Western Digital announced on Thursday that a new iteration of its WD TV Live media player would ship with the popular online music service Spotify built in - a first according to the company. Is it enough to convince consumers to meet the $99 asking price?
WD's device is otherwise the same as it's always been: a Wi-Fi/Ethernet-connectable, 1080p streaming player that supports TV and movie services including Netflix, Hulu Plus and Blockbuster. The key difference is the Spotify support, which lets those with premium subscriptions ($9.99/month) listen to over 15 million songs through WD TV Live-equipped home theater systems.
Other aspects of Spotify currently available to account holders on the PC also make the transition. Members will be able to socialize with fellow Spotify users, organize MP3s and recommend tracks to friends.
Both companies view the deal as an important step toward a more-connected and flexible home entertainment experience.
"WD is committed to providing our customers with a premium entertainment experience that includes seamless streaming of personal media and the best of the Internet directly to the highest quality screen and sound system in the home," said Jim Welsh, executive vice president and general manager for WD's Branded Products and Consumer Electronics groups. "By marrying advanced features of the new wireless WD TV Live with quality content from service providers, including a first of its kind service with Spotify, we are excited to deliver on that commitment."
"We're really excited to make further steps into the living room with the streaming media players from Western Digital, which from today offer the full Spotify streaming catalog in a truly innovative TV-focused user experience," said Pascal de Mul, Global Head of Hardware Partnerships, Spotify.
The UK-based music service made its U.S. debut in July. (via Western Digital)
