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TL;DR
- Elon Musk has launched the X TV app in beta, available on Android TV, LG, Amazon Fire TV, and Google TV, aiming to rival YouTube and Netflix.
- The app offers features like Replay TV, Startover TV, and Free Cloud DVR, allowing users to store and replay content without a set-top box.
- X TV aims to provide a diverse range of live and on-demand content, including movies, music, news, sports, and weather channels.
- The app is part of Musk’s broader vision to transform X into an ‘everything’ app, integrating video streaming with social media and financial services.
Elon Musk, the CEO of X, formerly known as Twitter, has launched a new smart TV app called X TV, marking a significant step in his ambition to transform X into a comprehensive platform that rivals major streaming services like YouTube and Netflix. The app is currently in its beta phase and is available on select devices, including LG smart TVs, Amazon Fire TVs, and Google TVs. However, it has not yet been released on Apple TV or the Apple App Store for tvOS.
The X TV app aims to offer a unique streaming experience by integrating social media elements with traditional over-the-top (OTT) streaming services. Users can access a variety of live and on-demand content, including news, sports, movies, music, and weather channels. The app eliminates the need for set-top boxes, allowing users to watch content directly on their TVs by logging in with their X accounts.
Key Features of X TV:
- Replay TV: This feature allows users to store up to 72 hours of programming in the cloud, enabling them to catch up on missed shows at any time.
- Startover TV: Users can start any live show from the beginning, even if they tune in late.
- Free Cloud DVR: The app provides free storage for up to 100 hours of DVR recordings, with additional storage options available.
Elon Musk announced the beta version of X TV on his platform, X, highlighting its availability on Android TV platforms. The rollout of the app has been staggered, with Amazon Fire TV users gaining access in late July and LG smart TV users on August 29. This phased approach suggests that X is carefully monitoring performance and user feedback before a full-scale launch.
Musk’s vision for X extends beyond social media, as he aims to transform the platform into an “everything” app that encompasses various services, including financial transactions. The introduction of X TV is a strategic move to increase competition in the crowded OTT and video streaming market, challenging established players like YouTube and Netflix.
While the beta version of X TV is currently free, there are promises of exclusive content, live events, and news in the future. The app’s gradual rollout indicates a cautious approach, with further announcements expected as the official launch approaches. This development is part of Musk’s broader strategy to expand X’s presence and capabilities, potentially reshaping how users engage with video content on the platform.
