Pogoplug updated the second iteration of their hardware today with a software upgrade.  So what’s new?  Now Xbox 360 and PS3 gamers can stream content stored on their Pogoplug to their console, presumably letting them watch movie, view photos and listen to music any where their device has an Internet connection.

Also new is a feature called Active Copy.  In a nut shell it automatically copies files from a selected hard drive (on your computer) and copies them to the Pogoplug’s remotely connected storage device.  Something I’d equate to a poor man’s RAID system, but there’s really nothing poor about it.

Both of the above features are available today.  You just need to download the update.

Pogoplug™ Launches Media Streaming and Offsite Backup

San Francisco, Calif. – March 16th, 2010 – Pogoplug, the multimedia sharing device that allows users to access their media anywhere on the web, today adds two new features to the award-winning device. Starting today, Pogoplug users can stream content to Xbox 360 and PS3 game consoles. The enhanced Active Copy feature now automatically copies files to a Pogoplug in another location.

With game console support, Pogoplug owners can now easily access, share, and stream their media directly to their Xbox 360 or PS3 from any local or remotely located Pogoplug. Gamers can watch home movies from their Pogoplug connected external hard drive on their Xbox 360 or PS3, share slideshows or listen to their entire music library without ever putting down their game controller. The Xbox 360 or PS3 automatically sees the drives connected to the Pogoplug and the contents of other shared Pogoplugs.

“By adding media streaming capabilities to the Xbox 360 and PS3 through your Pogoplug, we are making it easier than ever to access your media on your television,” said Daniel Putterman, Cloud Engines CEO. “The new version of Active Copy is revolutionary. Now anyone can easily keep a safe copy of their files in another location.”

Active Copy enables users to backup folders on their computer to a Pogoplug connected drive. Whenever new files are added, or changes are made to an existing file within the Active Copy enabled folder, these files are automatically copied to a chosen destination folder. Now users can also use Active Copy to automatically backup key files from one Pogoplug to another off-site Pogoplug, for additional safety and redundancy.

Both features came from user requests and both update to all Pogoplugs worldwide via an automatic firmware upgrade today. For support or other questions, please visit the support page at www.Pogoplug.com/support and the community website, www.pogoplugged.com.

USEFUL LINKS

· Pogoplug web site: www.pogoplug.com

· Product photos: www.flickr.com/photos/pogoplug

· Twitter feed: www.twitter.com/pogoplug

· Pogoplug online community: www.pogoplugged.com

ABOUT THE POGOPLUG

The Pogoplug is a device that connects up to 4 external hard drives to the Internet. It is designed for consumers who have an external hard drive and have high speed Internet. Consumers can securely access and share all of their content (files, photos, and video) from any web browser or enabled mobile device with no additional monthly fees.

ABOUT CLOUD ENGINES, INC.

Founded in 2007 by experienced entrepreneurs from the digital media and security industries, Cloud Engines is located in San Francisco, California. The company was formed with a mission to change the way personal content is stored and distributed over the Internet. The Cloud Engines philosophy is that by making a product simple, open and affordable, the community will participate in making it better. For more information, please visit our Web site, www.cloudengines.com.

That’s it, I’m getting a Windows phone.  Okay, I’m kidding, but after seeing Netflix streaming on a Windows 7 Mobile handset I’m thoroughly impressed.  Who knows if carriers will let this kind of streaming occur over 3G, but one can only hope.

Does this mean that Netflix streaming will be available on Zune devices as well?  When will this app be available?

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Tell me something is infinite and I’ll laugh in your face.  Looks like I won’t be having the last laugh, Infinitec will. They’re set to release something called the Infinite USB Memory Device (IUM).  Sounds impossible I know, but read on and you’ll get it.

In short order it’s a USB dongle that wirelessly connects to the laptop of your choosing over WiFi.  Plug the IUM into your Xbox 360, another computer or almost any USB enabled device and you’ll be able to stream your computer’s hard drive contents to that machine…and hence why it’s like an unlimited USB flash drive.  It includes its very own software which allows you to customize what content you’d like to share – you don’t want the porn showing up on the family big screen – and it supports full HD.  The use cases are almost endless, but a few cited in their PR is a digital photo frame for pictures and movies, printers for wireless printing, video game consoles and more.

It’s still not clear how the compability will play out, but presumably it will act as a standard USB thumb drive only the content will be streamed over 802.11n.

