Vudu Spark (Photo : www.engadget.com)
Walmart recently launched the "Vudu Spark," an HDMI dongle for its Vudu video streaming service on the television set.
The new product, which comes with its own remote, is exclusively available in Walmart stores only for the price of $24.95, according to Telecom Paper. Customers can also purchase the Vudu Spark on Walmart's online store.
The Vudu Spark, which supports 1080p pixel resolution and 7.1 surround sound, was initially sold in around 2,400 Walmart branches in December.
The streaming product is similar to the Amazon Fire TV and the Google Chromecast. The Vudu Spark is a WiFi-powered USB dongle that can be plugged in a HDTV. It will allow the user to purchase or rent TV shows or films available in the Vudu streaming service.
It was first revealed in the online database of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which regulates communications devices.
The Vudu streaming service was first acquired by Walmart in 2010, according to Tech Hive. The American retail firm bought Vudu to compete with Amazon and Netflix.
Even with other streamer dongles out in the market, one advantage the Vudu Spark may have is its price tag. The Google Chromecast costs around $35, Fire TV Stick at $40, Roku Streaming Stick at about $50 and Miracast from Microsoft costs around $60.
However, the dongle only supports Vudu; it has no support for YouTube, HBO GO, Netflix and even Hulu Plus.
Walmart is also offering the Vudu Spark with movie credits worth $25-the same price as the dongle itself-within a period of five months.
