Hi I am after an alternative to my trusty Vodafone tv.
I spend 80% of my time using the netflix and youtube app and 20% of the time watching TV1.
Cheers
Vodafone TV Alternative since Vodafone TV Is Closing down
LTheCheifKev on 18/03/2022 - 14:49
Comments
The Apple TV isn’t Apple-specific. I have both, and they’d both be perfectly fine replacements.
The Apple TV is more expensive, but noticeable faster, and apps are definitely more reliable. In NZ, Chromecast with Google TV is better at suggesting things to stream across multiple platforms. Apple’s is better in Australia, but they haven’t brought the interface here yet.
Chromecast with Google TV can also connect to a VPN, if you want yo stream things from overseas. I use it to watch AFL on Kayo.
We have chromecast TV and were pleasantly surprised to find that the CEC (citation needed) commands work both ways. Great for oldies.
Apple TV is a bit less straight forward
I'm really going to miss VTV. Particularly the ability to replay shows and be able to skip all the ads.
It is nice that I'll get a $75 refund. I got the VTV for $99 a couple of year ago.
I also got it for $99 - and they lost my delivery - which delayed it for month while VF's as usual terrible customer service sorted their lives out. Which meant I activated it eventually 1 day after the cut off to $100. So for 2 years of use - I make a $1 profit :) - shame though - its actually a good device and its not easy to find a replacement as you say with the same functionality around replaying shows etc.
I am not an iphone user but we have an appleTv and its great. Just works and works well. Am waiting for a Amazon Firestick to arrive also (for another TV), as I didn't want to fork out the cash for another appleTv, but still wanted a physical remote (which the Google TV lacks).
(which the Google TV lacks).
Are you sure?
As far as I know, separate remotes are optional with Google TV, whereas with Apple TV you have no choice.
I might be wrong :-)
You are right, however the CWGT does come with a remote as standard.
lol well shows how much time I put into my research :facepalm.
GrabOne have a refurbished ChromeCast4 with Google TV and, what appears to be, a remote control, for $99 currently:
https://new.grabone.co.nz/electronics-computers/tv/p/google-…
I have not used it myself, so you'd need to be sure if does everything you want.
Alan.
Chromecast with Google TV. If you still have $20 coupons from 1day sale then can buy for $80 on market which is pretty good deal.
You can also do this if you use the laybuy payment today and a refer a fried coupon. But you need to buy something else to get the total over $120
Chromecast with google tv user here. They are really good. If you’re a high roller you could also get an nvidia shield.
Does this have standard Freeview channels as well? Not three now, but like standard channels
It needs to be sideloaded, but it's relatively simple.
https://www.matthuisman.nz/2021/02/new-zealand-apks-for-side…
We've discussed it a bit in other posts.
Thanks for link
that standard freeview app isnt in operation anymore right???
@Hayce Irri: It is, but it's released by Dish TV for their "Smart Vu" boxes. They have been kind enough not to allow other branded Android TV devices to install it, even though it works fine, so sideloading it is the easy way around that.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=nz.co.dishtv.F… - Was updated March 1 to the version Matt has on his site.
@Kiwi: Managed to sideload this relatively easily. Also set up the ‘live channels’ app via the Matt Huisman website. He’s a good resource
Bought the google tv with remote when I heard the vtv was getting whacked. Has been very good since. In fact, better. I'll be getting another with the $75 refund, bought for $99 too couple years ago.
Chromecast with Google tv is very capable device and should be good for most people at that price point. I have it for few months now and love it. I have plex, Netflix and youtube apps. That remote is awesome (it comes with it).
My favorite thing about VTV was the ability to pause/rewind/forward live TV. Do any of these other devices allow this at all?
we got 2 of these "SmartVu 4K Ultra HD Android TV" Cant record but with Freeview on demand and Threenow you can watch delayed. Only needs wifi and has a freeview streaming app to watch live TV. All the others apps are available, disney, netflix, neon, tvnz, amazon prime. and the one remote can turn TV off and on and control volume. About $120 and has built in chromecast. Needs power and HDMI port.
Isn't freeview on demand also finishing up this year?
Finishing up what?
Closure extended again to end of Feb next year. Good for me as I haven't sorted out a replacement yet.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/130503059/vodafone-tv-switc…
Chromecast with Google TV. Failing that, a standard chromecast but you'll need to use your phone to control everything (unlike the CGTV)
Apple/iphone users will suggest Apple TV. Never tried it myself but users tend to rate it.