Features:

The Next Generation Flash Drive is Finally Here

Simply put, the IUM is the next generation of USB flash drives. Why? Because it provides you with a more efficient, practical and comprehensive solution for transferring your files than traditional USB flash drives. You no longer need to run back and forth between laptops to share files, you don’t need to worry about what previous content may still be on your flash drive before you give it to a friend or colleague, and you don’t need to try to figure out if you have enough capacity available to share all you content. Oh, and by the way, have we told you about its media streaming capabilities? Here are some of the things it can do.

Unlimited File Sharing

Because the IUM allows you to share your entire hard drive as well as any servers, external hard drives or other storage space that your laptop has access to, you can never run out of storage space.

Complete Freedom

The IUM gives you the complete freedom of choosing whether to share one single file or your entire hard drive. You are in control. You decide what to share, when and with whom.

Completely Secure

Because the IUM uses your laptop’s hard drive for storage, if your IUM is lost or stolen, none of your files will be gone with it. Unlike in traditional flash drives, the IUM doesn’t store any content in it and therefore your data is always protected because it never leaves your laptop.

Compatible with all File Formats

The IUM supports all types of files and folders regardless of the functionality or the extension of the file. All you have to do is mark the file for sharing using the IUM software and your files will immediately appear on the IUM.

Stream Your Media

Because files never leave your laptop, you can stream all your movies, music and pictures directly to your TV, DVD player, Blu-ray player, HiFi system, etc. All you need is a USB port and off you go! (Note: Infinitec only endorses the download of legally acquired content)

Supports Full HD

Because we understand that the world is moving to HD, we want to you to enjoy that freedom too. The IUM gives you the ability to streaming your movies in full HD (1080p support) so that you can enjoy a better image quality.

Uninterrupted Playback

We understand wireless technology and how unreliable it can be. That’s why we’ve installed measures to protect you from any interference or drop in the wireless signal. So you can enjoy your movies and music with uninterrupted playback.

Compatible with all Operating Systems

It doesn’t matter if your friends or colleagues are using a PC, Mac or Linux computer. The IUM is plug-and-play device that’s recognised by all operating systems so that you can share your files with anyone you choose.

Compatible with Gaming Consoles

We understand that you like to use your flash drives on your video consoles so we’ve made sure you can do the same with your IUM. The IUM is compatible with all major gaming consoles such as PlaysStation3, Xbox360, Wii, etc.

Plug and Play

Since the IUM is the next generation of USB flash drives, it’s compatible with any device that currently accepts the use of traditional flash drives. Everything from printers to digital photo frames. You don’t need to install software or download drivers. It truly is a plug and play device.

Future Proof

Because the IUM is a plug and play device, this means that it will be compatible with all future devices that support USB flash drives. So if one day they make microwaves that have a USB port in them, you’ll be able to use your IUM to make your popcorn as well!

______________________________________________________

How it Works

Intro

Why is the IUM is the next generation of USB flash drives? Because it looks and feels like a traditional USB memory drive, but has none of the limitations of these devices. This is because the IUM does not actually store any memory on the drive itself. Instead, it uses your laptop’s WiFi signal to connect to it and then leverages your laptop’s storage capabilities as its own. This means that you get to decide what is the storage capabilities of your IUM instead of having to buy a larger capacity flash drive every year.

The IUM’s storage can be as large as the entire hard disk of your laptop or even larger. This is because you can share all the external hard drives and servers that your laptop has access to. Ultimately the more storage space that your laptop has access to, the larger the memory of the IUM will appear to be. And because a laptop can always find access to additional servers or hard drives, these can all be combined to create the IUM’s infinite capacity.

In addition, the IUM is a Plug-and-Play drive: when it’s connected to any USB equipped device, it will always appear as a standard off-the-shelve flash drive. This means that you’ll never need to install any drivers or software on any of the devices you want to use it with.

Pairing Process

So what happens after you get back from the store, excited about purchasing your first IUM? Well the first thing you need to do is pair it with your laptop. The IUM pairs uniquely to a single laptop and this laptop becomes the host or “brains” of the IUM. This is a very simple process; all you need to do is move the IUM’s selector switch to ‘pair’ mode and then plug it into your laptop’s USB port. This will automatically install the Infinite Portal software on your laptop which will then pair the IUM to your laptop.

The pairing process is designed to uniquely identify your IUM from others that may be around. Your IUM will only work with your laptop while other IUMs will only work with their owners’ laptops. By pairing each IUM with a unique host laptop, you and your colleagues can all use your IUMs simultaneously without having any incompatibility or interconnection issues.

Once the IUM is paired to your laptop, you simply unplug it, shift the switch back into ‘infinite’ mode and you’re ready to go!

