STRANGEBERRY... TIVO'S SECRET WEAPON?

With Tivo and Netflix's recent action that "formalized a partnership rumored a few weeks ago to deliver movies to the home via broadband Internet connection," it will be interesting to see how TiVo's other moves, such as its acquisition of Strangeberry, will fit into this picture.

Here are a few comments about this acquisition... at PVRblog ("Saving TiVo through Strangeberry"), Technocapitalist's blog, and Engadget ("TiVo's Secret Weapon: Strangeberry").

Back in 1999, when Jimmy, Peter, and I did a video-on-demand startup, we saw TiVo and Replay and thought they had a short life span. We knew that the major set-up box companies, such as Scientific-Atlanta and General Instruments, were also coming out with boxes with harddrives. Microsoft was also making a push with its Ultimate TV, so we thought the advantage of providing a better service would be short-lived.

To TiVo's credit, they did create a strong following and a new verb in the English language. Since they were quicker and more nimble, they stayed ahead of the giants but now they see the impending wave that will soon crash onto their shores. It will be interesting to see how they react and if they can survive. Maybe Strangeberry will be their rescue device. I'm very interested in seeing their user interface and functionality after reading about them and talking with my friends. Anyone see it?