Submitted by Bob Bhatnagar on
Wireless carrier AT&T's new policy of allowing some bandwidth-heavy iPhone applications to run over its expanded 3G network is now being put to the test. SlingPlayer Mobile allows users to stream video content from their Slingbox to iPhones anywhere 3G or Wi-Fi is available.
The previous version of SlingPlayer Mobile, first released last year, restricted streaming video to Wi-Fi only at the request of AT&T. Video quality is still better over a Wi-Fi connection, as the stream has to be optimized for 3G speeds.
Slingbox makes it possible to watch anything visible on your home television directly on the iPhone or iPod Touch. Besides changing channels, the SlingPlayer Mobile app can be used to view and control your cable or satellite box, DVR, Apple TV, Tivo, and/or security cameras.
Macworld has just reviewed SlingPlayer Mobile 1.2 and found the 3G functionality and other improvements to be a worthwhile upgrade (rated 3.5 out of 5 mice).
SlingPlayer Mobile 1.2 was released on the AppStore last week for a price of $29.99. A Slingbox SOLO, PRO-HD, or PRO is required in addition to at least 256Kb upstream speed on your home Internet connection. Slingbox SOLO currently retails for $179.99 and the Slingbox PRO-HD runs $299.99.
Comments
Catalin replied on Permalink
The SlingPlayer on the iPhone was very expected as a lot of people are travelling a lot and not able to access their TV. But buying additional hardware may be an obstacle as they have to purchase the SlingBox then pay again for the application. Here is a demo of the SlingPlayer: http://www.thehdstandard.com/iphone/slingplayer-on-the-iphone/
Catalin
Professional Streaming Consultant