Infinite Portal

So how do you use and control your IUM? Well it’s simple really; the Infinite Portal provides you with all the tools you will need to do that. This user-friendly application is extremely intuitive and allows you to fully control the behaviour of your IUM. You can use it to set the maximum storage size of the IUM, to decide what file system should be used and to easily mark or unmark the files and folders that you want to make visible on the IUM. It even comes with a set of organisation tools to help you keep your shared content into an easy to use directory structure.

In addition, the Infinite Portal comes equipped with a full set of performance monitoring tools. These allow you to constantly check the connectivity status of the IUM, the transfer speed and throughput. That way you always know what’s happening on your IUM no matter who is using it or for what purpose.

Ultimately, the Infinite Portal is a very powerful tool that gives you full control over your IUM so that you can decide how and for what it’s used.

Product Uses

So, what can you use your IUM for? So many things! Think of the uses of a flash memory drive and now multiply them by infinity! Here are some of the most common uses but we’re sure you’ve already thought of many more:

1. Next Generation USB Memory Drive

How many times have you been in the situation where you want to give your friend or colleague a bunch of files but just couldn’t get your hands on the right flash drive to do it? Either your existing flash drive wasn’t large enough, it was already reaching its storage limit or you had confidential information on it that you didn’t want anyone else to see. In the end, you either had to sort through your flash drive contents deciding what to delete or you had to use the drive back-and-forth several times to transfer all the files. With the IUM these issues are over. You simply lend your IUM to your friend or colleague and use the Infinite Portal to give them access to whatever files you want them to copy. Whether it’s 1 kilobyte of data or 1 terabyte, the IUM will never run out of space or give you any hassle.

2. DVD Players, Media Players, Blu-ray Players and LCD Screens

We all love downloading movies, trailers and TV shows but we all hate having to watch them on our laptops screens when we have a larger TV at home. The IUM solves that problem. Simply plug your IUM into the USB port of your DVD player, media player, Blu-ray player or new generation TV and you can steam all your movies directly to it. All you need to do is use the Infinite Portal to share your video collection on your IUM and you’re ready to go. Just don’t forget the popcorn!

3. HiFi Stereo Systems & Amplifiers

Our music must go with us at all times. That’s why we have MP3 players in all shapes and sizes. But sometimes we want to blast those tunes on our HiFi systems without having to burn songs on DVDs or wrestle with connectivity cables. And since most new HiFi systems come with USB support, your problems are solved. Connect the IUM to your HiFi, share the three million songs that are on your laptop and they can all be played on your large stereo system. Just don’t forget to keep the volume down so the neighbours don’t call the police!

4. Video Gaming Consoles

Gaming consoles are rapidly becoming the norm for multimedia. Whether you want to watch a movie, play some music or play through your album of pictures. These devices are becoming extremely popular for more than just their video gaming features. The only problem is that they’re limited by having to use media servers with them when you have a large amount of content. But what happens if you don’t want to spend a fortune on media servers? The answer is simple, use your IUM. It will allow you to stream all your media files from your laptop straight onto the console. No wires, no hassle, no running back and forth.

5. Digital Photo frames

So you’re back from your holidays and you have five thousand photos that you took while you were there. Now how do you transfer them all to your digital photo frame quickly and without hassle? Use your IUM. Plug it into your photo frame, choose your pictures, mark them as shared and they are immediately on display.

6. Printers

Most new printers have USB ports for printing from memory sticks. For those printers, the IUM can be connected to allow you to print your documents wirelessly. Just connect your IUM, share the documents you want to print and you’re set to go while you’re still relaxing on the couch.

7. Projectors

New projectors are slowly coming out with USB ports. Can you imagine being able to go into a meeting and not have to wrestle with cables and the screen capabilities of your laptop? Well that’s what we do for you. Simply connect the IUM into the projector, choose the presentation you want to display and it instantly appears on the screen. How impressed will your boss be when you pull that one off?

Those people (my parents) who have trouble adjusting to new technology may find the new Panasonic DMP-BD70V Blu-Ray VHS Combo Player to be just the right product to help them transition into modern times.

For the “low-low” price of $140 you can get the DMP-BD70V from Amazon which also features a SD card slot, a USB port, and ethernet functionality  that allows you to stream content such as YouTube and Amazon VOD.

I don’t know how long this price will last but if you’ve been hesitant about purchasing a Blu-Ray player, it might not get better than this.

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I must have completely missed this thing at CES this year.  What is basically a digital picture frame that runs widgets, news has now reached the blogs that the Sony Dash will now be able to run streaming video from a host of websites including Netflix.

What could be a game changer for this device, pricing is set a $200 and it will start shipping in April.  Get your dash and get your swerve on.

