Sony Bravia Internet Video Link lacks luster

The video-streaming product category is getting crowded. There's the Apple TV, Vudu, Xbox 360, Netflix Player, and PlayStation 3, not to mention the traditional video on-demand services from cable and satellite providers. Sony's Bravia Internet Video Link (also known as the BIVL) is fighting in the same space, but it starts out with one significant handicap--it only works with newer Sony Bravia LCDs.

If you don't already have a Sony Bravia LCD and don't want to buy one, don't worry about it, as you're not missing much with the BIVL. While it does differentiate itself significantly from its competition by offering lots of free content, we felt like we got what we paid for--most of the content was lackluster. More annoying was the sluggish interface, which was only made worse by haphazard organization of the program material. It wasn't all bad news, as the BIVL did reliably stream the video clips we selected, and the recent addition of Amazon's Video On-Demand service makes it more appealing. But, at the end of the day, almost everyone will be better off with one of the aforementioned alternatives, all of which offer better user experiences.

Read the full Sony Bravia Internet Video Link review.

[dsc3507]

I got the video link as a bonus when buying my Sony Bravia TV. At best it it s a toy and probably more a waste of time then anything else. Like most Manufacturer add-ons it is only as good as Sony makes it and without content providers and their support it is a useless box. So if that were to ever go away (and it eventually will) you are left with a lousy paper weight.

I was able to get the local file playing to work but for me it was a challenge. Who besides a geek would have the knowledge or patience to even do this. First you have to have a HTTP server where you place the files in a directory. Then you have to use your browser with add-on (only explorer not firefox) to add bookmarks to the video link memory. Then you go to the TV and hope it works. No where does it tell you exactly what files it will play. I did find it would play wmv's for the most part. If not or if you just want to delete a link you will have to log onto a Sony page, where you previously registered, and logon to see and delete the bookmarks. There is no way to do this at the TV screen. Such a kludge. Why anyone would buy this box is beyond me. While it is hard to pick a really good media box, this one is NOT in the running. Something like the Netgear EVA8000 or it's soon to be announced successor would be a much better choice. So buyer beware. If it comes with your TV and you get a good deal then play with it until you get bored, which won't take long, otherwise get something else.