TiVo software supports more codecs

TiVo has slowly been expanding the scope of its service to include the commonly available content the Internet has to offer. Last week, the company finally announced support for YouTube content, and today announced an update to its Desktop Plus software supporting most video codecs.

Windows software TiVo Desktop Plus 2.6 converts various formats to .tivo files, playable on Series 3 or TiVo HD DVRs, supporting resolutions up to 720p. The software also converts programs recorded on the user's DVR to files playable on PCs or portable media devices.

File types supported on TiVo Desktop Plus now include: .wmv, .mov, .mp4, .m4v, .mp4v, .avi or .divx files (encoded with Xvid or DivX v. 4 and up.) Files with rights management, however, remain unsupported.

Recently announcing its "best year ever," TiVo is optimistic about the future, and with this additional file type support, hopes to remain competitive with the increasing functionality of cable company-provided DVRs.

The software will cost TiVo users an additional $24.95.