VUDU continues to creep into various areas of consumer electronics. Today, we got word that the movie service has started steaming to Sony's 2011 line of connected Blu-ray players.
VUDU offers subscription-free movies, with many available in high definition or VUDU's own HDX high-def format. Another perk is Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, as well as a selection of 3D content, which requires both a 3D TV and compatible 3D glasses.
"From the newest Hollywood blockbusters to our extensive library of classics, VUDU continues to give people more options to discover and enjoy the highest quality movie experience in their living room," said Edward Lichty, general ,anager of VUDU. "By adding Sony Blu-ray Disc Players to our roster of top tier connected devices we provide yet another avenue to for anybody to enjoy a great movie, with a simple click of a button."
VUDU will be available on the upcoming BDP-S780 Blu-ray 3D player, as well as in the BDV-E280 Blu-ray 3D home theater system. The BDP-S780 (MSRP $250) features built-in Wi-Fi wireless with Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) and an Ethernet jack, for easy access to BRAVIA Internet Video and the embedded Skype calling features. The BDV-E280 ($400) is a 1000-watt 5.1 channel home theater system, which can add Wi-Fi via an optional adapter. It does have an Ethernet jack, as well as BRAVIA Internet Video access and an iPhone/iPod touch dock. The products aren't available for pre-order just yet, but both are expected to ship in April.
If you don't want to wait, four of the VUDU-enabled 2011 players are available now. Aside from Blu-ray playback, each one features DVD upscaling, a USB input, and additional streaming content via Netflix, YouTube, Hulu Plus, Pandora and more. The BDP-S480 and BDP-S580 add in Blu-ray 3D playback, support for HomeShare speakers and multi-room PartyStreaming. The BDP-S580 also has built-in Wi-Fi.
If you want an audio upgrade to go with your new video device, Sony is also streaming VUDU to two new Blu-ray home theater setups. The 5.1-channel BDV-E580 boasts 1000 watts of power, BRAVIA Internet Video steaming, built-in Wi-Fi, and an iPod/iPhone dock. The BDV-E780W is a 850-watt 5.1 system that adds in Blu-ray 3D playback. It's also Wi-Fi ready (via an add-on adapter) and includes a front USB slot.
