According to sources, Intel's virtual cable TV service with set-top box will launch soon on a city-by-city basis, allowing it to bypass many of the licensing hurdles that have delayed its launch to date.
Content providers have been reluctant to negotiate licensing on a national basis, so Intel will be able to launch slowly but with no issues if they do so in cities were the rights have already been negotiated.
After 2011's failed launch of Google TV, which was supposed to be Intel's chance to get their processors into more living rooms, the company has decided to try it on their own. "Intel was tired of everyone doing a half-assed Google TV so it's going to do it themselves and do it right," says the source.
Intel's plan is for a set-top box and subscription streaming TV service. The service would include traditional channels but also include streaming service like Redbox's new movie and TV show catalog.
So far, however, content providers have been unwilling to unbundle channels, as they have been unwilling with other companies, as well, including (allegedly) Apple.
After 2011's failed launch of Google TV, which was supposed to be Intel's chance to get their processors into more living rooms, the company has decided to try it on their own. "Intel was tired of everyone doing a half-assed Google TV so it's going to do it themselves and do it right," says the source.
Intel's plan is for a set-top box and subscription streaming TV service. The service would include traditional channels but also include streaming service like Redbox's new movie and TV show catalog.
So far, however, content providers have been unwilling to unbundle channels, as they have been unwilling with other companies, as well, including (allegedly) Apple.
