Content traditionally dedicated and segregated to computers or to TV sets is increasingly trading places, as well as being repurposed to other venues such as video iPod-like devices from Apple and Microsoft, PDAs, and cell phones. Hewlett-Packard is currently marketing a product called MediaSmart that looks like a standard 37-inch LCD set, but includes a multimedia hub with wireless connectivity for streaming HD/SD video content from PC to TV screen.
When connected to a Windows PC, the TV monitor becomes a still picture or video playback device. HP said the unit is compatible with Windows Media Connect, and the Universal Plug and Play standard will search for media servers on a home network and allow browsing for movies, music and photos using a remote control.
The DTV set plays HD Windows Media content and MP3 music devices. It includes a digital audio outport and two external speakers. The 6-inch deep 720p unit includes HDMI, S-Video and component video ports, and a built-in tuner.
Another firm, AutumnWave, has a new product called OnAir GT that is now at some Wal-Mart outlets and could be in other big box stores by late fall. OnAir HDTV GT plugs into a computer using a standard USB 2.0 port to retrieve terrestrial HD broadcasts. The device can be attached to a digital cable system, as well, to record HD/SD content to a PC hard drive.
According to an article in Forbes, the new product is being marketed as a space-saving mobile device for college dorms, work cubicles, and other traditionally confined spaces.