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Do you care about 1080p versus the current 720p found on the Xbox 360 and Roku box?  At this point I’d rather the improved sound and then the higher resolution since the bandwidth demands are probably twice that of the current HD resolution.

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Yesterday Steve Jobs touted the iPad as being the best way to view mobile video.  While iTunes will quench most people’s thirst for movies and Tv programs, as of now NetFlix streaming will not be available on the iPad.

NetFlix CEO Reed Hastings has said that they are not currently developing an app to view streaming content for the iPad or any other Apple device.  Reed laid mention to the fact that they are still trying to conquer the “large screen” format and want to primarily focus on that for the time being.

What most people might not be aware of is that NetFlix uses Microsoft’s IIS Media Services to stream content through the Silverlight plugin, and has as of recent enabled IIS7 to transcode to an iPhone-compatible stream so you can use it through mobile Safari instead of needing a separate app to do so.

The bottom line is that the technology is there, but so far NetFlix isn’t interested.

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Sonos has long stood in obscurity thanks to its multiroom, multiparty system and hefty price tag.  Now the company is looking to break down the complexity barrier with the Sonos S5, introduced just this past October for $399. In a nutshell the S5 is a speaker system that can stream your computer’s stored music, Internet radio and a multitude of music services (Pandora, Last.fm, Napster, etc).

Inside the all white box – it has a Bose like aesthetic – are five speakers: two tweeters, two mid range woofers and a dedicated sub, each powered by their own digital amplifier.  On its rear is a 3.5mm line input, two Ethernet ports and a power plug.  Wireless is built-in, but won’t work with your home’s WiFi router right out of the box.  Instead you’ll need to purchase a Sonos ZoneBridge, a $99 tax if you want to unhinge your S5 from the wired proximity of your router (note: check their FAQ on router compatibility; some don’t work).

To control the Sonos S5 you’ll need either a computer, Sonos CR200 controller or an iPhone/iPod Touch.  As mentioned, if you have intentions of placing your Sonos S5 wire free (with the exception of the power) you’ll need to purchase a Zonebridge.  By Ethernet wire it connects to your router and using a proprietary version of 802.11n it streams music to the Sonos S5.  I found this to be a disappointing requirement since it not only increases the price tag by 25% but partially negates the turn-keyness I expected from the S5, especially seeing as its intentions are to be an all-in-one music box.

Initial setup of the S5 isn’t a simple plug and play, but with a bit of tinkering I was able to get it to play nicely with my computer’s music and Pandora’s streaming music service.  I suggest using your computer for initial setup, especially if you want to stream your computer’s music.  Plus you’ll want to register your Sonos S5 if you want to access Pandora and the other compatible music services, otherwise they’re not available (you can register from your iPhone as well).

In order to stream your computer’s music, at least on a Mac you’ll need to turn on file sharing and enable “Share files and folders using SMB” under your system preferences.  I performed this operation a few times, but after unplugging the S5 and moving it I had to ‘re-add my music library’, which is just a few simple button clicks, nonetheless an annoyance.  Each time you add a music library the Sonos S5 indexes the information and provides the info to any controlling devices, such as the iPhone or CR200 controller.

The iPhone is very well suited to control the S5 and Sonos has gone to great lengths to emulate the look and feel of the iPhone’s iPod menus.  There a wide array of music options to choose from including Internet radio, local Internet radio (you enter your zip code during registration) and more.  You can also set an Alarm to ring daily, weekends or Monday – Friday.  It can either play the Sonos chime, playlist from your computer or your music service of choosing.

It was a bit of a let down that you can’t stream your iPhone’s stored music to the Sonos S5, especially since this would make the whole system much more turnkey, but again, Sonos has chosen a proprietary version of 802.11n limiting its wireless compatibility.   Of note, Sonos’ iPhone app’s menus are very speedy and I experienced no lag when trying to access my music library (once loaded) or music services.

What I didn’t do, but would suggest, is connecting the Sonos S5 to a NAS, otherwise known a network attached storage.  Utilizing this setup will mean that the S5 will always be attached to your music library and won’t require you to wake your computer from sleep, especially if you depend on the built-in alarm system.

Now down to the meat and potatoes of the S5: the sound.  Unlike some other previous speakers that I reviewed in the past, the S5 is L-O-U-D.  Sound quality is pretty solid, though at times some tunes were a bit bright and lacking what I would deem a wide spectrum of sound.  Fortunately, Sonos tossed in a manual EQ allowing you to adjust treble, bass, balance and even turn on ‘loudness’, which increases bass at low volumes.

