Tibbets is here to tell us all about that and to advise Richard on how to properly pronounce IFTTT after all these years.
The post Home: On #139 – Going Pro with Linden Tibbets of IFTTT appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Microsoft finally reveals the Xbox Series S! CableCARD is on its deathbed. TiVo gets smarter about updates and adds an important new service.
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NVIDIA’s RTX 3090 is bringing lifelike visuals to games, Amazon makes it easy to find live music on Twitch, and Disney+ could be getting group watch capabilities.
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ConnectSense CEO Adam Justice joins us to run through some recent industry news stories, and Adam and Richard both have some updates on what’s been happening in their respective smart homes—even since just discussing their own projects in-depth on The Smart Home Show.
The post Home: On #138 – The Latest Projects with Adam Justice appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Crunchyroll offers new perks, Audible brings a cheaper plan, Channels launches new features, and there's a great new cord-cutting bundle.
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New WiFi bulbs join the SYLVANIA SMART+ family. They're a bargain if you're looking for lighting that works with Alexa and Google Home.
The post SYLVANIA WiFi Bulbs Quietly Appear on Amazon appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
TCL 6-Series TVs look idea for gamers. Disney may cease production of catalog 4k Blu-ray, and Xbox Series X loses its biggest launch title.
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Are you a SmartThings user? Time's up! Samsung SmartThings is officially sunsetting the classic app in October.
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Mulan is coming to Disney+. Android TV simplifies service subscription. Movies Anywhere does watch-together right. Sony clarifies PlayStation 5 controller support.
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Chris Young, a.k.a. Homekitgeek, joins me to catch up on some smart home news from the past few weeks. We ponder the rash of products and services going away and Wink’s now-started subscription service, among other things. But the real meat of the conversation focuses around Apple’s and Google’s latest smart home announcements at their respective...and very different…virtual events.
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Microsoft gave the first big glimpse of their first-party games for the Xbox Series X in the Xbox Games Showcase and Plex has a new free live TV service.
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Microsoft continues to pull out all the stops in their attempt to win the next generation of console gaming. Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, wrote a long article this week detailing all the reasons gamers should be excited about the forthcoming launch of the Xbox Series X and a few other exciting things the Xbox team has been working on. Project xCloud is coming out of beta soon and we know how much it’s going to cost.
About a year ago, Microsoft launched the beta of Project xCloud. It’s a game streaming service similar to Google Stadia and NVIDIA GeForce Now. If neither of those services sound familiar, it’s easiest to think of Project xCloud as Netflix for gaming. It’s a service that allows you to connect to an Xbox in the cloud from your phone or tablet and play actual Xbox games on the go. The service has been completely free during the beta period and they’ve increased the size of the game library to over 50 games.
What is Project xCloud? While Google and NVIDIA have had their struggles with similar services, Microsoft has been uniquely positioned for success in this space. Unlike Google, Microsoft has been at the core of the video game space for almost two decades. And unlike NVIDIA, Microsoft has one of the best cloud computing infrastructures available. Microsoft Azure is perhaps only second to Amazon in the space.
We never doubted that Project xCloud would be successful. The cost of Project xCloud was always our primary question. We also wondered how they would help customers understand the difference between it and their two other gaming subscription services (Xbox Live Gold and Xbox Game Pass.) Competing services have cost as much as $20/month.
In Spencer’s post, he announced that Project xCloud will be renamed and made publically available this September. He also said that it will not be offered as yet another stand-alone subscription service. Instead, it will be bundled with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate at no additional charge.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate makes perfect sense as the new home for Project xCloud. The name Ultimate helps customers know that it is the way to get everything that Xbox has to offer. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes Xbox Live Gold (a service that allows users to play games online and includes up to four free games every month) and Xbox Game Pass (a service that gives gamers access to download and play over 100 games on Xbox ONe.) Game Pass Ultimate also includes the ability to play games on Windows 10 PCs. It is available for $14.99/month.
The Future Vision Currently, Project xCloud is limited to a library of games selected for the service. It’s also limited to Android and iOS. The plan is to scale back both of those limitations. Microsoft envisions a future where a gamer can use xCloud to start playing a game immediately while they wait for it to download on their Xbox or Windows 10 PC. They see it as a way to quickly try out new games without needing to download tens of gigabytes of data. Microsoft also plans to expand the devices you can use with Project xCloud. It seems pretty likely that they’ll bring it to Xbox consoles and Windows 10 PCs.
