The ultra high resolution 4K video format has taken another significant step towards mainstream domination with the launch of a new 4K-capable set-top box that costs just $69.
The Mi Box from Chinese company Xiaomi is already available from mi.com, and will also go on sale in Walmart stores in the next few days.
Its 4K (also known as Ultra High Definition) support includes the ability to play such sources at 60 frames a second, as well as Microsoft’s PlayReady 3.0 hardware-based DRM technology to ensure you can enjoy a wider range of 4K content.
The Mi Box's operating system is provided by Android. Using the Android TV system puts hundreds of gaming, utility and video streaming apps at the Mi Box’s disposal, as well as providing compatibility with Google’s Chromecast and voice search tools.
Other services available through the Mi Box include subscription platforms such as Sling TV, the Pandora music platform, Vudu and Netflix - with Xiaomi assuring me that the Netflix service will support 4K streaming.
The Mi Box’s picture attractions don’t end with 4K resolution and Android TV, either. It will also support the HDR10 high dynamic range standard - which introduces more color and contrast - once the new Android N system roll out reaches Xiaomi’s device.
The Mi Box comes packing a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU and Mali 450 GPU, plus 2GB DDR3 RAM and 8GB of eMMC flash memory. It carries a USB port so that you can add more app storage if you need it, while its cutting-edge video output capabilities are backed up by support for both the Dolby Digital Plus and DTS surround sound formats.
Xiaomi has been seen as a potentially significant disruptor in the tech world since it launched in 2010, and the Mi Box represents the company’s most aggressive attempt yet to deliver on that disruptive potential in the US. As Hugo Barra, Vice President of Xiaomi Global puts it:
“This is a significant milestone for Xiaomi, as it is our first opportunity to demonstrate to consumers here in America the power of what makes Xiaomi extraordinary: our promise of innovation for everyone. We believe everyone is entitled to benefit from technological breakthroughs, and Mi Box is a reflection of that belief: an incredible entertainment experience at an unprecedented price of $69, less than the cost of a single night out for two.”
