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Another Set-Top to Stream 4K (MESA)

Chinese consumer electronics company Xiaomi is going to give Roku and other 4K streaming devices a run for their money in the U.S. The company announced Oct. 3 that it will debut the 4K, high dynamic range (HDR) streaming device, the Mi Box, in the U.S. for the first time, with a $69 retail price. The device will initially be available only in Walmart stores or via Mi.com. Using the Android TV platform, the device streams content in 4K at 60 frames per second, supports HDR 10, and will handle both Google Voice search and Google Cast. The box promises to offer both the latest streaming apps, as well as live TV channels, including ESPN, CNN and Disney.

“We are thrilled to bring Mi Box to our fans in the U.S. in collaboration with Google,” said Hugo Barra, VP of Xiaomi Global. “This is a significant milestone for Xiaomi, as it is our first opportunity to demonstrate to consumers here in America the power of what makes Xiaomi extraordinary: our promise of innovation for everyone. We believe everyone is entitled to benefit from technological breakthroughs, and Mi Box is a reflection of that belief: an incredible entertainment experience at an unprecedented price of $69, less than the cost of a single night out for two.”

Sascha Prueter, Google’s head of Android TV, added: “The Android TV team is excited to partner with Xiaomi to deliver the Mi Box to the U.S. With features like voice search and HDR support, the Mi Box takes advantage of the latest Android TV platform innovations.”

Content and other partners at launch include Sling TV, Pandora and Vudu. Roger Lynch, CEO of Sling TV, praised the device: “Since its founding, Xiaomi has been a disruptor overseas, and we expect the launch of Mi Box in the U.S. to be no different. Our goal has always been to expand Sling TV to the most popular consumer devices, and we believe Mi Box’s revolutionary technology and accessible price point paired with the Sling TV experience will be a winning combination among American consumers.”