The future looks very good for Xbox gamers. While subscription fatigue is a very real problem, Xbox Game Pass has been one of the best values in gaming, and with the addition of Project xCloud, it’s only getting better.
The post Project xCloud is Coming Out of Beta appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Peacock, the new streaming service from NBCUniversal is launching this week and they are bringing Premier League matches with them. CBS All Access is also getting in on the soccer/football action by offering UEFA Champions League to their service. Tablo is offering reasonable storage in their latest DVRs and Spotify is making podcast discovery a lot easier.
You’ll have to hang around until the end to hear what might be a rather surprising musing from Josh.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #527.
https://thedmz.podbean.com/mf/play/0mmb4e/ent20-episode527.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
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Show Links
- Peacock will stream over 175 Premier League matches next season
- UEFA Champions League soccer moves to CBS All Access next month
- Tablo’s Dual 128GB and Quad 1TB DVRs have plenty of storage built-in
- Spotify debuts podcast charts to let you know what’s popular
- Spotify’s latest playlist tool creates a mix to match your workout
Send us your feedback by email
Follow us on Twitter: Josh Pollard and Richard Gunther
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
[asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B08C1385CQ[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B075SLGR9Z[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07YD5ZBTW[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07V2BBMK4[/asa] The post Entertainment 2.0 #527 – Peacock, Soccer, and Spotify appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
There is a new video code, H.266, which promises to cut data use of 4k video in half! This has huge implications for the future of streaming video. Amazon Prime Video has finally released a feature their competitors have had for years. Next-gen video games may cost $10 more than this generation’s games. If the Xbox One controller is too big to use with your phone there is a new alternative from the biggest name in Bluetooth controllers.
You’ll have to hang around until the end to hear what might be a rather surprising musing from Josh.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #526.
https://thedmz.podbean.com/mf/play/pv9nhs/ent20-episode526.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
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Show Links
- New H.266 codec uses half the data to stream 4K video
- Amazon Prime Video finally offers user profiles worldwide
- Sling TV promises not to raise prices on customers like everyone else is doing
- Here’s the first sign that next-gen games might get a price hike
- Xbox Series X First-Party Games Showcase Coming on July 23
- Summer Game Fest Demo Event Coming July 21 to an Xbox One Near You
- This tiny Xbox controller is designed for Microsoft’s xCloud service
Send us your feedback by email
Follow us on Twitter: Josh Pollard and Richard Gunther
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
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Unfortunately, this week’s episode has a lot of bad news. It gets started on a positive note as we look at Vizio’s newest 4k TVs, but then Google had to go and increase the cost of YouTube TV by 30%! ESPN+ also increased their price while AT&T is terminating one of their better live TV services. Fortunately, most of the rest of the news is pretty good!
You’ll have to hang around until the end to hear what might be a rather surprising musing from Josh.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #525.
https://thedmz.podbean.com/mf/play/vgg9t1/ent20-episode525.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
- Subscribe via RSS
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Show Links
- Vizio’s latest 4K HDR TVs now shipping, with OLED model due in the fall
- Google raises YouTube TV subscription to $64.99 per month for all members
- ESPN Plus increases to $5.99 in August, making it the same price as Hulu
- AT&T is killing its cheap TV bundle for cord cutters
- Amazon will let you co-watch Prime videos with friends in the US
- Amazon Brings a Prime Video App to the Microsoft Store
- TiVo Stream 4K Android TV dongle extends its $50 price through the end of July
- Microsoft is permanently closing its retail stores
Send us your feedback by email
Follow us on Twitter: Josh Pollard and Richard Gunther
Like us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/theDMZ
The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
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It’s no secret that SmartThings has been in a state of transition for several years now. At the Samsung Developer Conference (SDC) in 2017(!), Samsung announced it would combine all of its IoT platforms under the SmartThings Cloud. In the 2.5 years since, Samsung has been overhauling the whole SmartThings ecosystem from the ground up. Most long-time SmartThings customers have seen the effect of this in the move to the new mobile app. But over the years, SmartThings has also been creating new developer tools.
