TivoToGo Unofficial Newbie FAQ
What is TivoToGo?
TivoToGo is a new feature that Tivo is currently developing for free release to all Series 2 standalone Tivo subscribers. TivoToGo will allow users to copy shows to their computers or laptops over their home networks, and watch them at their computers or on the road with a laptop. Also, though this may or may not be available with the initial release, users will be able to use their DVD-Recorders on their PC or laptops to burn shows to DVD.
What are we expecting in the initial release?
Most are expecting just to be able to transfer shows to their PC and be able to watch them there. DVD-burning capability is expected to come later, as this ability is mainly supplied by a third-party vendor, Sonic. However, it is possible that we may be able to burn DVDs at initial release.
When is TivoToGo going to be released?
Tivo has not given a firm date. However, since their first press release about TivoToGo, they have promised a Fall 2004 release. This timeframe has been missed. During their 3rd quarter conference call, Tivo's CEO told investors that TivoToGo will be released by the end of the year. Not looking likely either. Latest chatter has indicated that Tivo's Ramsay will launch TivoToGo at CES, which is around January 7th, according to this thread.
Even when it is released, however, it may take time for it to be sent to your Tivo, as they usually do staggered releases. However, they *will* offer a web-signup to give priority to those on this board who request it, as they have done for some upgrades in the past.
Lets hope this happens sooner than later.
Will I be able to burn DVDs?
Yes, although not necessary right when it is released. Sonic will be the first third-party provider of software to allow users to burn shows to DVD. Whether or not we will be able to burn DVDs right when they release TivoToGo is to be seen, but it has been a promised feature.
Will I need a USB dongle to play TivoToGo DVDs?
NO, although the original press release indicated this would be necessary, the outcry caused by this decision has caused Tivo to change their minds. Tivo representatives have told us that the dongle idea is gone.
Can I play these DVDs I burn in any DVD player, or just the computer that burned them?
Yes, any DVD-player that can read burned DVDs will be able to read and play TivoToGo burned DVDs.
Will I be able to edit out commericials on shows burned to DVD?
Maybe. TivoPony has indicated that perhaps depending on which version of Sonic's software you have might determine to what degree you can edit the video. The post regarding this is here. Copyright questions might bear some weight on this issue.
What format will be shows be in on the PC, and how will they be viewed?
It seems like TivoDesktop or another application developed by Tivo will transfer the shows to your PC. From there, Tivo has not released any info as to what format the shows will be. Some have said that shows are played back in Windows Media player. Here are the only screenshots we have of it working:
http://www.engadget.com/entry/2139247581412236/ Anything beyond this is speculation.
Will I be able to send shows back to the Tivo?
Not likely at initial release. Tivo has never mentioned such a feature officially. They did have a survey which asked if people would be interested in such a feature, so they are thinking about it. Also, in a recent post, Halenger, who spoke with a Tivo customer support representative, says that the CSR said that they are working on Tivo2Comeback, which is this feature. We'll have to wait and see- this all can only be classified as speculation at this point.
Will I need to buy any special hardware or software to make TivoToGo work?
Depends. You will likely have to buy some sort of software to burn DVDs from Sonic, however, you will not have to buy any software to simply watch shows transfered from your Tivo to your computer or laptop. Pricing details have not been released. As far as hardware, you will need the Tivo set up on a home network. You will need the same hardware requirements as is for the Home Media Features.
Will TivoToGo require a special monthly or one-time fee?
No, Tivo has promised this is a free feature upgrade for all subscribers of Series 2 Tivos.
Will TivoToGo work on Mac?
Probably, but possibly not initially. Details are sparse on this, especially as Tivo has been rumored to be using some sort of Windows Media DRM. We will have to wait and see when it is released.
Will TivoToGo work with DirectTv Tivo boxes?
NO. Home media option is not available for DirectTV Tivos, and it is unlikely that this will be available any time soon because DirectTV has refused to cooperate with this. Sorry...
Will there be any other new features coming along with TivoToGo?
Maybe. Some speculate that they will release the latest version of the software, V5.0 or 6.0, which might include special kernel upgrades to allow hard drive upgrades of very large sizes. Also, there has been speculation that perhaps drivers for USB2.0 and/or 802.11G wireless network adapters will be rolled into this release. Having the extra speed that would come with those upgrades would compliment TivoToGo nicely. Again, this is speculation and has not been confirmed by Tivo.
I want it, and I want it now, Now, NOW!
Be patient, many of us do. We all hope for it to be soon. See "When will TivoToGo be released."
Any additions, comments, or suggestions? I will try to keep this as up-to-date as possible if there is interest.
or are they thinking to fight it in court when it comes up and hope sony-betamax holds up?
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