I tested the S5 with a wide variety of music including rap (50 Cent), classical (Bach) and pop (Michael Jackson).  The classical probably sounded the most balanced since the sounds are largely mids and highs, while the rap tended to sound a built hollow and lack solid mids and the deep lows.  Michael Jackson’s Thriller album was very well suited for the S5, though it was a bit ‘bright’ at times.  For the most part the S5 can handle any genre of music, but shines brighter with select genres.

As it often does, it comes down to price.  The $498 price tag (includes $99 for the wireless ZoneBridge, $399 without) makes the Sonos S5 ZonePlayer an expensive, but convenient resolve for all your musical audio needs.  And since it boasts it’s own Internet connection, it doesn’t require your computer or iPhone to be turned on to emit audio, unless of course you want to switch stations or songs.

You can buy the Sonos S5 ZonePlayer from Amazon for $399

Pros:

• Nice minimalist design
• Good audio range for small footprint
• Compatible with wide array of music services

Cons:

• Doesn’t play music from iPhone
• Not wireless out of the box
• Requires iPhone or computer to control

Being is that I have not had cable in years, I never get to watch Monday Night Football because it’s always on ESPN.  Rumors are abound that ESPN and Microsoft are taking clandestine meetings in regards to broadcasting live sporting events on Xbox Live.

While all this is currently unsubstantiated, Microsoft “could” effectively absorb the ESPN fees, making it free to Xbox Live Gold Members. Or not.   Content would be similar to ESPN 360 (nice), and would be a great addition to the already robust Xbox Live experience.  Thoughts?

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Got a Wii?  Rocking a Netflix account?  Good news.  Coming this Spring you’ll be able to stream Netflix directly to the video game console.  Of course you’ll need to make sure you’ve got an Internet connection, an $8.99 a month plan or higher and the Netflix disc inserted.  Yup, you’ll need a disc to watch Netflix on your Wii.

To reserve your disc, just login into your Netflix account and then hit the ‘read’ link.  Click on the button and you’re good.  I just ordered it by accident.  Looks like someone is getting an early bday present.

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I guess it was just a matter of time until Boxee announced their own hardware.  Although the Boxee Box – yup, that’s the name – press release is devoid of specs, it’s pretty clear that this thing will stream music and video directly to your television sans computer.  What we do know is that it has a few video connectivity options (HDMI, SPDIF, RCA Audio) to choose from in addition to 2x USB ports, WiFi (802.11n) and wired Ethernet.   The Boxee Box, which is built by D-Link, should go on sale Q2 of 2010 for about $200 and will include an RF remote.

I’m ultra psyched and I’m def. gonna by one.

Full release after the ‘leap’

D-Link/Boxee Partnership Statement

In front of a packed house at their Boxee Beta Unveiling event in Brooklyn this evening, Boxee revealed that D-Link has been named first choice as the hardware partner to release a Boxee branded device for the living room.

Boxee is the best way to enjoy content from the Internet or a computer on a TV screen. With the Boxee Box™ by D-Link®, the two companies have created the easiest way to bring this experience into the living room, allowing people to watch tens of thousands of movies & TV Shows, organize and play their favorite home movies and photos, and play great music from their home network or from Internet sources like Pandora.

“By pairing Boxee’s innovative social entertainment platform with D-Link’s technology we’re able to create a solution that introduces people to what TV should be. Additionally we’re bringing a new level of social interaction to the living room,” said Daniel Kelley, senior director of marketing, D-Link Systems, Inc. “We can’t wait to bring this product to market and are looking forward to demonstrate the Boxee Box by D-Link at the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show in January.”

“We are happy to be working with D-Link as a hardware partner because we share the same vision for creating solutions to help anyone get the most out of technology,” said Andrew Kippen, vice president of marketing for Boxee. “D-Link has great reach and together we are able to offer consumers an attractive inexpensive solution to bring the Boxee experience directly onto the TV.”

The Boxee Box by D-Link, which has already won a Best of Innovations award from the Computer Electronics Association, reinterprets what TV should be, delivering all the movies, TV shows, music and photos from a user’s computer, home network and Internet to their HDTV with no PC needed. Additionally, Boxee’s core social features make it easy for friends to discover new content from each other through social networks like Facebook, Twitter and more.

In addition to its many software features, The Boxee Box by D-Link makes it easy for consumers to connect the device via HDMI, SPDIF, RCA Audio. The box has 2 USB for expansion and can quickly connect to a home network using both Wi-Fi (802.11n) and wired ethernet.

The Boxee Box will be available through D-Link’s network of etail and retail outlets in the first half of 2010. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is still undetermined.