SDC 2018 and 2019 both featured many new tools from SmartThings for developers to integrate devices and create automations. Meanwhile, the legacy platform and mobile apps that have been around from before Samsung’s acquisition of SmartThings have been running alongside the new platform. That is, until later this year and into 2021. SmartThings announced last week they are ready to finally start turning off parts of the legacy mobile app and developer portals.
SmartThings has announced this upcoming change through several sources. There is a post in the community forum about it, an article on Business Insider (yes, strange), and Stacey on IoT has an article and podcast about it. None are particularly heavy on details at this point, but we commend SmartThings for giving plenty of notice to its community and developers that this is incoming (ahem, Wink). We recommend listening to Stacey Higginbotham’s podcast if you want to hear more details and an interview with SmartThings’ head of engineering, Mark Benson. We’re going to summarize the changes here, and then discuss what we’ll be looking at to determine if this migration is successful or not.
The new SmartThings developer portal Changes Coming to the SmartThings Platform Change: Samsung’s overarching theme is to make SmartThings easier to use for the mass-market consumer. They want to offer out-of-the-box solutions that help consumers find value in using SmartThings (and therefore buy Samsung TVs, appliances, etc).
Success Criteria: The new SmartThings app is already a good step in the ease-of-use direction. It is generally easier to find things and has an easy to use “if/then” style automation creator. SmartThings has 62 million users now, and the traditional hub user is probably the minority compared to TV and appliance owners that would use SmartThings to set up their new Samsung gadget. SmartThings will need to balance ease of use while not abandoning its hub users who tend to be more technical. We would also like to see more in-house SmartApps like SmartThings Home Monitor and Smart Lock Guest Access.
Change: Samsung wants SmartThings to integrate with everyone. Related to the item above, this makes it easy for users and removes compatibility anxiety.
*Success Criteria:* New developer tools, like SmartThings Schema, have been successful with companies like TP-Link Kasa, August, and Globe. They use them to integrate their products with SmartThings. But there are still some big names left running legacy Groovy integrations. SmartThings needs to convince (or help) companies like Ring, Ecobee, and Lutron to rewrite their integrations using the new tools so they still work after the migration. They also still need to integrate with some big names like Nest and Wyze if they truly want to work with everyone.
Change:The SmartThings Classic app will be retired by the end of Q3/beginning of Q4 2020.
*Success Criteria:* This is probably the source of the most heartburn for current SmartThings users, and it will be one of the first legacy items to go. Until recently, SmartThings Classic was the only way to see custom capabilities for community-created devices. Samsung has recently added support to build custom capabilities in the new app. In order to retire Classic, SmartThings needs to encourage and help device handler creators adapt their code to work in the new app. This could be harder than it seems. Some developers may not use SmartThings anymore, and some users may not realize that code needs to be updated.
Change: Older SmartThings hubs will no longer be supported.
*Success Criteria:* First, we need to know which models. The v1 hub is likely to get dropped, but the Nvidia Shield Link and ADT Hub are now 10+ firmware versions behind, so they might also be at risk (more on this below). To make matters worse, SmartThings infamously offers no hub backup or migration utilities. To avoid angering their oldest and most loyal customers, SmartThings needs to release a migration utility to upgrade hubs. But we have a sneaking suspicion this may not be technically feasible with the large gap in firmware revisions. If that’s the case, then at a minimum Samsung needs to offer those users a hefty discount on a new hub.
Change SmartThings-branded hardware will cease to exist. Instead, SmartThings will be partnering with manufacturers to make compatible devices and embed SmartThings hub functionality in their devices.
*Success Criteria:* This one is hard to get a read on. The Business Insider article makes it seem like SmartThings-branded hardware will cease to exist altogether. Stacey’s article says that SmartThings will continue to offer the hub and maybe some other products as well. We’re inclined to believe it’s the latter. Either way, SmartThings is definitely looking to expand its platform and act more as a service provider. We saw this push when we covered SDC 2019.
SmartThings not offering self-branded sensors may not be a big deal since they don’t manufacture them anyway. What concerns us is embedding the hub in other companies’ hardware. The two current examples of this, the Nvidia Shield Link and ADT/SmartThings Security Hub, are currently over 10 firmware revisions behind the in-house v2 and v3 hub. SmartThings needs to be able to update hub firmware independently of the third party hardware it’s running on. This will be critical to avoiding fragmentation and rolling new features out to all users.
