New Linux-based PVR from Sony: Cocoon

jivany writes "Linux based set-top box being offered by Sony that has a broadband internet connection and may offer the option of being programmed from a cell phone." Japan-only for now. There's an article in Japanese with assorted photos and screenshots.

Re:Won't be in the US

[numatrix]

That's true, linux cannot be the only selling factor for a device and expect it to do well.

Then again, it can be an added bonus if the other features are done well, the Sharp Zaurus [zaurus.com] being a great example. I don't own one just because it runs linux (there are a number of other linux-driven pda's), but the fact that it has a CF slot, MMC/SD slot, and a built in keyboard, all for around $350, ~and~ it's running linux all combine to make one great product.

Sony's Interesting Bind

[Agent Zero]

Sony, of course, are in the interesting position of potentially making a profit from "copyright" sales and from devices that enable users to do things that rights holders don't like.

Last year they made profits on music film and games and losses on technology.

However the market size for the latter is at least an Order of Magnitude bigger. Sony can't be unaware that DRM technologies are likely to stifle the growth of these devices (and could lead to lower revenues on sales of film and music in the bargain).

How they try to resolve the problem, economically and organisationally, is going to be interesting to watch.

DVR prison

[joesknnr]

I can't wait to see the fine print on this and other future Sony PVRs.

"Sony retains the right to update firmware automaticaly, replace it with Windows without disclosure if it so pleases, track your information for Sony's marketing departments, and limit number of downloads that are not paid purchases of Sony digital media. If Sony wishes to change this agreement in any way, you are to praise them for protecting you from the true axis of evil: yourself."

I fail to see the benefit in buying PCs from media moguls.