Smart TVs have been gaining ground, off late. Smart TV transforms the ‘idiot box’ to surf the web, download apps, update social networks and even stream movies. However, if you’re like me who jumped on the LCD bandwagon almost half a decade back and want to convert your conventional LCD to an internet-equipped device, here’s a nifty gadget to do it.
Although DX.com pitches it as an HD Media Player, the device is perfectly potent to make your television set a Smart TV. The one I got was equipped with Android 2.2 OS but Deal Extreme also sells players running on Android 2.3 OS.
The HD Android Media Player sports a very simple design. Clad in all-white hue, the front features a power button whereas the back houses two USB ports, HDMI and Composite ports to attach to TV, power-in slot, Ethernet, Optical audio and YPbPr slot.
Making the Android device work with the TV is really easy. You can use the included AV cable or use an HDMI cable to display the content on TV. HDMI is the preferred route here since it will allow you to output HD content, in case you play content from an SD card or USB flash drive/HDD.
The media player does not sport any special user interface but the stock UI of Android. However, it does come with some pre-loaded apps, games and a special remote control with media-centric buttons (after all, it’s a media player they’re selling!).
As for the performance, I would say, it’s decent for the asking price. The best part is that you get access to Google’s Play Store that allows installing various apps to spruce up the player. I could stream videos off YouTube without any issues. There’s the default Android stock browser to surf the internet or you can install Opera or any other browser as per your need. Moving onto its HD media playing prowess, the player handles 1080p HD videos with ease. Users can play almost any format off the USB HDD, SD card or USB flash drive.
Another added advantage is the support for keyboard and mouse. You can attach a conventional USB keyboard or mouse or use a Bluetooth peripheral, provided it uses a USB dongle to communicate. In short, you can use your TV as a fully functional Android PC in full HD resolution.
The above pictured media player goes for around $70 but there are many alternatives to choose from that vary in specs and price.
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