TiVo, famous for its DVR devices that capture and record TV programs in real-time, is wading into the streaming wars with a new one-stop entertainment platform, says CEO Dave Shull.
The company, which in recent years has survived through its patent licensing business, is set to launch TiVo Stream 4K, an HDMI attachment that will combine multiple streaming apps and digital video services into one interface.
“We’re not using the word ‘DVR’ anymore. We’re not using the word ‘guide’ anymore,” Shull told Cheddar. “We’re all-in on the streaming wars.”
While platforms like Roku or Amazon Fire TV Stick combine streaming apps into a single plug-in hub, Shull says TiVo Stream will emphasize easier access to shows, movies, and other content over switching between apps.
“What’s unique about TiVo Stream 4K is that it’s all about the shows,” Shull said. “Most of the competition out there right now, they force people to go from app to app to app.”
In effect, this would erase the barriers between services like Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime, creating a single catalog of searchable content. Shull said that the time is ripe for this kind of innovation, as your average consumer now subscribes to seven different streaming services, up from four in 2016.
The device will cost $69.99 but will launch at a discounted price of $49.99 for a limited time.
For live programming, TiVo has partnered with Sling TV and will also aggregate 49 different channels of digital-first content. Shull says TiVo’s long history of offering convenience in entertainment has prepared it for the chaotic world of streaming.
As TiVo’s stock dipped two percent during the morning, Shull made the case that TiVo is uniquely situated to capitalize on the latest technology trends. Since Shull took over as CEO back in May, the company has considered a number of possibilities for its future, including splitting into two entities: a consumer-focused brand and a licensing business.
The plan was scrapped in December when TiVo announced a deal to merge with Xperi, a licensing firm specializing in semiconductor technology. Shull says the combined company will explore new back-end technology solutions for homes and automobiles.
“We have an amazing opportunity here, because we do power more than 20 million households around the world and have a very tight partnership with cable companies.”
James Gallagher, CEO and Co-Founder of GreenLite, discusses the challenges of rebuilding the fire-affected LA area and how permitting complicates the process.
Super Bowl Champion, Julian Edelman, talks Chiefs' conspiracies, his fave TSwift song and his bet for Super Bowl LIX. Plus, the best time for a bathroom break.
Ron Hammond, Sr. Director of Government Relations at the Blockchain Association, breaks down Trump’s plan to strengthen U.S. leadership in financial technology.
BiggerPockets Money podcast is now available on Cheddar Wednesdays at 10am ET! Mindy Jensen shares how her podcast is helping people gain financial freedom.
The social video platform's future remains in doubt, as players scramble to profit from the chaos. Plus: Big oil gets bigger, DOGE downsizes, and tariffs!
Ty Young, CEO of Ty J. Young Wealth Management, joins Cheddar to discuss Trump's moves as he returns to Washington D.C. and how it may affect the U.S. economy.
Starbucks’ decision to restrict its restrooms to paying customers has flushed out a wider problem: a patchwork of restroom use policies that varies by state and city. Starbucks announced last week a new code of conduct that says people need to make a purchase if they want to hang out or use the restroom. The coffee chain's policy change for bathroom privileges has left Americans confused and divided over who gets to go and when. The American Restroom Association, a public toilet advocacy group, was among the critics. Rules about restroom access in restaurants vary by state, city and county. The National Retail Federation says private businesses have a right to limit restroom use.
President Donald Trump is talking up a joint venture investing up to $500 billion for infrastructure tied to artificial intelligence by a new partnership formed by OpenAI, Oracle and SoftBank. The new entity, Stargate, will start building out data centers and the electricity generation needed for the further development of the fast-evolving AI in Texas, according to the White House. The initial investment is expected to be $100 billion and could reach five times that sum. While Trump has seized on similar announcements to show that his presidency is boosting the economy, there were already expectations of a massive buildout of data centers and electricity plants needed for the development of AI.
