Brace yourselves for a little box that is a media player-cum-entertainment center-cum-internet device
Running Android (albeit only Gingerbread 2.3 right now withan upgrade to JellyBean coming soon, we’re told), this device can do everythingyour Android tablet or phone can. At some point, perhaps even make calls andhandle SMS-ing. So what you do have when you power up and log in is an AndroidOS which allows you to access the Play Store, browse the internet using thebuilt-in browser, access various apps that come pre-loaded with the device andall this on your HDTV (1080p included).
Entertainment
The device includes a separate “Media” tab that lets you getto your entertainment (music, movies, photos) on an external device. Justconnect using the USB port and you’re golden! During our tests, there were noproblems in playing back most standard formats including MP4, AVI, and even MKVfi les did pretty well.
Gaming and Apps
Given that it’s running Android, you can download any gamesfrom the Play Store and run them off the device. You will be served better by downloadingthe HD games since the screen size you will use is at least 5-6 times biggerthan the average phone screen.
AppCasts
Curated content is what you get under AppCasts. The libraryof content available at present is pretty varied, if not comprehensive and itdoes ensure that there’s something for most age groups to enjoy. From YRF trailersand music to Khan Academy learning modules to even News and photos, you’ll havea lot to spend time on.
The Nuts & Bolts
Despite the device being a family device, there is a needfor privacy since you would probably install apps and games. Creating this is asnap. Enter the basic info and you can skip the optional parts to get going.About 5 minutes should be enough to be up and running. Once in, you can connectto Facebook, Twitter and access other sites and networks through the browser.
The Remote
No self-respecting media center is complete without a goodremote. In the recent past, we’ve seen the WD Elements, WD Play Live, iOmegaScreenplay Director HD among others. None of these dedicated media players hada remote that deserved any mention. Most, in fact, looked like toys. SmartPodcomes with a dual-use remote. It’s a keyboard and it’s a remote. And it’s both…you know… point it straight and you have all the familiar remote keys andfunctions. Hold it sideways and there’s a QWERTY keyboard that is easily usablewith two hands. That was simple! Wonder why others don’t do it…
Verdict
At Rs 9,990, the SmartPod is available in India (online andstores) and is a worthy investment if you are serious about an entertainmentcenter. Things to watch out for are the lack of internal storage, Android 2.3OS (they do say that JellyBean OTA will happen) and only one usable USB port upfront. If you can see past all the above, this is a truly worthy investmenttowards your commitment to becoming the best couch potato of 2013!
