WiFi TV

WiFi TV is basically the concept of broadcasting television via a live stream over a WiFi connection. A WiFi connection is simply an internet connection transmitted through a wireless local area network (WLAN). Ideally, with these services, the television viewer will be able to access his or her favorite television broadcast anywhere a WiFi connection exists. These connections are becoming more common place. The WiFi user can often find free or minimal cost internet services at coffee shops, hotels, airports, fast food chains, and at home. Although the concept for WiFi TV is for the viewer to remain mobile while watching on a laptop or PDA, the television services should work with cable modems, DSL and other wired internet connections, aside from dial-up.

Many WiFi TV services are strictly web based and do not need additional equipment to receive the service aside from flash and a media player, such as Windows Media Player, Real Player or Quicktime. Alternatively, the software can be used in conjunction with web browsers, such as Internet Explorer or Firefox.

Another benefit of technology: Internet-based temp car insurance monthly car insurance and short term car insurance

Online WiFi TV services, such as Joost, Hulu, and Veoh, allow the user to watch his or her favorite TV programming online. Most of these services are free or minimal cost. Recently, Joost launched an iPhone mobile application that will allow the iPhone user to watch CBS, Comedy Central, Warner Bros., and Sony at no charge over a WiFi connection.

Other Wifi TV services require special equipment in order to access the channels available. Sony, Casio, and Sharp have created a location-free 12.1 inch portable television that allows the consumer to access and watch TV via WiFi transmission from a base station within the home. Once the television is fully charged, the consumer can receive approximately 3 hours of viewing time. Most operate well up to 50 feet from the base station. Prices for these monitors begin at $1000.

Cisco’s FlipShare 5.0 software and accompanying WiFi device delivers flip videos on your personal computer’s hard drive directly to your television. This device is not designed to support the viewer's broadcasted TV channels per se; however, the software allows the user to archive and share the videos similar to the Flickr interface. This allows the user to share personal videos with their friends or collegues effortlessly. The device can also plug into the USB port of the PC and allow the user to load their videos into Facebook, YouTube, and MySpace. There are even mobile applications for the iPhone, Blackberry, and Android. The price for the device starts at $150.

Copyright Mark Bright 2009