I agree about perhaps not being allowed/want to move the computer close enough to run a HDMI to a TV, but OTOH, I dont think steambox is a more simple solution. Do you really think that someone who cant figure out how to run a simple cable from a PC to a TV will want to deal with streaming or adding another piece of hardware altogether (steambox)?
Maybe. Like I said - HTPCs never sold, but Apple TVs and Rokus did.
Also, there's connecting it, and then theres using it. Power + HDMI to a small box, then using a remove is in the realm of what people can handle.
PC (that doesn't fit into the cabinet easily) + keyboard/mouse, add IR reciever + remote/game controller...I guess I'm just cynical about the whole thing.
I've had HTPCs since 2004. I've watched over the years as people have seen the capability, asked 'hey, how can I do that?' and tune out right at "you need a computer and a WMC remote".
"If you want to record shows, you need a cablecard tuner. Theyre around $200"
"Nope".
"What do you spend on DVRs?"
"$25/month"
"an HTPC will pay for itself in 10-12 months"
"Yeah, but $200 is a lot of money!"
"How do I put my computer on the TV like you do?"
"Well the easy way would be to connect your laptop via HDMI and see if thats useful for you before you buy a full blown setup. Does your laptop have HDMI?"
"I think so yeah"
"Okay, so this laptop doesn't have HDMI because you bought the cheapest one they had. Do you have an older desktop that might have HDMI? Or would you want to buy a newer low end computer?"
"um.....how do I put the computer on the TV like you do?"
"Your cousin wants to play the gun game that everyone plays. How do we get that app on the Samsung SMART TV store?"
I can do these examples all day....unfortunately.