Digital Home Thoughts: VuNow PoD Finally Available

"Just in time to snag some of that cash you're sure to have showing up right about now via greeting cards from around the world, Verismo Networks is officially launching its diminutive VuNow PoD. We've seen the device evolve quite a bit since June, but with a smorgasbord of competitors already grabbing market share left and right, we're left to wonder if this one won't be sitting on the outside looking in. The internet TV streamer hooks directly to one's TV and internet connection in order to deliver web content (YouTube, of note) to the tele. While specifics are conveniently omitted, we're told that users will have access to "a broad choice of online video content -- from movies, global Live TV channels, to user-generated content and viral videos." It's available now for $99, but can you stand yet another set-top-box beneath your flat-panel?"

I recently mentioned that this diminutive video player would be available on December 15th. Well, Verismo missed that date, but not by much. Nothing appears to have really changed upon launch, including the price at $99. While it can't record, it definitely seems to be an attractive playback device you can use if you've got multiple televisions around the house. There's no word on how easy it will be to use, but with a focus on just playback, I imagine it to be as easy as any other third party device, meaning it'll be no iTunes, but it'll get the job done. For me, I've got laptops that allow me to play anything I want to watch around my pad, but maybe some of you can find use for this over a towering media center.