Amazon enters the streaming box game.
Amazon has been making a steady play to be the streaming service of choice in cable-free households for a while now, but today they stepped up their game with some hardware. The company officially unveiled their entry to the box-top streaming device market, staking their claim alongside well-known devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast. Here's everything you need to know about Amazon Fire TV so you can decide if it's right for your family.
—Amazon's device hopes to trounce the competition when it comes to search and operating speed... no more lag time when you select a title.
—It's extremely thin and inconspicuous.
—It runs with many streaming services you already have, including Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant Video (which Roku has, but Google Chromecast and Apple TV do not), Showtime Anytime, and Vevo.
—Not only can you stream music from Pandora, iHeartRadio, TuneIn, and Vevo, the lyrics will automatically appear on the screen for some killer karaoke sessions.
—The small remote, which operates via bluetooth, has voice control.
—Much like the Roku remote, this one is tiny and easy to misplace, but the Fire TV smartphone app allows you to control the box when that inevitably happens (Roku and Chromecast both have this functionality).
—Fire TV has something called "FreeTime," which offers parental controls to limit screentime, restrict certain programming, and change the colors and fonts to more kid-friendly designs. FreeTime Unlimited grants subscribers unlimited access to kid-friendly programming for $2.99/month.
—Mirror what's on your tablet to your TV with the "fling" icon (Chromecast also has this functionality).
—Fire TV has "X-ray," which pulls up additional information (like IMDb pages) on your Kindle Fire HDX and smartphone while you're watching something.
—Amazon also hopes Fire TV will rival gaming consoles that can also stream content (such as XBOX and PS4). Prime offers hundreds of games (with more on the way). You can either game with the app or purchase an additional dedicated game controller for $40.
—Fire TV doesn't allow you to stream content from HBO Go or iTunes.
—At $99 for the device and remote, it's one of the pricier set-top boxes. You'll also need an HDMI cord to connect it to your TV.
—The box also requires an external power source, meaning you'll need an outlet or surge protector nearby. Spoiler alert: "Cutting the cable cord" actually involves a lot of literal cords.
You can purchase Fire TV now on Amazon.
Looking to cut the cord? Check out our comprehensive guide to all your options.