Neuros offers bounties to the public to improve their HTPC streaming box

Neuros, known for its unusual but generally well-received audio-visual and HTPC components, has come out with the Neuros LINK.  The LINK is currently a part of what's known as Neuros' Gamma Program (from the greek letter gamma, which follows beta), in which pre-production hardware is made available to the public.  A no-questions asked, four-month return policy is also part of the $300 package deal, at least until it moves into production status.

The $300 linux-powered box comes with a wireless keyboard with trackball, for controlling the box while sitting on the couch.  For those who wish to provide their own interface solution, you can purchase the Link sans "keymote" for fifty bucks less.  LINK allows customers to steram a variety of audio and video sources from all over the internet and/or network, straight to your TV.

The box offers the following specifications.  Unfortunately, we don't know all the hardware in it, yet:

• Open Source Media PC connects to your HDTV via HDMI and streams Internet based TV for your viewing enjoyment.
• Works with Hulu, NBC, CBS, Youtube, etc
• BitTorrent client built-in (requires external hard drive
• Operating system: Neuros distribution of Ubuntu 8.10
• Pre-installed Open-source video players (MPlayer, VLC, Xine)
• Support for streaming audio services like Pandora and Last.FM
• Full Widescreen 1080p Support
• 1080p H.264 video playback
• HDMI (max resolution 1920x1200, 1080p) output
• High-definition 6-channel Audio output
• Optical S/PDIF audio output
• Gigabit ethernet
• 802.11 g/b wireless networking
• 6 USB 2.0 Ports
• Dimensions: 11.8"(W) x 3.5"(D) x 12.8(H)"

What's cool about this (other than that it's inherently awesome) is that Neuros is offering a bunch of bounties to run up interest:

1. Get Netflix working in Linux before the competition does:   $2500
2. Working Move networks plug-in                                       $2000
3. Get iTunes working - at least audio and with DRM              $1000
4. Configure wired/wireless Network interfaces                       $750
5. Video resolution and Xorg settings changer                       $750     
6. Error and Problem Reporter                                             $500
7. Upgrade GUI                                                                 $750

Further reading:

the Neuros LINK, direct from Neuros.

Neuros blog posting discussing the bounties