Vizio has introduced a new set-top-box that brings internet video, apps, and games to a TV. The Vizio Co-Star is a $99.99 device that you can connect to your TV or hook up to an existing cable or satellite box, letting you access live TV as well as apps or web content.
The device is powered by the latest Google TV software, which hasn’t been widely successful to date. But the first Google TV boxes from Sony and Logitech had prices closer to $300. With a price that’s three times lower, the Vizio Co-Star could be an interesting alternative to a Roku, Apple TV, or Boxee Box.
The Co-Star will be available in July, and it’s already available for pre-order from Vizo’s website.
Vizio’s new set-top-box features HDMI inputs and outputs, support for 720p and 1080p video playback, native support for H.264, MP4, and MKV video, and 5.1 channel audio.
It also has a USB 2.0 port, 802.11b/g/n WiFi, 10/100 Ethernet, Bluetooth, support for DLNA devices, and a universal remote control with touchpad in the center.
The Co-Star measures 4.2″ x 4.2″ x 1.6″ and weighs 0.66 pounds.
As a Google TV device the box can run a number of apps including YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon Instant Video. Vizio says the Co-Star is also the first media streaming device to include support for OnLive, a service that lets you stream PC and console video games over the internet.
In other words, you can play Xbox or PS3 games by connecting a USB or wireless joystick to the Co-Star. OnLive offers free trials of some games, but you’ll have to either pay for a subscription or pay for access to individual games if you want to play a title from start to finish.
Aside from high prices, some of the early Google TV devices suffered from a lack of available content. On paper, Google TV and Co-Star appear to have overcome both problems. When the device actually starts shipping next month I suppose we’ll find out whether Google’s TV software is really ready for prime time yet.
Sony is also introducing its next-generation Google TV box, the Sony NSZ-GS7. Priced at $200 it appears to be a lot like the cheaper Vizio Co-Star, but it has 2 USB ports and a remote control with a QWERTY keyboard built into the back.
Pre-ordered this big ball of awesome. 😀
looks like a branded version of one of the A5 or A10 settop boxen from China.
Hopefully we can get linux running on it
I’m pretty sure most Vizio products already use a linux based framework
I’m surprised these manufacturers are all developing proprietary remotes. It would be far cheaper (and more versatile) to include two USB 2.0 ports instead of a single port, and bundle an inexpensive Chinese wireless USB keyboard/mouse combo.
You know, an OnLive micro console that ONLY DOES ONLIVE is $99. That makes this pretty much the best OnLive deal, ever.
The price is law then the other products available in the market, i compared it on internet and found the cheapest one from it.