Module Allows Most New Sony TVs to Access Free Content and High-Definition Video from the Internet
Sony Electronics today announced that the company’s recently introduced “BRAVIA™ Internet Video Link” module will ship in July and retail for about $300.
When attached to a compatible Sony television, the module will enable access to Internet video programming, including high-definition content, from providers like AOL, Yahoo! and Grouper, as well as Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony BMG Music.
“Internet video popularity has reached an all-time high, but until now there was no easy way to bring it into the living room,” said Randy Waynick, senior vice president of the Home Products Division at Sony Electronics. “The BRAVIA Internet Video Link seamlessly streams Internet video content to your TV the way it’s intended — free of any additional charge.”
A majority of Sony’s 2007 television models will be BRAVIA Internet Video Link-ready with the capability to receive streaming broadband video, including high-definition content. The module, which is sold separately, attaches easily and is concealed behind the TV for a clean, integrated appearance — even when hung on the wall.
The module links the television set directly to existing broadband Internet service provider via an Ethernet connection. Content, which includes Internet video programming, music videos, movie trailers, user generated videos and RSS feeds, can then be accessed directly on the TV without the use of a personal computer.
Sony’s Technical Emmy award-winning Xross Media Bar (XMB)™ user interface will help users navigate on-screen through Internet video content, as well as the standard TV menu features on most of the company’s 2007 television models.
The BRAVIA Internet Video Link module will be supported by Sony’s recently announced BRAVIA HDTV line including the S-series flat-panel LCD line (KDL-46S3000, KDL-40S3000, KDL-32S3000 and KDL-26S3000) and the new KDF-37E3000 micro-display, which ship this spring.
Other new BRAVIA models supporting the module include the new V-series and XBR flat-panel LCD line (KDL-46V3000, KDL-40V3000 and KDL-32XBR4) and the E-series micro-display line (KDF-50E3000 and KDF-46E3000), shipping this summer.
The module and televisions will be available direct from Sony at www.sonystyle.com and at Sony Style retail stores in fashion malls around the country, as well as at authorized retailers nationwide.