Here’s our weekly wrap-up of technology news in the consumer electronics and entertainment industries.
Google Play launches on LG Smart TVs
It’s been a long time waiting for LG Smart TV owners to be able to access Google Play directly through the set’s OS, but the ‘Movies and TV’ app from Google has finally launched. The video titles are available in both SD and HD, and the app is available for both webOS and its predecessors NetCast 4.0 and 4.5. Read more
Aspire HD channel added to AT&T and DirecTV
New high definition channels are like discovered gold these days, and last week AT&T and its subsidiary DirecTV added Magic Johnson’s Aspire network. AT&T and DirecTV also added UP channel, but it’s only available on U-verse in HD. Read more
Dolby Atmos & Dolby Vision titles arrive on Vudu
Video and audiophiles heavily into home theater technology have got to be itching to watch movies in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Now, those with supporting 4k TVs (such as VIZIO’s Reference Series), catch watch a bunch of titles from the online video service Vudu such as Mad Max: Fury Road, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., and Man of Steel. Read more
Univision launches Over-the-Top streaming service
The Spanish-language networks Univision and UniMás are now available through the newly launched Univision Now. The $5.99 per month service doesn’t require a TV provider account to subscribe, and, will stream live programming and local broadcasts in select markets. Read more
Samsung’s Gear VR goggles now on sale
The newest push in virtual reality is getting some help from Samsung, with their just-released $100 Gear VR headset. The VR gear works with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone for display, processing, and apps, with games like Jurassic World and Land’s End readily available to test out. Reviews are mixed. Read more (NY Times)
Next Alien film will be called Alien: Covenant
Not exactly tech news, but close enough. 20th Century Fox has confirmed the name of the next Alien-franchise film slated for 2017 release will be called Alien: Covenant, not “Alien: Paradise Lost” as it was previously referred to. Read more
Comcast Launches Stream TV in Chicago
Comcast’s over-the-top Stream TV service launched in Chicago, offering internet-delivered access to major broadcast networks, “thousands” of on-demand titles, HBO, and Cloud DVR service for $15 per month. Stream TV is also available in limited markets in Boston, Indiana and Michigan. Read more (Multichannel)
