Akai launches Smart Box for TVs

Akai has launched an affordable smart box for that adds an element of intelligence to older television. The Akai Smart Box will run on all types of televisions from CRT to LED and bring Internet as well as apps to the large screen.

The Smart Box runs Android 2.3 on an ARM A8 chip and has 4GB of storage for apps and other stuff. Instead of a remote, Akai is providing a wireless mouse with the Smart Box considering that lots of people will be using it to access the net and will need something more handy. All apps on the Google Play Store can be downloaded and run on the box.

Similarly, it also plays most video and picture formats. While the Smart Box can access the Net using the Wi-Fi and LAN or with a 3G or 2G dongle, it can also turn into a wireless hotspot for up to five devices.

Pranay Dhabhai, Managing Director, AKAI India, said the company is looking at selling one lakh units of the Smart Box in the coming months. The company will face serious competition from the Amkette Evo TV , which though more expensive at Rs 9,999, packs in better features and user experience. However, Akai has priced the product very competitively at Rs 6,590 which will make it a good buy for people with old CRTs and cheaper LCD televisions.

The Smart Box has an HDMI port for Full HD video playback, an AV port, four USB ports, SD/MMC card slot with support for up to 32 GB as well as headphone and mic jacks. It is also compatible with wireless keyboards and webcams.