An FCC filing suggests that Sony is readying its own version of the Google Chromecast. With a confidentiality request lifting earlier this week, documentation such as external photos and the user guide have given us a good look at the Sony Internet Player (model number NSZ-GU1).
The pictures reveal a device larger than the Google Chromecast. Measuring 109 by 42 by 22.5 millimeters and weighing 70 grams, it comes with a number of ports, something that the Chromecast does not offer. It has HDMI-in and MHL-out (720p video) ports, a 2.5mm IR Blaster jack and a USB port (to supply power from a TV). There’s also a ‘Connect’ button.
As for internal specifications, it comes with a Marvell DE3108 processor, 8GB of internal memory, 1GB of RAM, 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 3.0.
It will also come with a remote control (NSG-MR9U), a micro-HDMI cable, a micro-USB cable and an IR Blaster cable.
It’s not immediately clear how Sony’s Internet Player will compare to the Chromecast in terms of functionality but the additional ports suggest a more versatile device. Our review of the Chromecast suggests that there is an opportunity for competitors to outdo Google when it comes to such devices.
With the confidentiality request having expired, it is likely that Sony will unveil its Internet Player at its press event on September 4th along its new flagship smartphone, the Sony Xperia Z1 (Honami).
Sources : FCC // XperiaBlog