Sometime early next month Netflix Streaming will arrive on the PS3.  Now, word on rumor street is that the service is coming to the Nintendo Wii.  Reports say that they’re in the testing phase, while other industry insiders say that Nintendo will wait until next year when they launch an HD version of their console, perhaps to offer the full potential of Netflix streaming.

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Pic source: CyberNetNews

Just in time for the holidays, Roku has announced an all new Roku Player…sort of.  Actually, the HD-XR model just adds a USB port (not enabled) and support for 802.11n to the HD version of the box.  You can grab one now for $129.99 or opt for the now discounted SD version for $79.99.  For some the $30 for the HD-XR version might not be worth it, but for those streaming users that want to move their box further from their router it might make sense, and who knows, maybe that currently disabled USB port will actually facilitate not only local play from an attached hard drive but enable it to be a NAS.

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Remember how Microsoft said they had an exclusive deal with Netflix to stream their movies to their Xbox 360?  Wrongzo my friend!  Sony has just inked a deal with the DVD rental company that will bring the service to over 9 million PS3 owners in the US sometime next month.

I can’t find the source, but Netflix obtained millions (more than 1 less than 3) of users as a result of signing a deal with Microsoft’s gaming unit and should probably expect the same once the service goes live on the Playstation.  At a minimum of $8.99 a month (that’s the plan needed to stream movies) I’d expect Netflix’s stock to surge tomorrow.

Oddly enough, it doesn’t look like the Netflix application for the PS3 will initially be offered in their marketplace – you’ll need to reserve a Netflix Instant Streaming disc here.

On a random note, Sony has a deal with Starz.  I wonder if this will cause any conflicts; as in will we see certain movies streaming on the PS3 but not on the Xbox 360?

COMING SOON: NETFLIX MEMBERS CAN INSTANTLY WATCH MOVIES AND TV EPISODES STREAMED TO TVs VIA THE PLAYSTATION®3 COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

With Movies Streamed Instantly from Netflix, Blu-ray/DVD Playback and Downloadable Videos via the PlayStation®Network, the PlayStation 3 System Offers The Industry’s Most Comprehensive Options for Watching Movies and TV Shows

FOSTER CITY and LOS GATOS, Calif., October 26, 2009 – Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) and Netflix, Inc. [Nasdaq: NFLX] today announced that they are joining forces to make thousands of movies and TV episodes from Netflix available to be streamed instantly to TVs via the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system. Netflix expects to begin streaming via the PS3 system next month at no additional cost to Netflix members in the United States who have a PS3 system.

Today’s announcement pairs two of the most popular and fastest growing home entertainment brands in the U.S. The PS3 system’s installed base has reached close to 9 million units in the United States, and Netflix recently reported 11.1 million U.S. subscribers as of September 30.

The partnership further solidifies the PS3 system as the most complete home entertainment hub on the market today, enabling consumers to play high-definition games, watch Blu-ray movies, listen to music, view photos, browse the Internet, and download content from PlayStation®Network − from exclusive games to blockbuster movies and popular TV shows. PS3 system owners will soon enjoy an unparalleled experience watching their favorite movies and TV shows streamed instantly from Netflix, downloading from the PlayStation Network or watching Blu-ray/DVD media. The Netflix offering expands on the entertainment experience delivered to PS3 system owners via PlayStation Network.

For only $8.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed to their TVs and computers via Netflix ready devices such as the PS3 system and can receive unlimited DVDs delivered quickly to their homes.

“The PlayStation 3 system has always been about more than just gaming, and it will soon be the only platform in the industry to offer consumers such a variety of convenient options for enjoying movies and TV shows,” said Jack Tretton, president and CEO, SCEA. “Whether you want to watch content on Blu-ray disc and DVD, download it from the PlayStation Network’s video delivery service, or stream videos instantly from Netflix, the PS3 system is the only solution that offers it all.”

“As instantly watching movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix becomes an increasingly popular way to enjoy the Netflix service, our goal is to rapidly expand the devices that stream to our members,” said Netflix CEO and co-founder Reed Hastings. “As a leading game console and Blu-ray disc player, bringing Netflix to the PS3 system is a real win for both Netflix members and PS3 system owners.”

