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Second Generation Chromecast and Chromecast Audio Review
Barb Gonzalez  |  Dec 03, 2015  |  2 comments
The newest Chromecast model has hardware and software improvements. Do you need to upgrade to the second-generation Chromecast or to the Chromecast Audio?
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Apple TV 2015 Review
Barb Gonzalez  |  Nov 18, 2015  |  2 comments
The fourth generation Apple TV finally brings true apps to your TV but doesn't offer 4K. Still, new features may make it your top choice among the new media streamers.
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Streaming Device ReviewsSmartStream
Roku 4 Streaming Media Player Review
Barb Gonzalez  |  Nov 04, 2015  |  2 comments

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value
PRICE $130

AT A GLANCE
Plus
4K streaming to UHDTV
Agnostic search finds titles in multiple services
Notifications when specific movies become available

Minus
Remote mic is inaccurate
Search can’t find specific episodes of specific seasons

THE VERDICT
If you own a 4K TV, this is a slam-dunk. If not, the advances in hardware are still enough to step up from a Roku 2.

One must wonder if Roku waited to release its fourth-generation media streamer until the aptly named Roku 4 was capable of streaming 4K content. The newest Roku box can connect to compatible UHDTVs to stream 4K movies, TV shows, and videos from Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, M-Go, and a growing number of 4K streaming sources. And though 4K streaming is the Roku 4’s main appeal, improvements in hardware and the software interface make it the best Roku box yet.

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Review: Amazon Fire TV 2015 Edition
Barb Gonzalez  |  Oct 21, 2015  |  1 comments
The new Amazon Fire TV streams beautiful 4K video but it doesn't yet have all the features listed in its product description.
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New Upgrades to Chromecast, Roku 4, Hulu, YouTube, and Amazon Prime
Barb Gonzalez  |  Oct 08, 2015  |  1 comments
This fall brings lot of streaming news with the release of new Chromecast and Roku models as well as new features to Hulu, YouTube and Amazon Prime. It may be time to upgrade.
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New Amazon Fire TV Lineup Has 4K, Gaming, More
Barb Gonzalez  |  Sep 23, 2015  |  3 comments
The next generation of Fire TVs is coming in October along with updates on the existing models. Amazon is upping the ante with great new features and capabilities.
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New Apple TV Will Have Siri and Apps
Barb Gonzalez  |  Sep 09, 2015  |  1 comments
A new Apple TV arrives in October and it's (finally) been upgraded significantly.
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NVIDIA Shield Review - 4K Streaming for Android TV
Barb Gonzalez  |  Aug 19, 2015  |  0 comments
The NVIDIA Shield follows the Nexus Player as one of the first stand alone media players with Android TV. A sleek, angled device, the Shield’s focus may be on gaming but it performs as one of the best streaming devices available. Still, it is limited by Android TV’s app selection and interface.
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Chicago to Tax Streaming Movies and Music
Barb Gonzalez  |  Aug 06, 2015  |  1 comments
Chicago to extend Amusement tax to streaming services from Apple Music to Netflix.
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Comcast Starts Beta Testing “Stream” Online TV Service
Barb Gonzalez  |  Jul 22, 2015  |  0 comments
Comcast has started beta testing the new Stream online TV service to its Internet customers. But is it enough to entice a new generation of TV viewers?
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Showtime Launches Stand-Alone Streaming Service
Barb Gonzalez  |  Jul 08, 2015  |  0 comments
Showtime's new app for Roku and Apple TV streams shows and movies without a cable subscription and Hulu is offering a Showtime add-on.
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Android TV to Get More Apps, 4K But Can It Keep Up With Roku?
Barb Gonzalez  |  Jun 17, 2015  |  First Published: Jun 04, 2015  |  0 comments
Announcements of new apps and the release of two new Android TV stand-alone boxes fuel hopes that more people will be enticed to try an Android TV.
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Apple Music Is Coming but Is it All it's Cracked Up to Be?
Barb Gonzalez  |  Jun 10, 2015  |  4 comments
Apple will finally offer a monthly subscription streaming service and despite the claims, it's not all revolutionary.
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Spotify Expands Services to Include Video, More
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 21, 2015  |  0 comments
Spotify adds video, original content, and an advanced running feature that ties music to a runner's pace.
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YouTube Music Key Brings Music Videos to Google Play Music
Barb Gonzalez  |  May 06, 2015  |  1 comments
Google's new YouTube Music Key beta adds music videos to Google Play Music. Here's how it works.
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