Streaming-media devices continue to grow in popularity amid swiftly shifting competition, according to a new report.
During the first three quarters of 2014, 10 percent of US households with a broadband connection bought at least one streaming-media player, market researcher Parks Associates said Tuesday. The players include set-top boxes and sticks, which plug into HDMI ports, that access scores of channels and services, such as Netflix, Hulu Plus or Amazon Instant Video.
Roku's lineup of set-top boxes and streaming sticks was still the most popular so far this year despite a strong dip, securing 29 percent of sales in the first nine months. Google's Chromecast stick leaped onto the scene, snagging the No. 2 spot with 20 percent share and stealing Apple TV's previous slot. The Apple TV box fell to third place with 17 percent share. Amazon's Fire TV box and stick, also new on the scene, came in fourth place with 10 percent share.
From the article "Roku still tops as sales of streaming-media players rise" by Don Reisinger.
Parks Associates analyst Tejas Mehta agrees the bad press won't change much unless Lyft and Sidecar add more investors and find a new way to stand out. "Lyft has been competing with Uber on pri...
Meanwhile, over-the-top boxes like Apple TV are surging in popularity. Research group Parks Associates estimates sales of such streaming-media devices will top 57 million worldwide in 2018, nearly...
For Amazon, the introduction of the exclusive service could help it gain more attention in the crowded market of streaming-media players, where it remains a second-tier player. Rival Roku is the le...
Venture capitalists' recent investments in Uber "underscore the confidence investors have in Uber's growth," an Uber spokeswoman said. She said additional funding will be geared toward its car-pool...
