New Sony Bravia Line Features YouTube

[Scooby Blu]

Sony announced Thursday that it has inked an agreement with YouTube that allows content from the online video provider to be shown via Sony’s Bravia Internet Video Link Service.

The pact brings to 25 the number of content providers available on the service, which is accessible via an outboard $299.99 module that can be either freestanding or attached to the rear of Sony V, W, Z, and XBR Series TVs – all of which carry the requisite DMex (Digital Media Extender) port.

The capability to view Internet content on TVs “will change what TV is defined as in people’s homes,” said Sony’s senior vice president of the Home Products Division, Randy Waynick, in announcing the partnership. “It’s a whole new game.”

Also unveiled at the same time were additions to the company’s XBR line, including, on the top-tier XBR8 LCD TV series, a new Triluminos RGB LED backlighting technology that, combined with local dimming technology which yields improved black-level performance, according to Sony’s vice president of television and projector marketing, Jeff Goldstein. The complete Sony TV range includes 30 models from 19 to 70 inches.

Three new Bravia Link modules – Wireless HDMI Link, HDMI Multi-Link and DVD Link – slated to hit retail shelves by year’s end, were also shown. The wireless module allows high-definition video streaming.

In audio, Sony also took the wraps off the HT-IS100 5.1-channel micro-satellite-speaker surround system that it has optimized for high-definition TV viewing, it says. Shipping in July at $700, it boasts a combination subwoofer/digital amplifier and five satellite speakers that are each the size of a golf ball; also on board are three HDMI inputs. Its rear channels can be rendered wireless with a kit and sound can be streamed to other rooms using the S-AIR Air Station wireless speakers.


The times are a changin !!!