At IDF 2010 (Intel Developer Forum), Intel & Asus unveiled the new Asus Companion Box equipped with an Intel Atom CE4100 processor and Windows Media Centre Embedded.
The new streaming media device does not have any internal hard drives and does include an ATSC tuner and component video output for HD sources. However, one of the most surprising omissions is the lack of WiFi connectivity. This could be a significant drawback for users who prefer wireless connections for their home entertainment systems.
Features and Specifications
The Asus Companion Box is designed to be a versatile media streaming device, leveraging the power of the Intel Atom CE4100 processor. This processor is specifically tailored for consumer electronics, providing efficient performance for media playback and streaming. The inclusion of Windows Media Center Embedded adds a unique dimension to the device, offering a user-friendly interface and a range of media management features.
Despite its lack of internal storage, the device supports external storage options, allowing users to connect USB drives or external hard drives to access their media libraries. The ATSC tuner enables users to watch over-the-air HD broadcasts, making it a comprehensive solution for both streaming and live TV viewing.
The component video output ensures compatibility with older HDTVs that may not have HDMI inputs, broadening the device’s appeal to a wider audience. However, the absence of WiFi means that users will need to rely on wired Ethernet connections, which could be a limitation for some households.
Windows Media Center Embedded
Windows Media Center Embedded is a streamlined version of the popular Windows Media Center software, optimized for embedded devices like the Asus Companion Box. It offers a familiar interface with easy access to live TV, recorded shows, music, photos, and online streaming services. The software is designed to be intuitive, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.
One of the standout features of Windows Media Center Embedded is its ability to integrate with other Windows devices, allowing for seamless media sharing across a home network. This means that users can easily stream content from their PCs or other Windows-based devices to the Asus Companion Box, creating a cohesive home entertainment ecosystem.
You can find out more about Windows new Media Center Embedded including screenshots and video over at Engadget
The new Asus Companion Box is expected to ship in the first half of 2011, but prices are yet to be released. Given its feature set and the inclusion of Windows Media Center Embedded, it will be interesting to see how it is priced compared to other streaming devices on the market.
The Asus Companion Box represents an intriguing addition to the media streaming market. Its combination of the Intel Atom CE4100 processor and Windows Media Center Embedded offers a unique proposition, although the lack of WiFi may be a dealbreaker for some. As we await further details on pricing and availability, it remains to be seen whether this device will carve out a significant niche in the competitive landscape of home entertainment technology.
Via Engadget
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