Change: The Groovy IDE will be retired in 2021.
*Success Criteria:* The Groovy integrated development environment (IDE) is the legacy development platform that experienced SmartThings users have come to love. Now that the new platform is nearing completion, Groovy will be retired. Groovy IDE serves several important functions that the new platform will need to handle:
1) Viewing hub and device logs
2) Accessing hub utilities (reboot, disable, and enable radios, etc.)
3) Viewing Zigbee and Z-Wave mesh routing information
4) Easily creating new device handlers and SmartApps
That last item will be the biggest hurdle. The Groovy IDE provides an easy way for power users to copy and paste code provided by community developers. It also hosts the custom SmartApp code, which has to be costing Samsung some hefty AWS bills to run. SmartThings needs to offer some tools and guidance on how developers can easily distribute their code in the future. Asking power users to start setting up their own servers to host custom automations and SmartApps is a big leap. It may also discourage smaller developers that don’t want (or know how) to host and distribute their own SmartApps and code.
Migrating the bigger community SmartApps, like WebCoRE and Echo Speaks, could also be a challenge. Those SmartApps have years’ worth of work put into them, a lot of users, and seemingly no effort put into the new platform. If developers can’t convert them to the new platform in time, SmartThings should whitelist these to keep the user base happy and allow the unpaid developers time to convert them over.
Stay Tuned SmartThings does stress that they remain committed to their active community and developers. They say this is the first step in an ongoing series of communications as the platform transitions. We remain optimistic about the future of SmartThings. The new platform promises many benefits like reduced latency, local processing, and improved reliability. If they can pull off the transition successfully, SmartThings will cement itself as a leader in DIY home automation. Stay tuned to the DMZ and SmartThingsBeat Twitter accounts as we track more details about these changes as they are revealed.
The post SmartThings to Retire Legacy Platforms appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
This week Apple held WWDC, their developer conference, and they announced a lot of improvements coming to Apple TV devices and iPods that we’re excited about. FuboTV added the last major block of channels they really needed to be the king of sports streaming. Spotify has two cool new playlists and Microsoft is shutting down Mixer after pouring millions of dollars into it.
You’ll have to hang around until the end to hear what might be a rather surprising musing from Josh.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #524.
https://thedmz.podbean.com/mf/play/0z0i6v/ent20-episode524.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
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Show Links
- Apple brings picture-in-picture and gaming updates to Apple TV
- Apple TV will finally stream YouTube in 4K
- Peacock streaming service is coming to Android TV and Chromecast
- FuboTV will get ESPN and other Disney channels starting this summer
- Spotify is bringing back the Summer Rewind playlist
- Microsoft will shut down Mixer on July 22, transition users to Facebook Gaming
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
[asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07YP94PBJ[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B075SLGR9Z[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07YD5ZBTW[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07V2BBMK4[/asa] The post Entertainment 2.0 #524 – You Can’t Have Too Many Sports Channels appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
Sonos and Lutron deliver new hardware, Ecobee forces customers to enable its new Eco+ feature, and lots of companies deliver the products they showed at CES. Plus we talk with ConnectedYard founder Justin Miller about pHin, a connected pool monitoring system.
Listen to the episode here or download it.
http://traffic.libsyn.com/thedigitalmediazone/homeon-ep136.mp3 You’ll also find the show in these places:
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Show Links * Wink Plays Extortion Chicken with Its Customers * New Sonos “S2” app is now available * Lutron sneaks and finally announces new wood blinds products * Ecobee adds eco+ energy savings, forces customers to enable it * Ring’s new smart lighting products now available * U by Moen smart faucets now available * Learn more about pHin * Follow pHin on Twitter and Instagram
Home: On is listed at Technology.FM, a curated collection of technology podcasts, including great shows like The HomeTech Podcast, The Food Tech Show, and The Smart Home Show, now co-hosted by Richard with Adam Justice.
