WalMart to launch Chromecast rival Vudu Spark

WalMart is gearing up to launch a Vudu-branded HDMI streaming dongle, according to documents filed with the FCC, in an apparent bid to take on the likes of Google’s Chromecast.

According to the filings, which were first picked up by tech blog Gigaom, the device, called Vudu Spark, will connect to a users’ WiFi and is designed to act as a gateway for the Walmart’s Vudu movie and TV store.

WalMart is working with Korean electronics and manufacturing firms Inkel and Movon, though no release date was given.

The device will be the latest to join the expanding ranks of HDMI streaming devices, with Google, Roku, Amazon, Mozilla and Microsoft all having launched their own TV dongles.