Goodbye Apple TV, Hello EyeTV HD

Even the hardiest of Apple fanboys have to admit that the Apple TV was a flop. Though ambitious, this late in the game so many other providers have lapped what the Apple TV tried to do, and even Apple enthusiasts snubbed the device choosing to work with a Mac mini over the Apple TV. The integration, if executed properly, could have been a real coup in streamlining your TV viewing lifestyle with your mobile tech lifestyle. Unfortunately due to lack of support and further innovation, the Apple TV is nothing more than a glorified digital VCR.

Fast forward to today and products like Elgato’s EyeTV HD ($200) looks to take the stage as the bridge we’ve been looking for to connect both lifestyles. The EyeTV HD records HDTV to your Mac and can stream it to your iPhone, iTouch, or iPad. The USB box comes with component cables and standard RCA connections in the back to connect with an existing cable or satellite box. An accompanying IR remote handles the box controls. With the addition of a $5 app, you can stream live TV straight to your mobile device over 3G or Wi-Fi.

Worried about which format to record in, the EyeTV HD allows for specialized recording in iPhone/iTouch or iPad format giving you the best experience possible, depending on which device you’re using.

Some of the highlights include:

• Captures premium television content in full HD from cable and satellite receivers
• Records in pristine H.264 format for a crystal clear digital picture
• Features a unique dual-format capture mode for fast playback on an iPhone and iPad
• Includes an infrared remote and channel changer cable (IR blaster) for automatic control of the receiver

Seems like a step in the right direction with this type of technology. Even though there are already other apps and devices on the market with streaming capabilities to your mobile device, it’s always nice to see variety in the market. Is this something that would interest you?