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
[asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B087CD7H2G[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B00XPW67ZM[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B082JSV89Z[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B083XDLZSW[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07S5Y9BPD[/asa] Inquire about sponsorship opportunities at info@thedigitalmediazone.com
The post Home: On #136 – A Smarter Pool with Justin Miller from ConnectedYard appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
This week Sony took the wraps off of the long-anticipated PlayStation 5. We spend some time talking about how it looks, the impact of offering two models, and just a tiny bit of time on the games that were showcased. Reelgood, an app that aims to make it easier to find what you’re looking for, is now available on Android TV. You can now watch Quibi on your TV. Lastly, Xbox has released another minor system update.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #523.
https://thedmz.podbean.com/mf/play/ugfip1/ent20-episode523.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
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Show Links
- PS5 Reveal Event: Everything Announced at the Show
- ‘Reelgood’ app pulls all your streaming services together, now on Android TV
- Quibi adds Chromecast support for watching shows on a big screen
- Xbox June 2020 Update Delivers Simplified Digital Library Management and More
- Xbox Games with Gold
- Free PS Plus Games
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Follow us on Twitter: Josh Pollard and Richard Gunther
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
[asa]B07YP94PBJ[/asa][asa]B075SLGR9Z[/asa][asa]B07YD5ZBTW[/asa][asa]B07V2BBMK4[/asa]test$ The post Entertainment 2.0 #523 – Sony Being Sony appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
TiVo has addressed two of the biggest issues with the TiVo Stream 4k. TCL dips their toes in the Android TV waters. FuboTV comes to Xbox One while a small system update is released, and Sony has set a date for the PlayStation 5 reveal event.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #522.
https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/2iim96/ent20-episode522.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
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Show Links
- TiVo Stream 4K Receives Quick Fixes
- TiVo Mini Vanishes From Site After Corporate Merger
- Pluto TV now on TiVo
- TCL starts selling Android-powered TVs in the US
- FuboTV’s sports-centric app comes to the Xbox One
- Hulu will cut off older Roku players after June 24th
- May 2020 Xbox One Update Introduces Simpler Guide & More
- Sony Will Now Reveal The PlayStation 5 On June 11
- Xbox Games with Gold
- Free PS Plus Games
- Techish
Send us your feedback by email
Follow us on Twitter: Josh Pollard and Richard Gunther
Like us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/theDMZ
The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
[asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07YP94PBJ[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B075SLGR9Z[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07YD5ZBTW[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07V2BBMK4[/asa] The post Entertainment 2.0 #522 – Playing Chicken with Sony appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
For months, we’ve been hearing about Ecobee’s new Eco+ (stylized as eco+) features to save energy and money with your Ecobee thermostat. Eco+ bundles some existing thermostat settings with new features that are designed to optimize your energy consumption.
The folks at Ecobee want you to use Eco+. They really want you to use it. They want you to use it so much that when you open your Ecobee app, they’ll force you to enable it. An Eco+ onboarding workflow steps you through multiple information panels and a “savings preference” panel. You cannot skip, close, or defer this process. You must enable Eco+, whether you want to or not. Whether this is a good time for you to learn and think about it or not (1:47 a.m. for me was not). There’s no way to get around it.
This is irresponsible product experience design.
Eco+ changes how your thermostat works to help you save money and energy. Arguably, this is a good thing. Many customers may want this. Some may not. If you don’t want to use Ecobee’s new Eco+ features, even though you were required to enable them, you can go into your thermostat’s settings to disable them.
How To Disable Eco+ The Eco+ settings are pretty easy to find in the app because they’re at the top of the thermostat menu. We mentioned that Ecobee really wants you to use Eco+, right? The Eco+ settings are above the settings to change your HVAC mode or turn on your fan. They’re above your sensor settings. They’re above schedules, comfort settings, and everything else. Ecobee really wants you to use Eco+.
To disable Eco+ settings, select Eco+, then select each of the four options you want to disable. Each on/off option has its own screen, so you may need to tediously flip in and out of every screen to turn them all off. Note that Smart Home & Away, the legacy feature that adjusts your thermostat based on occupancy, is now part of Eco+. If you were using that before, you can keep that enabled.
If you don’t want to use any of these features, including Smart Home & Away, you can disable Eco+ entirely by tapping the current setting (in green) at the top of the Eco+ screen and changing it to Disable indefinitely. The implied guilt is likely intentional. Ecobee really wants you to use Eco+.
