VideoWorldInsider Week in Review

Happy New Year! That's right, it's the first week of the new year, and already the streaming video sector is positively crackling with news. A lot happened this week in the run-up to the big CES (News - Alert) show out in Las Vegas, and we were right there in the thick of it. So settle in and let's run down some of the biggest events to happen in a news-laden week with our Week in Review coverage!

First, we had a look at how to improve the BlackBerry (News - Alert) line of smartphones. Research in Motion (RIM) has not been having the best run of things lately, so with BlackBerry 10 looking to make its debut at the end of the month, there were some great possibilities afoot. A set of slides were leaked that showed some of those impressive possibilities, including video chat and a new Web browser. There's even some word about Netflix showing up on the device, proving that RIM doesn't plan to go quietly into the night.

With CES about to kick off, there's a fight brewing over the future of television as several major companies are coming together to wage the war of a lifetime: the war for the living room. Firms like Google, Apple, and possibly even Intel (News - Alert) set to bring out new advancements for the home theater market. Offerings range from revamped Google TV systems to completely new products from other makers, including entries from television makers themselves.

Speaking of Intel's plans to bring out a new line of television, we had further details on the subject. Intel's plans to be a television provider include the possibility that Intel's cable system may offer channels on an a la carte basis. That's a development long wished for by cable subscribers unhappy with the current setup. Reports suggest that Intel will be showing off at least a new set top box at CES.

The Apple (News - Alert) set top box brought the next bit of news, as QuikIO brought its application to the popular platform for media streaming. QuikIO allows for improvements in AirPlay (News - Alert) on the Mountain Lion OS, allowing AirPlay to work without screen mirroring so that a variety of devices in both iOS and PC can receive the media in question, as well as many commercially-available televisions. This move is being regarded as a multi-billion dollar opportunity for Apple, a particular help if the market gets crowded.

Finally, we took a look at Nintendo TVii, a system that converts the Wii U into much more than just a game machine, namely, a full-on interactive remote that is set to change the way users view television for some time to come. Nintendo's link with i.TV allows for not only control over channels, but also a social media aspect to the concept, providing an easy way to connect with other viewers. The system also includes a social media device called TV Tag, specifically geared toward sports buffs.

That was the week that was in streaming video. The Consumer Electronics Show coming up is putting a lot of pressure on the industry, and the makings of a major sea change in content provision is likely to shake things up still further. Not even throwing a holiday into the mix could slow this sector down, and our global online community was right in the thick of it. So be sure to join us back here next week for more, and of course, every weekend for our Week in Review!