Join us for streaming video!

We’re becoming spoiled by all this instant in our lives.  Instant streaming video, instant messaging (via email, texting, social networks, etc.), On Demand.  It’s really an exciting and convenient aspect of progressing technology.  And some people are getting left behind.

I’m currently attempting to convince my mom (hi mom!) to get a Roku HD Streaming Player.  It’s one of many options for streaming video directly to your tv and the cost has come down immensely.  For $69.99 (less if you bought the Amazon GC deal below), the “basic” Roku box is yours.  There’s other models with more bells and whistles, but really for my mom who has a smaller HD tv with 720p, no real interest in an advanced remote, and probably wouldn’t want to bother with a usb port it’s perfect!  It even wirelessly connects to the internet.

Many people probably own multiple sources for streaming video (we have a HD Tivo and a PS3) but this little player is great for anyone wanting to keep up without them getting swept up in all the gadgetry.

Other examples of streaming gadgets for your tv enjoyment:

• PlayStation 3
• Wii
• Xbox 360
• Apple TV
• Logitech Revue
• TiVo Premiere
• Various blu-ray players
• Various HDTVs
• Various home theater systems

Why might you want any of these electronics?  If you have a Netflix account, chances are you have access to streaming and aren’t using that access to your advantage.  They have some great stuff in their streaming library (I just caught up on Bones) and new reports say they’re gearing up to offer less physical product and more online product.

What else?  Amazon VOD (Video On Demand) is usually cheaper than all the cable and satellite companies’ On Demand movies and they regularly run deals.  There’s Hulu, Pandora (music), YouTube…basically anything you want to watch is pretty much available.

And the best part?  Many people can start giving up their cable and satellite bills!  YAY!

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