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What’s better during a long ride in a plane, train or automobile than taking in some video? As technology continues to evolve, portable video devices are getting smaller, smarter, faster, more versatile and sometimes, even cheaper. And they’re not limited to DVDs anymore; today’s generation of video machines—including some impressive new Portable Media Players (PMPs) can access online content, presenting near-infinite content possibilities.
Here are our picks for portable video offerings to consider this season.
Archos 5 Internet Media Tablet
Archos’ new Archos 5 Media Tablet is distinguished by its large-for-this-type-of-thing 4.8-inch touchscreen display. It supports Web browsing and is compatible with H.264, DVD and MPEG-2 content (through the purchase of optional plug-ins. A plug-in for HD compatibility is due out soon). It offers downloadable content through the Archos media club, has built-in WiFi, and, through enabling of Windows Media Player’s sharing tools, allows you to stream content from your home computer.
www.archos.com
Panasonic DMP-B15 Portable Blu-ray Player
A $799.95 (MSRP) price tag may seem steep for a portable DVD player, but this isn’t just any machine – according to Panasonic, the new DMP-B15 is "the world’s first portable Blu-ray Disc player." In addition to its 8.9-inch WSVGA LCD screen and PHL Reference Chroma Processor Plus ensuring first-class viewing in any location, this impressive machine comes with Panasonic’s VIERA CAST Internet connection, enabling you to access online programming, such as YouTube videos, remotely.
www.panasonic.com
Spinn 8GB
IRiver’s Spinn adds cool features like Bluetooth 2.0 capability to the customary video-driven PMP menu of features. Its 3.3-inch AMOLED screen offers Limpid video reproduction of 30 fps video programming, as well as pictures and CD art. With its Bluetooth feature, you can use Bluetooth-enabled headphones to talk while you move freely.
www.iriverinc.com
Zune HD
The next generation of Microsoft’s line of iPod competitors is set to be unveiled soon, and it’s a whopper of an upgrade. In addition to offering HD Radio reception, Wi-Fi connectivity, and 16 to 32GB of Flash memory for media storage, the Zune HD will enable you to watch 720p HD video at 480 x 272 resolution on its 3.3-inch screen.
www.zune.net
Philips GoGear Opus
Philips’ new PMP offering, the GoGear Opus, offers a lot of media power in a small package. The GoGear Opus supports WMV and AVI video content, along with MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC and Audible audio formats. It comes with your choice of 8GB or 16GB capacity and has a 4:3, 2.8-inch screen.
www.consumer.philips.com
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