When asked on Twitter about the mandatory settings, an Ecobee representative noted that customers can disable them:
Hi Richard, if you do not wish to have eco+ you can disable it by disabling each of its 5 features. To find out more, check this link: https://t.co/XoQ4ipVR1J
If you need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. Always happy to help!— ecobee (@ecobee) June 9, 2020
When further pressed about whether it was Ecobee’s intent to force customers to enable this, Ecobee provided this carefully worded response:
eco+ was developed to deliver personalized energy recommendations by looking at things like local weather, home occupancy, and variable electricity rates to shift your home's energy usage accordingly! If a user does not wish to use the function they're able to disable it.
— ecobee (@ecobee) June 9, 2020
Ecobee really wants you to use Eco+. But you can decide for yourself. You can disable it.
The post Ecobee Forces Customers To Enable New Eco+ Features appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
This is not a week for business as usual. So this isn’t our typical episode about your favorite movies, music, shows, and games. Instead, it’s our attempt to amplify the voices of others who should be heard. We’re two white guys who may not be well qualified to discuss this, but we feel like we should. Are you listening to any podcasters of color? We weren’t. Why not? That’s a problem. We want—we hope—to change that with some listening recommendations of podcasts and presentations by people of color.
Don’t worry—this doesn’t get political. Just listen. And then give these other podcasters and presenters a listen. We think you’ll be glad you did.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #521.
https://thedmz.podbean.com/mf/play/014ltl/ent20-episode521.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
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Show Links
- Black Tech Unplugged
- 3BlackGeeks
- Black Girl Nerds
- SMRPodcast
- Throwdown
- 3 Questions to Ask Yourself About Everything You Do
- Podcasts in Color
Send us your feedback by email
Follow us on Twitter: Josh Pollard and Richard Gunther
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The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
The post Entertainment 2.0 #521 – Pass the Mic appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
HBO Max is now available, but it’s launching with a lot of confusion. We’re hear to clear it up for you! We also take our first look at the TiVo Stream 4k. HDHomeRun’s ATSC 3.0 tuner Kickstarterer has ended. Plex has added a skip intro feature, and so much more.
Join us most weeks for the live recording of Entertainment 2.0 on Tuesday evenings at 8:30 pm ET!
Click here to download episode #520.
https://thedmz.podbean.com/mf/play/fzjedm/ent20-episode520.mp3 Subscribe to the Show
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Show Links
- HBO Max is live: Here’s everything to know
- TiVo Stream 4k Setup and Initial Impressions
- ScreenHits TV to Launch Streaming Aggregator to Combat “Subscription Fatigue”
- HDHomeRun Quatro 4K Kickstarter Ends
- Go ahead and Skip that Intro
- Get a Monthly Streaming Credit from AmEx Platinum
- Hulu is rolling out a new home screen to Apple TV and Roku users
- Google Podcasts 2.0 Adds CarPlay Support to iOS App
- Xbox Games with Gold
- Free PS Plus Games
Send us your feedback by email
Follow us on Twitter: Josh Pollard and Richard Gunther
Like us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/theDMZ
The intro music is a song called Rogue by Raw Stiles
Featured Products If you’re interested in any of the products mentioned in this show, consider using our affiliate links, below, to view or purchase them on Amazon.com. Don’t worry…nobody’s getting rich off of this; but it does help us keep the lights on (so to speak) at The DMZ.
[asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07YP94PBJ[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B078LH47CD[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07YD5ZBTW[/asa][asa tpl=dmz_box_vertical]B07V2BBMK4[/asa] The post Entertainment 2.0 #520 – TiVo’s Secret Sauce appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.
We’ve got the brand new TiVo Stream 4k and we wanted to share our initial impressions with you all. In this video we’re going to hook up the device for the first time and see what the setup experience is like. Along the way we’ll compare it to the NVIDIA SHIELD TV since they are both based on Android TV. We’ll also briefly discuss the all-important remote control. And last, but not least, we’ll look at the secret sauce of this new streamer: the TiVo Stream app.
The TiVo Stream app is designed to bring all of your favorite services together in one app. It doesn’t support every streaming service out there, but it does have most of the big ones. Take a look at the video below and let us know if you think it meets the requirements for your house. It’s still available for $49.99 which is $20 off the full price.
We’ve now shared our initial impressions of the TiVo Stream 4k but we want to hear from you. What do you think of what you’ve seen? Are there more questions we can answer for you? Sound off in the comment section below.
The post TiVo Stream 4k Setup and Initial Impressions appeared first on The Digital Media Zone.