TiVo Stream 4K challenges Apple TV 4K with long-awaited release, but no Apple TV app support

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Is the TiVo Stream 4K a worthy Apple TV opponent? Probably, but no Apple TV+ support hurts.
Photo: TiVo

After months of anticipation and weeks of social media teasing, the TiVo Stream 4K was released Wednesday, a streaming box that brings together on-demand and live streaming services into one device without having to switch from app to app to find and watch shows.

At an introductory price of $49.99 with no monthly subscription for TV scheduling data, the TiVo Stream 4K will take on the Apple TV 4K with a starting price of $179 and the top-selling Roku streaming device.

The disappointing news for Apple TV app users and Apple TV+ subscribers is that TiVo’s newest product currently will not support the app or integration of Apple’s programming as Apple does not have an Android app.

First announced in January at CES, the Stream features live television from Sling TV, in addition to direct access to 4K programming from the likes of Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Go, HBO Now, YouTube, Disney+, and more, all requiring separate subscriptions.

The TiVo Stream interface returns results on screen based on voice commands.
Photo: TiVo

A different approach to watching streaming TV

What makes the TiVo Stream 4K different is instead of having to move back and forth between apps to find and watch programming – like is the case on the two-and-half-year old Apple TV 4K – viewers can subscribe to a service, link their accounts to the device, find programming either by browsing or searching and then watch shows without having to move from app to app.

The Stream is an Android TV-powered dongle that connects to your TV via an HDMI cable, just like an Apple TV device. It also supports Dolby Atmos audio and Dolby Vision HDR video.

Compared to the Apple TV remote with its minimalist design, the TiVo clicker has many more buttons including a Guide key to more easily access content. The Stream also includes a proprietary TiVo Stream app designed to find content from various streaming apps and combine it into a single place using TiVo’s search and metadata technology. A button on the remote lets you use the built-in Google Assistant for voice search. The device also learns what you want to watch and makes suggestions.

Users will also see free channels offered through TiVo Plus, a proprietary network of content from the likes of TMZ, Cheddar, Outside TV, PowerNation, FailArmy, Hell’s Kitchen, and Pluto TV.

The Stream will regularly sell for $69.99 after the discount offer expires and currently includes a free 7-day trial of Sling TV for new subscribers.

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