Updated on Apr 1, 2026
Introduction
We launched the ZapperBox dual and single tuner devices in July 2022. In August 2023, we added support for DVR, and in October 2023, for DRM. In November 2024, we added support for multi-room DVR. In December 2024 we started shipping the Zapper Mini. In July 2025 we started taking orders for the quad-tuner. We continue to enhance the multi-room and DVR capabilities of our products.
Why is this important?
As long-time antenna users know, the antenna cannot always be located near the TV. Multi-room DVR lets you locate your main ZapperBox where you have the best antenna signal and watch TV from another room.Â
What is unique about the ZapperBox approach?
When we started designing ZapperBox, we built in support for IP controls and distributed tuners. This means that multiple ZapperBox devices can use each other's storage and tuners over the home network. This is unique. Most whole-home DVR solutions support only one antennas connected to one gateway. We support many!
Quad tuner
We started taking pre-orders for our quad-tuner model in July 2025 and plan to ship it by June 2026. However, using our distributed architecture, you can have as many tuners as you want, and each device gives you an extra HDMI output to take advantage of HDR, Dolby Atmos and 4K. We do not transcode the video or audio when we transport content over the home network. This means that you see the original and highest quality video without any down resolution or transcoding of video or Dolby audio to PCM stereo. You can design your own home-DVR system with as many tuners as you want.
DVR client box or smart TV app?
While smart TV apps are great, they have some disadvantages. Hardly any TVs support Dolby AC-4 today, which is one of the main advantages of NEXTGEN TV. As a start, we have launched the Zapper Mini tuner-free DVR extender for rooms without an antenna feed. The Zapper Mini uses a decoder that supports Dolby AC-4, HDR, 4K, and DRM. It also allows for local storage via a USB port or microSD card.
What about DRM and Live TV?
All connected devices on the home network support DRM and Live TV.
What about away-from-home viewing?
This is doable. We plan to work with A3SA to propose mechanisms that will enable this while preventing unauthorized use of secure content.
ATSC 1.0 or NEXTGEN TV?
ZapperBox devices support both ATSC 1.0 and ATSC 3.0. The transition to NEXTGEN TV is picking up speed. Our position is that DVR and gateway devices have a long life, and consumers will choose to protect their investment. With ZapperBox you can enjoy all the ATSC 1.0 content and be future proofed as the industry transitions to NEXTGEN TV and finally sunsets ATSC 1.0.
