Amazon’s next big thing could be a TiVo knockoff

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Amazon Fire TV Stick
Amazon wants Fire TV to be embedded in more TVs.
Photo: Amazon

The biggest name in online retail is aiming its sights on putting TiVo out of business next.

Amazon is reportedly developing a new set top box that will allow users to record live TV, providing a way to side-step cable providers when it comes to watching content on-demand.

Inside Amazon’s labs the project goes by the name of Frank. According to Bloomberg’s report, Frank will be a mix of old school DVRs with access to newer streaming tech.

The new box will pack physical storage to record shows on. Users will then be able to stream recorded shows to their smartphones. You’ll also be able to connect it to FireTv boxes.

Boxes made by TiVo and Dish Network offer similar functionality, but Amazon’s huge presence combined with Alexa smart speakers could make Frank DVR a huge success if it launches. Amazon can also attract customers with its original TV shows and Prime TV streaming service.

Details on when Amazon plans to debut the new box haven’t been revealed. The report also claims that the company will come out with new software for its Fire TV stick and is trying to get more TV makers to build Fire TV into their screens.

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