My problem with today's cable box is that it is slow to respond, unfriendly, and hard to navigate. It's primary duty is access to DVR and VOD. It is clunky, inflexible to my needs, and inconsiderate to my viewing habits. Recently, my family was watching a movie on demand that we purchased. In the middle of viewing, it abruptly turned to a show to be recorded. Why? Because both turners were set to record and the box couldn't even ask what we wanted to do with this conflict. So it stopped the movie. Disappointing.
At the same time, I am hopeful that we will someday look back and laugh at this early generation of connection. The converter box offers great potential. Combine the advantages of slingbox with the software of Tivo, add in connectivity to gaming a la Wii and Playstation and create a device that talks to all the devices in the home and puts the controls in the hand of the user. Remotely set your thermostat, get activity on your sump pump, know who is at the front door, watch a pre-recorded tv show or your local baseball game on the road, and then set a recording schedule for your dvr from your same hotel room. Wired, wireless, at home, and remotely, interconnectivity and communication is key. The cable box talking to all these devices and easy to use is essential. The company that can deliver this value will win the user and viewer.
No comments:
Post a Comment