iPPea TV Adds Android 4.0 to Any Big Screen TV (video)
Back in May we told you about Pocket TV. It effectively adds Google TV to any HDMI enabled set and includes built-in WiFi as well as a USB port for adding a hard drive or storage array of your choosing. The only downside to the device? The price tag of $99, which is on par with the cost of the Revue box by Logitech. However, that box takes up space, space that many people may not have, especially if they mounted their big screen to the wall. The alternative? iPPea TV Dongle.
Unlike Pocket TV, the iPPea TV Dongle costs just $50, but with that discount in price comes a small sacrifice. Instead of a full blown Google TV experience, you’ll be relegated to an experience more analogous to that of a smartphone. That said, it will ship with Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich, so you’ll be able to enjoy the newest features from Google, but expect the usability to be less HTPC friendly.
In terms of specs, the iPPea TV dongle will include built-in WiFi N, MIPS-Based XBurst™ CPU running at 1.2 GHz, USB 2.0 connectivity (not clear if you can add a storage array), a microSD card slot, and support for full HD video in most formats. Optional accessories include a 3D + gyro wireless key mouse, USB RJ45 LAN adaptor, HDMI extension cable and 360 degree HDMI connector.
The iPPea TV can be preordered now with shipping expected to commence in late July.
Christen Costa
