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VIZIO launched the Co-Star LT on October 16, 2013 as a $79.99 streaming box for HDMI-equipped HDTVs. Unlike the original Co-Star, it did not run Google TV; it used VIZIO Internet Apps Plus instead.
What the Co-Star LT was
The Co-Star LT was designed to add streaming and other smart-TV functions to an existing HDTV with HDMI-HDCP connectivity. VIZIO positioned it as a lower-cost upgrade rather than a replacement television. Amazon and other retailers were expected to carry it later in October 2013.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
VIZIO B11 CoStar ISV LT Stream Player | $99.95 | Buy on Amazon |
The key difference: no Google TV
The “lite” label referred chiefly to the software platform. The earlier Co-Star used Google TV, while the LT used VIZIO Internet Apps Plus. Contemporary coverage described the change as leaving off Google TV.
VIZIO Internet Apps Plus presented a full-screen app library, a carousel-style launcher, HTML5 app support and smartphone or tablet second-screen control. VIZIO also described a mode that let users browse apps while live television continued.
#1 Best Overall
- Internet connection required and sold separately.
- Combines your existing live TV with the best in streaming entertainment into one seamless experience.
- Built-in Wi-Fi for easy, hassle-free internet access.
- Access popular streaming apps such as Netflix, iHeartRadio, MGo, Amazon Instant Video, Vudu, YouTube, and more.
- Second Screen Interactivity
How its HDMI pass-through worked
The box included both HDMI input and HDMI output. A cable or satellite receiver could connect to the LT’s input, with the LT then connected to the television. That arrangement allowed users to browse supported apps without changing the television’s input, while still passing the set-top-box signal through.
Apps named at launch
VIZIO’s 2013 materials highlighted these services:
- Amazon Instant Video
- Netflix
- MGO
- Vudu
- Hulu Plus
- iHeartRadio
- YouTube
These names describe the launch-era service environment. They should not be read as confirmation that every service remains available or functional on a Co-Star LT today.
Hardware and connection requirements
| Specification | Co-Star LT detail |
|---|---|
| Video output | Up to 1080p Full HD; 720p support and 3D pass-through were listed |
| Wireless networking | 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi |
| Wired networking | Required an optional USB-to-Ethernet adapter |
| USB | USB 2.0 |
| Dimensions | 3.97 × 0.97 × 3.97 inches |
| Product weight | 0.36 lb |
| Warranty | One year, according to VIZIO’s 2013 datasheet |
Cables and adapters
HDMI cables were not included. You needed an HDMI cable for the television connection, and another HDMI connection was needed if you wanted to route a cable or satellite receiver through the LT. Wi-Fi was built in; wired networking required the optional USB adapter.
What the $79.99 launch price meant
The announced price was $79.99 at launch on October 16, 2013. It was a historical launch price, not a current resale value or indication of present-day stock. Because the product dates from 2013, availability, app access and support must be verified independently before buying a used unit.
Co-Star LT versus the original Co-Star
| Feature | Co-Star LT | Original Co-Star |
|---|---|---|
| Software platform | VIZIO Internet Apps Plus | Google TV |
| HDMI pass-through | HDMI input and output | Present as a core Co-Star feature |
| Networking | 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi; optional USB Ethernet adapter | Varied by the original model’s specification |
| Launch price | $79.99 in October 2013 | Not stated in the cited LT materials |
The practical trade-off was straightforward: the LT retained the Co-Star concept of combining live-TV pass-through with streaming, but replaced Google TV with VIZIO’s own app environment and targeted a lower price.
Should you buy one now?
Only with realistic expectations. The hardware can still be relevant for a compatible HDMI display and a period-appropriate setup, but the original app catalog, account sign-ins, firmware services and retailer stock are not established by the 2013 launch documents. Treat it as obsolete equipment unless a seller can demonstrate the exact functions you need.
The Bottom Line
The Co-Star LT was VIZIO’s $79.99 2013 streaming-box alternative to the original Co-Star: it kept HDMI live-TV pass-through and added Wi-Fi streaming, but used VIZIO Internet Apps Plus instead of Google TV.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
