There is no pure play in set top boxes. That's good because you don't want to invest in thin margin one day pop hardware plays. A set top has a threat from device manufacturers who can put the set top functionality inside their boxes, inside a Sony tv or JVC VCR for example. If a Sony tv can receive Web tv, ATHM doesn't have a problem with set tops. They install splitters so you can take an internet feed off the cable to your PC and a feed to the set top or equivalent. Depending on the capabilities of the operating system in the set top you can receive ATHM over the tv. The tv just performs the function of local monitor. Most tvs are not yet rigged to support involved inter-activity like interactive games. Set tops and tvs will evolve to support this functionality if the demand for it is great enough. I believe the tv will persist mainly as a uni-directional medium and if so, ATHM won't be very significant to it.
ATHM is an ISP just like Mindspring or Earthlink. Does ELNK care what kind of computer you have? Software isn't relevant. ATHM doesn't write application software. ATHM doesn't create applications. They are a delivery mechanism, a content aggregator, and a multimedia integrator/creator. Because of the tremendous potential of full motion video over cable to PC or tv, and all the less throughput intensive uses, ATHM has a full plate.
If you're looking for a way to get involved with cable delivered broadband services, you might take a look at IATV. But read my recent comments there. The company is very speculative but does address the issues we're kicking around here. They have an education and sports orientation. For example, their feed over the digital tv enables you to pick your own views of sporting events like following one player during the game. You aren't stuck to the director's selection. I want to emphasize that they are one of the first to get into this area, so caveat emptor. If they are even a little successful, you can imagine it will develop into an avalanche, but it will take time. The big pipes are hardly in place so big expectations for small players must be contained. |
