Barb Gonzalez

SmartStream
FCC Net Neutrality Rules: Can Internet Slowdowns Be Avoided?
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 22, 2014
Don't Let Images Like this Become Commonplace

The FCC has presented its ideas for how to maintain net neutrality and an Open Internet. It's more than slowing down the Internet for some websites while allowing others to pay for a fast lane. It's time for you to comment on how you imagine an open internet and help save net neutrality.

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SmartStream
Hulu App to Offer Free TV Episodes and Remote Casting
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 14, 2014
Hulu has announced that this summer they will offer streaming of full TV episodes to the mobile app without requiring a Hulu Plus subscription. The Hulu app now has remote casting capabilities that extend to more devices.
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SmartStream
Amazon Instant Video's X-Ray Nails the Second-Screen Experience
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 07, 2014
Many Amazon streaming movies and TV shows include the X-ray feature that dynamically lists actors and other information on the Amazon's Kindle Fire. It's a must for any IMDB addict.
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Amazon Prime to Offer Unlimited Streaming of Many HBO Shows
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 02, 2014
Many HBO shows will be available for unlimited streaming on Amazon Prime Instant Video, but not all shows will be included in the May 21st launch. While this breakthrough licensing agreement grants exclusivity to Amazon for free streaming, shows will still be available on other streaming services.
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Media Server Reviews
Google Chromecast Streaming Media Player
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 01, 2014

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $35

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Streams full-screen videos from Netflix and YouTube
Mirrors Websites
Control videos from computer or mobile device
Minus
Must go to Chromecast Website to learn when new apps become compatible
No central control panel or app
Clumsy to pause video streaming from a phone when a call comes in

THE VERDICT
For $35 and a little practice, this is the best streaming solution available to date.

The Google Chromecast was an instant hit when it came on the tech scene, selling out before its release date last August. At $35, it’s the least expensive way to stream movies and music to your TV and view photos from online. Unique in its approach to streaming media, the Chromecast dongle can stream from a Chrome Web browser (PC or Mac) and from certain apps on iPhones, iPads, and Android phones and tablets.

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Hands On: D-Link Shareport Go III Portable Router
Barb Gonzalez  |  Apr 09, 2014
D-Link's newest portable router is easy to use and finally makes it easy to stream to a Chromecast dongle, Roku HDMI, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV or other media player. It also secures your connection to Wi-Fi.
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Streaming Device Reviews
Amazon Fire TV Streaming Media Player
Barb Gonzalez  |  Apr 08, 2014

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $99

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Effective voice search function
Powerful quad-core processor
ASAP feature loads movies for instant playback
HDMI CEC functionality
Minus
Voice search and watchlists not functional for all services
Limited on-demand video apps

THE VERDICT
Fire TV is a solid performer, but it needs more content and services, and a global search option, to make it a hit.

Amazon surprised the world last week by announcing the details of its new standalone media player, the Amazon Fire TV, on the very same day it was released for sale. Priced at $99, Fire TV is positioned to compete with the top-selling Apple TV and Roku 3 box.

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SmartStream
Plex Media Server's Growing Pains
Barb Gonzalez  |  Apr 02, 2014
Plex media server's recent updates add some great features like Chromecast compatibility, but are plagued by issues. Here's what new with this popular streaming media solution.
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TiVo Founders Announce Qplay Streaming App
Barb Gonzalez  |  Mar 26, 2014
The team that brought us TiVo, now release a new way to stream online video with the Qplay. Check out how it compares to other streaming devices including the Chromecast and whether it is as revolutionary as the TiVo duo claim.
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Will Short Video Streaming Kill the Feature Film?
Barb Gonzalez  |  Mar 20, 2014
As the popularity of streaming short videos continues to grow, what will happen to feature film length movies, and TV shows? A panel at the Sun Valley Film Festival discusses the changing face of streaming content.
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