June 25th, 2009
VIZIO introduces Internet app-enabled XVT HDTV series
Who really needs to pay extra for a TiVo or DVR during these trying economic times, right? VIZIO recently announced a new line of HDTVs that will incorporate video streaming sites and video applications. I got a chance to check out the TVs yesterday, and I was duly impressed.
The fall 2009 line of Extreme VIZIO Technology series (XVT) allows you to subscribe to Vudu, Netflix, Blockbuster OnDemand, Amazon Video On Demand, and Rhapsody, and you can stream content for free from sites like Showtime and Pandora. The TVs also enable you to choose widgets for your favorite Internet time-wasting sites, like Facebook, Flickr, and Twitter.
The HDTVs range in size from 32 inches to 55 inches. All models include USB video inputs that offer high quality 1080p video playback. The 42-inch to 55-inch models offer 240 scenes per second at 1080p with Smooth Motion technology.
Besides the amazing picture quality, the VIZIO Internet Apps (VIA) is what makes this new line of HDTVs really special. The VIA Connnected HDTV feature has bulit-in wireless (802.11n) and wired networking. If you’re a Rhapsody user, you can access Rhapsody right from your TV with the Rhapsody widget
The remote (pictured above) is also a neat little addition. The Bluetooth remote has a slide-down QWERTY keyboard, which finally eliminates that annoying on-screen keying.
And these TVs won’t break the bank either. The HDTVs range in price from $749.99 to $2,199.99. You can expect to start seeing some models in July, but most will be out by September.
Jennifer R. Bergen is a journalist and blogger living in New York City. See her full profile and disclosure of her industry affiliations.
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