CES: LG unveils wireless Blu-ray player
BD590 model holds 250GB harddrive to store Web content
By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 1/6/2010
JAN. 6 | LG Electronics has unveiled a wireless Blu-ray Disc set-top player that holds an unusually large 250GB harddrive, capitalizing on the growing options for consumers to download content through Web connections.
Expected to launch this year, the BD590 integrates online movie download service Vudu, as well as allows for storage of photos, music and other media.
People also will be able to copy and archive their CDs onto the player’s drive using the new feature ‘MusicID.’ Powered by Sony-owned Gracenote technology, ‘MusicID’ will allow people to hear an entire song playing within a movie or TV show using the BD590’s remote control.
The player also offers Web access to LG’s suite of online partners, including Netflix, CinemaNow, YouTube and Pandora. New LG online partners for its 2010 Blu-ray line are the Picasa photo service and AccuWeather forecasts.
“LG is committed to offering consumers easier access to more content on demand, which is reflected in our 2010 line of Blu-ray products with new content partners, advanced technology and unique design,” said Peter Reiner, senior VP of marketing at LG Electronics USA.
At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week, LG also will tout its rollout of its first 3D-ready LED TVs, the LE9500 series in 55-inch and 47-inch models. The TVs, and most of LG’s new TV displays, also include newly integrated partner Skype. With the addition of a separate camera and other equipment, people will be able to make free video and voice calls over the Web via participating TVs.
