Chromecast To Gain Redbox Instant And Vimeo, Others To Follow
Google Chromecast was a nice surprise that Google rolled out earlier this month, making a solid attempt to find its way into the streaming entertainment industry (again) with a $35 dongle and simple setup. Though cheap, the device has run into criticism over its lack of content, which is presently limited to Netflix, YouTube, and Google Play. That will be changing soon, however, as Redbox Instant and Vimeo gear up to add support for the device, and others consider following.
Vimeo is a video-sharing website akin to YouTube, but perhaps of a higher-caliber, offering quite a bit of artistic videos, short documentaries, and similar content. According to the folks over at Gigaom, the video company confirmed that it will support Chromecast, eventually finding its way onto the device. Said the company's vice president, "We're excited about the emerging opportunities bridging mobile to Connected TV and we look forward to offering Chromecast support in our products."
Then there's Redbox Instant, which is similar to Netflix, allowing users to rent DVDs from their familiar red kiosk boxes found in convenience stores and other locations, as well as watch certain content via online streaming. Redbox likewise gave confirmation to Gigaom that it will be bringing its service to Chromecast. Neither it nor Vimeo's availability on the Google device has a set date, however.
In addition, it also looks like some other services will be available in due time, among them being the maker of media centers, Plex, which tweeted: "Wow, lots of interest in Chromecast and Plex. Yes, we've ordered a few of them :-)" A spokesperson for the company is also quoted as saying that it is both optimistic about and looking into the device.
All of this follows hints that surfaced last week that HBO Go support could be coming to the device, which would be available to those with an HBO account. While content options on the Chromecast are still slim at the moment, those who have already got their hands on the device – as well as those who are waiting for their orders to ship – will have more robust entertainment options in the coming months.
SOURCE: Gigaom