Audio Video News

Do consumers need another selection in the set-top box download category? ZillionTV is gambling that the answer is yes for those who are looking to save a buck in this dodgy economy.

The box will cost less than $100. It will be bundled with broadband internet accounts--ZillionTV sees ISPs as the route into the consumer's home. You'll need a connection of at least 2.7 Mbps. Only standard-definition service will be provided at the beginning though high-def is "expected to launch soon."

Some of the content will be free and the box will be more affordable than those of competitors. There is no monthly subscription fee. ZillionTV will provide a combination of free-with-ads, pay-per-view, and pay-to-own programming. The free-with-ads programming will allow advertisers to target viewers. Users can also select product categories for ads but the box will not allow them to skip ads.

What The New York Times calls "a nifty pointer remote" will come with the set-top box. You can use the motion-sensing remote to point-and-shop, with a rewards program via Visa--the credit card giant is a ZillionTV investor, along with Disney, Fox, NBC Universal, Sony, and Warner.

ZillionTV will be available this fall.