TiVo Mini Companion Device Works with Existing DVRs

TiVo on Monday announced the availability of a new companion device that allows TiVo users to access apps and extend the viewing of live TV, recorded and streaming content, and even on-demand programming to rooms throughout the home without having to invest in an additional DVR. It's called TiVo Mini, and it's a $99 box that works with existing 4-tuner TiVo DVRs.

"The TiVo Mini answers the demand for a simplified whole-home viewing experience and a more cost-effective solution than putting another DVR or cable set-top box in another room," said Jim Denney, GM and VP of Product Marketing for TiVo Inc. "With so many viewing options in a compact form factor, TiVo Mini makes it easier to get more value from your existing home entertainment set up by further enabling you to watch what you want, where you want it."

TiVo Mini

The TiVo Mini device is not a DVR and requires a 4-tuner DVR (compatible with TiVo Premier 4 and TiVo Premiere XL4 models). Users can then control their main DVR through the Mini, and are even able to start a show in one room and finish it later on in another room, TiVo says.

It's a compact device that measures 1.25 inches (W) by 6.12 inches (L) by 6.12 inches (D) and weighs 0.78 pounds. In addition to the cost of the box, users have to pony up $5.99/month for 12 months, or purchase lifetime service for a one-time cost of $250.