TiVo introduced a trimmed-down, less expensive version of its digital
video recorder for high-definition televisions on Tuesday, hoping to
spur mainstream demand 10 months after a pricey first foray was
received coolly.
The company said its TiVo HD model, capable of recording up to 20
hours of high-resolution TV signals, would sell for about $300,
starting in August.
That contrasts with the nearly $800 price tag of its TiVo Series3 HD
Digital Media Recorder, which holds about 30 hours of HD programming
and has more high-end audio and video features.
Still, both models are expensive for a cable set-top box, a device
that many consumers receive for a negligible monthly fee from their
cable or satellite TV provider.
TiVo is aiming to differentiate itself from digital recorder services
offered by cable operators, even as it seeks to land more cable
distribution deals. Monthly fees for TiVo's service are generally
higher than its rivals, but it offers many unique Web-related and
home networking features, such as being able to control TiVo from a
mobile phone.
Jim Denny, vice president of product marketing for TiVo said he was
unsure if TiVo was building new Series3 boxes, but believes existing
inventory should keep the device available through the start of 2008.