Initially, watching movies instantly streamed from Netflix via the PS3 system will be enabled by a free, instant streaming Blu-ray disc that is being made available to all Netflix members. The free instant streaming disc leverages Blu-ray’s BD-Live™ technology to access the Internet and activate the Netflix user interface on the PS3 system, which must be online via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Netflix members simply slide the disc into their PS3 systems to reveal movies and TV episodes that can be watched instantly. These titles are conveniently organized into a variety of categories based on members’ personal preferences, popular genres, new arrivals and members’ individual instant Queues. Members can use the Netflix Web site or navigate directly on their PS3 systems to add movies and TV shows to their Queues. With the PS3 system’s Wireless Controller, members can choose a movie to watch from their instant Queues or just play directly from any of the lists. They also have the ability to read synopses and rate movies. In addition, they have the option of fast-forwarding and rewinding the video stream via the Wireless Controller.

Netflix members and PS3 system owners can now reserve a free instant streaming disc for PS3 systems by going to www.netflix.com/ps3. Upon availability, the instant streaming disc will be delivered for free by first-class mail, generally one business day after members request it.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® and PS one® game consoles, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, the ground-breaking PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system and its digital services which include the PlayStation®Network and the PlayStation®Store.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one® game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, and the PlayStation 3 and PSP systems for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

About Netflix, Inc.

Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX) is the world’s largest online movie rental service, with more than more than 11 million subscribers. For only $8.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed to their TVs and computers and can receive unlimited DVDs delivered quickly to their homes. There are never any due dates or late fees. Netflix members can exchange DVDs as often as they want using a postage-paid return envelope. Members can choose from a vast selection of DVD titles and a growing library of movies and TV episodes that can be watched instantly. Netflix is partnering with leaders in consumer electronics to bring to market a range of devices that can instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix directly to members’ TVs. These devices currently include Blu-ray disc players and new Internet TVs from LG Electronics; Blu-ray disc players from Samsung and Best Buy’s Insignia brand; the Roku digital video player; Microsoft’s Xbox 360 game console; TiVo digital video recorders; and, soon, the PS3 system and Internet TVs from Sony and VIZIO.

Holy crap!  Hulu might start charging all you free loaders in 2010.  That isn’t to say there won’t be any free content, just that some of their more premium shows will cost you a penny or 1000.  Personally, I don’t watch my content on Hulu, but after bearing witness to a Boxee install on a Mac Mini I’m not too far off from taking the plunge.  Then again, I’m in no position to kill my cable subscription for fear of losing touch with reality (I never leave my place and require CNN and other skewed news sources to be on at all times).

So, Hulu users, what’s your plan?  Would you drop some greenbacks to watch content online on what was once a free service?  If you ask me it never really panned out for Napster, although they did get bought, but at what profit, if any, I don’t know.

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If you’re looking for media streaming on a very, VERY tight budget, then the Patriot media streamer is EXACTLY what you had in mind.  You’ll need to bring your own hard disk drive, but each Patriot comes with a remote, three USB slots, Ethernet support and support for several different file formats.

Sure, it’s not that great that you have to provide your own hard drive before this thing will actually work, but given the price of the unit and the hard drive itself, chances are you’ll be doing all right.  They provide everything else–all you have to do is bring your picnic basket and enjoy.

And when I said, “very, VERY tight budget”, I meant it.  This sucker retails for a downright reasonable $130.  Of course, you’ll have to tack on a little extra for the hard drive, but new ones aren’t so pricey these days.

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The Netflix account management app is pretty cool on the iPhone.  But it would be a lot cooler if you could stream movies straight out your queue.  According to Netflix CEO Reed Hastings it will happen at some point.  Making it seem like it’s not really one of his priorities he expressed the following:

It’s something that’s likely to come over time. But nothing in the short term. (With) movie watching, we are not focused on mobile yet, but (instead) on the TV, on Blu-ray and on the video game consoles. We will get to mobile eventually, including the iPhone.

We’ve seen Sirius XM make it happen and it only makes sense for Netflix to go that route so hopefully Mr. Hastings can make time to work it out.

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The Rhapsody music app received approval from Apple today.  The news comes on the heels of a new and higher capacity iPod Touch and Nano with a built-in camera.

Any iPhone or iPod Touch user can download the free app now and for 7-days, without punching in a credit card, can stream over 8 million songs direct to their device.  After that you’ll need to drop $14.99 a month for access to Rhapsody on your handset.

Unlike iPod Touch users, iPhone owners will be able to stream music over both WiFi and their cellular connection.  But with that comes a huge caveat: the max streaming bit rate is 64 kilobits per second, something the company claims will prevent interruptions.  Reality check.  Apple and AT&T probably mandated this bit rate as to prevent a bottle neck in AT&T’s 3G pipes.  I’m just surprised they don’t offer a higher bit rate option when connected over WiFi.

