3G Mobile Slingbox: How Long Will Apple Wait?

Monday, February 8, 2010

The ball is in their court. As many reported last Friday AT&T has cleared the way for Slingplayer Mobile to work over their 3G network, pending approval from Apple.But is it in Apple´s best interest? Might they hold it up awaiting improvements in AT&T´s 3G network, or perhaps even until the release of the 3G iPads to begin shipping?

I know there are a number of people out there who are still hesitant to purchase an iPhone because of the dropped calls on AT&T´s exclusive carrier arrangement. While it is AT&T´s problem, Apple certainly has to share some of the blame and adding TV streaming over 3G can´t help.

But imagine the possibilities, an iPad that Dad can use for emailing, but while driving the kids to school that same iPad will have full access to the home television and allow the kids to watch their favorite cartoons on a substantial screen. Anywhere in the country the whole family will have access to its DVR. Or, the ability to attend live sporting events yet have access to the halftime show, commentary, and instant replay. The possibilities are staggering. I was able to watch the Super Bowl last night but rather than Spanish commentary provided in Buenos Aires a SlingBox brought us the game as it was aired in the states with the proper commercials in my local bar. Now the idea that I could have this in my lap, or pocket is wonderful.

Presumably, The 3G iPads, and there is much talk over subsidized iPads with a two year Verizon contract, will make this a must have application. Might Apple hold off on its release so they can include this app as a possible selling point for the iPad and to soften the additional $130 expected to accompany the WiFi and 3G model?

Slingplayer Mobile, which allows access to a Slingbox over the iPhone has been available since last year, but solely, for use over WiFi networks. Unless of course you have a jailbroken iPhone with Tricker3G installed. Tricker3G has been fooling AT&T serviced iPhones into believing they were running on WiFi rather than 3G for nearly a year. It only works for Skype, Fring, and SlingPlayer Mobile but it works and it´s free.

The app itself is available for $29.99 (App Store) but of course requires the $179 Slingbox Solo installed at home, or even better if you don´t live alone, the $299 Slingbox PRO-HD which not only broadcasts in HD, and from multiple video inputs but does not make you a slave to the choices being made by someone watching the same TV. Sling, Inc. is promising free upgrades for present owners of the WiFi only app the moment Apple approves it.

This is an article by the App Machine.