KDDI unveils ICS 'Smart TV Box' for cable providers in Japan, available later this year (video)

[![KDDI unveils ICS 'Smart TV Box' for cable providers in Japan, available later this year][1] ][2]

We've seen a fair share of [Android-powered set-tops][3] in our time, but KDDI (with the help of Panasonic) has taken a slightly different entertainment route with its recently unveiled Smart TV Box. Similar to [_some_ Google TV boxes][4], which the Smart TV Box isn't, KDDI plans to bring this one to cable providers in Japan to act as the main unit in living rooms, with the testing phase set to commence as soon as next month. [KDDI's][5] Smart TV Box is powered by an undisclosed dual-core chip and feeds off of a tasty bite of Mountain View's Ice Cream Sandwich. As far as ports and other features, there's HDMI and three USB ports on board, while ethernet (WiFi, too) keeps you connected and a built-in hard drive takes care of all your DVR needs. Like we said earlier, trial runs will start in August, but the Japanese company expects to have the brick officially up-and-running in a number of households later this fall. In the meantime, though, there's a soothing video for your viewing pleasure just past the break.

[Continue reading _KDDI unveils ICS 'Smart TV Box' for cable providers in Japan, available later this year (video)_][2]

Filed under: [Misc. Gadgets][6], [Home Entertainment][7]

[KDDI unveils ICS 'Smart TV Box' for cable providers in Japan, available later this year (video)][2] originally appeared on [Engadget][8] on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 14:39:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds][9].

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