All set to take on Apple TV and Roku media players

Sep 19, 2011 08:37 GMT  ·  By

Showcased for the very first time at IFA 2011, Sony's SMP-N200 3D-enabled streaming media player will arrive in the US the next month with a low $99 price tag, which will definitely make it a worthy competitor for the Roku and Apple TV units already available.

We had a chance to go hands-on with the device at the IFA 2011 fair and we were fairly impressed with the new user interface and the features of the product.

The media player was built to be compatible with a wide series of 3D and regular HDTV, so it includes all the standard connection options such as composite, component, HDMI and WiFi. An USB port is also available on the side of the player.

These are also paired with a DLNA capability, which allows the SMP-N200 to connect and control a network of devices, like tablets, PCs, and smartphoens, enabling users to share the music and videos stored on these gadgets.

"The Streaming Player is ideal for consumers who want to upgrade to a connected television, but are happy with the TV they currently have," said Charles Speidel, vice president of Sony's Home Audio and Video Group.

"Whether using it in the family room or on a secondary television in the house this new set-top-box offers access to the full complement of streaming content available from Sony, without committing to the cost of a new Bravia," concluded the company's rep.

The SMP-N200 comes bundled together with a remote control, but Sony will also ship a Media Remote app for OS and Android devices.

As mentioned earlier, the SMP-N200 will begin to hit stores across the US in October for around $99.99. At this point in time, Sony hasn't mentioned the streaming services its creation will support.