The Transition to Internet TV

Internet-based TV is quickly becoming more popular. Platforms like Netflix and Hulu are becoming the forefront in what will be a highly competitive market. Companies like Apple and Google have begun making their own content. Think about it: tech companies making TV shows. Sounds very strange, right? In the coming months and years, keep track of how often you find yourself watching any video-based content on a tablet, phone, or video streaming device. 

Netflix Offline Viewing

The popular streaming service Netflix seems to have plans to add offline viewing by the end of the year according to LightReading. In addition to this, Reed Hastings, the CEO of Netflix, said he would keep an "open mind" for offline viewing. Offline viewing would be a big push for Netflix, effectively eliminating one of the few barriers to watching videos. This would be especially useful to those with smaller data plans.

Android TV: Coming Soon to a TV Near You!

Apparently, Google has plans to sell an "Android TV." While not much is known about it, Android TV would be expected to be a simple competitor to the Apple TV and Roku. Also, this plan wouldn't affect Chromecast. The Verge has obtained a paper about said Android TV.

"Android TV is an entertainment interface, not a computing platform." 

Amazon Fire TV

Today, Amazon announced their competitor to the Apple TV, Roku, and Chromecast. Fire TV! Other than the whole HD movies and TV shows idea, games seem to be the big deal for the Fire TV. Although it needs a separate controller, Fire TV is a gaming console with games like Minecraft (Pocket Edition), Asphalt 8, and The Walking Dead. It even has a competitor feature to Apple TV's AirPlay (even the mirroring). To learn more about Fire TV, check out the official site. Fire TV is available now for $99 from Amazon.