TVSquad

Flash developer Paul Yanez either has way too much time on his hands, or he really doesn't like the way web video is presented. Yanez has already made browser-based versions of online video services like Joost and Babelgum. And he developed an Apple Front Row-like Flash application for watching streaming video from sites including YouTube, MySpace, and Heavy.

Now he's back with Hulu Media Player, a new approach toward watching videos from online video site Hulu. Like OpenHulu and TV Paradise, Hulu Media Player lets users without Hulu beta accounts watch TV shows and Movies hosted by the service. But unlike other sites, Hulu Media Player doesn't require you to use a mouse and keyboard to search for content from NBC and Fox. All you need is a mouse (although we'd really prefer keyboard shortcuts).

The media player looks a lot like Apple's Front Row interface. When you hit the "show guide" button you get a list of available TV shows. Click on one to bring up a list of episodes available for viewing. Right now only a small portion of the Hulu library is available, but there's still probably more worth watching on Hulu Media Player than there is on TV tonight. Hulu Media Player is still a work in progress. Several times when we clicked on an episode, a different episode began playing. But at least it was from the correct TV series.

If Apple's Front Row media center software just isn't doing it for you, there are plenty of alternative applications for enjoying your media in a full screen way. One of the more powerful Front Row alternatives, XHub Media Center has a new release out this week.

Version 2.2 sports enhanced TV and photos modules, improved remote controls, and new animations and other tweaks including a new search as you type feature.

You can use XHub to watch movies, play music, or view photo slideshows. It also supports EyeTV integration for watching live and recorded television programs.

XHub 2.2 is a free upgrade for existing customers. A full license costs $24.95.