Read – iTunes link

Rhapsody streaming app approved for iPhones
By RYAN NAKASHIMA (AP) – 5 hours ago
LOS ANGELES — RealNetworks Inc.’s subscription music service Rhapsody has been approved for use on iPhones and iPod Touches, the first time Apple Inc. has allowed an on-demand music streaming program on its devices in the United States.
The initial download will be free but new subscribers will have to pay $14.99 a month if they want to try it for longer than seven days.
The service will allow users to queue up any of some 8 million songs, and create custom playlists that will stream to the device as long as the user is receiving a cellular signal or is in a WiFi hot spot.
The application is an improvement on Rhapsody To Go, which allows subscribers to load songs onto their Windows Media Player-enabled phones and MP3 players when connected to a computer for later playback.
Seattle-based RealNetworks is planning to allow subscribers to load songs over the air for later playback in a new version by the end of the year.
Current Rhapsody To Go subscribers will be able to use the new app right away without an extra charge.
“This breaks us out of the non-Apple MP3 player segment and now we can reach the iPod Touch and iPhone audience that was unavailable to us before,” said Neil Smith, vice president of business management for Rhapsody America.
RealNetworks currently has some 750,000 subscribers of its unlimited song streaming service. Some pay $12.99 a month for computer-only access but others pay $14.99 for the ability to move those songs to mobile devices.
The songs will be streamed at 64 kilobits per second, which is lower quality than the 256 kbps for songs offered on iTunes, but will help prevent interruptions.
Rhapsody app users will also be offered the ability to buy songs from the iTunes store. RealNetworks will share in the revenue from such sales.
“We’re giving you the ability to listen to any song you want. The ones you really like, you can plunk down the extra $1.29 and buy,” Smith said.

According to an industry source familiar with Netflix’s future plans, the DVD rental company will be bringing their streaming service to an iPhone near you (and the Nintendo Wii).  Of course, this news wasn’t a question of if, but when as Netflix opened up their API to any willing participant and even hinted at the development of such an app.

How soon the app will debut in the iTunes app store is anyone’s guess, but given Netflix’s goal of world dominance in not only the DVD rental space, but the media streaming arena I’d guess that it will be free for all to download.  Unfortunately, it’s unlikely that the service will work over AT&T’s 3G connection, since previous applications that offer streaming media have been limited to a WiFi only connection.

On August 11th, Netflix subscribers with an Xbox and Xbox Live account will enjoy a relatively significant upgrade allowing them to manage their instant queue without leaving their couch.  We’ve already played with the update and like what we see.

Although many of Netflix’s streaming movies and TV shows are old or somewhat ‘b movie quality’, they still offer the most comprehensive selection of streaming media at the lowest price; $8.99.

So if there was ever another reason to get an iPhone, here it is.

[via Zatznotfunny]

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I love it. At some point in the next few years the line between TV and Internet machine will be significantly blurred. Adding to the haziness today is Sony. They’ve announced that their Internet Video-capable BRAVIA TVs and those with the Internet Video Link module will be able to stream Netflix’s 12,000+ movies and TV shows. Like the current Xbox system as well as the Roku player, users will need to create their Instant Queue using a computer, but since the Xbox is set to release an update to their Netflix player that allows users to add movies on the fly, what’s to stop Sony from adding the very same feature in the future, aside from the lack of keyboard. Expect the Netflix feature to hit a Sony TV near you this fall and keep your fingers crossed for some PS3 integration.

Release after the ‘leap’

LOS GATOS, Calif., July 9, 2009 – Netflix, Inc., (Nasdaq: NFLX) the world’s largest online movie rental service, today announced a partnership with Sony Electronics that will enable Netflix subscribers to instantly watch movies streamed from Netflix on Sony’s BRAVIA Internet Video-capable HDTVs and on previous BRAVIA models compatible with Sony’s BRAVIA Internet video link module.
In the fall, Netflix members on an unlimited plan can use the Sony BRAVIA Internet Video-capable HDTVs to instantly watch more than 12,000 movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix.

Sony is the latest consumer electronics (CE) company to partner with Netflix. Other CE companies partnering with Netflix are Microsoft (with the Xbox360), LG Electronics, Roku, Samsung, TiVo and VIZIO.

Netflix members pay as little as $8.99 a month for unlimited streaming from a library of more than 12,000 choices and unlimited DVDs by mail from a library of more than 100,000 DVD titles in more than 200 genres.

“Sony has been a world leader in consumer electronics for decades,” said Netflix Chief Executive Officer Reed Hastings. “We are proud to include Sony Electronics among our CE partners who continue to provide new and exciting ways for Netflix members to instantly watch movies and TV episodes in their living rooms on their TVs.”