Streaming hardware would seem to be the up and coming fad of the year. Currently, two of the most publicly recognized devices are the Apple TV and Google’s Chromecast, the former of which is expected to have a new iteration out for the Spring season that will feature many new apps, and the latter of which is well-known and loved. But that is not what we are writing about. A leak from Best Buy has revealed, via a planogram, that they expect to be stocking a media streaming device this spring that is made my Amazon. The only information that the planogram gives us is that the device is expected to have built-in Wi-Fi, similar to the Chromecast.
Amazon was originally expected to release this device for the 2013 holiday season, but that obviously did not happen. It would appear that they are now looking to wait until near the end of Q1, since they missed the original planned date. If you are wondering what this device is expected to do, don’t be too concerned. It is expected to have Amazon Prime content streaming directly to your TV, as well as a pay-per-view movie and show service. Music playback, alongside the potential of some Amazon Appstore functionality, leave the door open to the idea that the device will be based loosely on Android. It is expected, to no one’s real surprise, that the device will feature integration with their Kindle Fire’s Second Screen service. This only makes sense, as the majority of the people who will most likely buy the device are those who have a committed brand dedication to Amazon, and most likely own a Kindle Fire anyways. As to what devices the piece of streaming hardware will be compatible with, we can only guess. In my opinion, the most logical choice would be to make it as compatible with as many pieces of hardware out there in order to increase their competitive advantage and to go toe-to-toe with Google. Hopefully, the streaming device, which is expected to be called something along the lines of ‘Firetube’, succeeds greatly. As I always say, perhaps too much in my articles about upcoming technology, competition is the mother of innovation… and more importantly, cheaper costs. Are you looking forward to Amazon’s new box? Let us know down below!