Updated: Open HDTV PVR coming to market, probably illegal

By at 4:04 am Tuesday, Dec 2

The inventor of the ReplayTV has created an open high-definition PVR/entertainment hub that is Linux-based and invites itw owners to hack the hell out of it. This is not only a nice piece of technology, it's also probably illegal, given the tamper-resistance requirement in last month's Broadcast Flag order from the FCC. Thanks, Hollywood. You've successfully outlawed the next generation of VCRs. Turns out that this box is a media player, not a PVR, and probably won't be touched by the Broadcast Flag.
High-definition TV content remains scarce, according to Roku, and the HD1000 is intended to help fill that gap, letting HDTV owners actually use their machines rather than just having them hanging there, on the wall, with nothing to do. "The Roku HD1000 gives HDTV owners the ability to create a high-definition showcase for art, music, and photos that is individual and unique," says Woodward.

The Roku HD1000 range of media capabilities comprises digital photos, art, music, and "dynamic media applications." Content is displayed through memory card slots for CompactFlash, MMC, SD, Memory Stick, and SmartMedia. Or, the Roku HD1000 can connect via Ethernet or Wi-Fi to a home network.

Link (via /.)

Cory Doctorow

Upcoming appearances

* Feb 9, 2012, DeKalb, IL: Day of Doctorow, NIU
* Feb 10-12, 2012, Chicago, IL: Capricon 32
* Feb 13, 2012, Arlington, TX: UT Arlington College of Engineering Distinguished Speaker Series
* Feb 16, 2012, Victoria, BC: 13th Annual Privacy and Security Conference

Recent books:
* Context (essays)
* With a Little Help (short stories)
* For the Win (YA novel)
* Makers (adult novel)

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