The Future of TV

In reading Lawrence Lessig's argument of a RW (Reading/Writing) culture, I am pleased with his forecast of the future of television content, when "[waiting] till “prime time” to watch prime television will seem just fascist" (44). While equipments such as DVR and Tivo have helped viewers to facilitate a workable TV schedule, as the nation paving to immense 3G and 4G network infrastructure, "portable" will also become a important feature that TV viewers want to get.

I have been following the innovative business products/models of a new generation of TV, and here are the top 4 products/models that I am monitoring and expect popularity :

1. Hulu Plus

I am always a fan of Hulu.com, not only because of the popular shows it provides, but all of them in HD. I always reluctant to use YouTube because it doesnt have HD available for most clips.
Hulu Plus is available on connected TVs and Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, set-top boxes, mobile phone, iPad, etc. It best captures my expectation for portability of TV content.

After it is introduced, most episodes of a show on Hulu become exclusive for its Plus members only. At $7.99 per month, I would be glad to sign up, but my only concern is how many shows for real I can access. What if Hulu does now expand its library as fast as other providers?

2. Google TV

Google TV also gives a great promise, especially its seamless integration with Internet browsing experience. According to the guide on its official website, Google TV is basically a device that has a TV screen, but functions like a cable TV, a DVR, and an Internet browser. Compatible equipment for Google TV is therefore expensive, with compatible TV at $599+ and seperate boxes at $299+.

Google TV is not a portable device, but it still enriches and mobilizes your TV experience. However I won't spend that much money for a non-portable TV net-browser.

3. Apple TV
Think of Apple TV as a lite version of Google TV. At $99, you will get a small square box that gives you access to a content library with shows, movies and your iTunes library on your TV. It does not permit a smooth Internet browsing feature as Google TV does. And clearly Apple wants to continue capitalizing on its iTunes model --you still need to rent episodes and films despite low prices.

Even with great price advantage, I think Apple TV faces serious competition from Google TV. Except its iTunes library, all other functions you can find them on a game console, so why spend that extra $99 when you have already spend $500 on an iPad..?

4. Amazon Instant Video
Amazon Instant Video is more like an iTunes store for everyone, or a Hulu Plus without monthly subscription fee. You can purchase your favorite episodes and movies at any devices that you are using (when you are connected to the Internet), and watch it instantly. It is certainly more flexible, and portable.

With the enormous data Amazon has accumulated for each user, and now that it can also link to one's viewing behavior, I wonder how Amazon will profit with this invaluable by-product.