It’s the stuff of old science fiction stories – a TV set that can tune in channels from anywhere in the world.
It all starts with the website wherever.tv. This site allows you to watch streamed TV channels from almost 100 different countries in 40 different languages. It works with Internet Explorer 6 and later, and FireFox 3.0 with the Windows media plug-in.
The Wherever TV receiver is an Internet appliance that connects to any TV set and to your router and lets you watch most of the channels on the web site. It’s small (about 5” x 5”) and thus could be a good choice for road warriors. Another good scenario for the device would be for immigrant parents or grandparents who want to watch TV from “the old country” without the hassles of managing and maintaining a computer. The device can also display YouTube videos.
Unfortunately, the Wherever TV receiver does not yet support wireless Internet connection – a real limitation unless your router happens to be near the TV or your house is wired for Internet (or you’re willing to string a very long cable).
Update: You can use an Ethernet bridge to allow this device to connect to your network. The Linksys Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter will allow it to connect to your existing wireless network and is not limited to just games. Or you can use a device like the Netgear XE102 Wall-Plugged Ethernet Bridge to extend your wired network via your power lines.