Have you ever envisioned an Android game console that would have capabilities on par with that of current generation game consoles like the Xboxes and Playstations? Well, the console exists, and it’s called the iConsole.tv.
What is the iConsole.tv? The iConsole.tv will be a game console box that incorporates an Android based OS with a Linux Desktop. Skeptical about this 2-in-1 arrangement? Don’t worry because the interface for the iConsole.tv will remain Android-based and will be optimized for both gamepad and mouse-and-keyboard inputs. A wonderful side-effect of this 2-in-1 arrangement however is the ability of the console to play both Android and Linux games which, you guessed it, will include Valve’s very own Steam library.
The iConsole.tv, which is being made by Mobile Media Ventures (MMV), is currently rolling out the developer’s version of the iConsole.tv, dubbed Unit 00. This developer unit will incorporate hardware including:
- a fourth generation Intel Core processor,
- 8 GB of RAM,
- 500 GB Solid State Hybrid Drive,
- Bluetooth 4.0,
- and Gigabit Ethernet.
The iConsole.tv is also being designed to be able to support HD DVR, 4K, and 3DTV as well as the ability to support two high-def TVs for output, thanks to dual-HDMI and DisplayPort slots.
And all of that comes to a fair price of $699. For reference, that’s more powerful than most gaming computers out there now, and arguably more powerful than the incoming Xbox One and Playstation 4. MMV notes that the commercial version will be smaller than the developer’s kit (pictured above, Unit 00 on the left, prototype commercial iConsole.tv on the right) and will cost “hundreds” less than Unit 00 does.
And the best news of all? MMV is saying that the commercial release of the iConsole.tv will be in winter this year, right in the ballpark of the Xbox One and Playstation 4 releases. Obviously, the iConsole.tv doesn’t quite have the allure or prestige of the game console heavyweights, but it does present itself as a very attractive alternative for Android and Linux gamers alike who have been hoping for that third console option.
If you want to find out more about the iConsole.tv, or if you’re interested in their dev kit, check out the iConsole.tv website HERE.
Who else is getting giddy with excitement hearing about the iConsole.tv; I know I am. Let us know in the comments if you’re just as excited.
