Zotac has debuted an Android-powered set-top box PC dubbed the “StreamBox.”
As expected, the device is designed to plug directly into a TV and stream content to and from multiple sources, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The set-top box supports both DLNA and Miracast wireless protocols. Both of those protocols are supported on Android 4.2 and later devices, allowing users to mirror what they see on the screen of their mobile devices or TVs.
The StreamBox isn’t one of the “classic” mini computers that we’re used to seeing from Zotac, even though it looks rather similar to the the Zbox we discussed in the past.
Specs? The StreamBox is equipped with an HDMI output, a micro USB cable, USB power adapter, Mini optical S/PDIF adapter, USB connectivity, Ethernet, and integrated Wi-Fi.
While the big feature is the ability to stream content from your smartphone using the StreamBox directly to your TV, the device also supports playback of content directly from connected flash drives or hard drives. The device can also play music, video, and display photos from the connected storage devices on your big-screen TV.
In addition, the StreamBox is very compact which should make it easy to fit into a crowded entertainment system. The device measures 4.2 x 4.2 x 1.5-inches and uses a special low-power chip – consuming only 3 W of power.
Unfortunately, Zotac is mum on most of the specifications, as we have no idea as to what processor the device runs. It’s also unclear if the device supports apps and custom ROMs. Availability and pricing info is also pending.