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SlingPlayer for iPhone release imminent: $30, Wi-Fi only
The long-delayed SlingPlayer for iPhone will be hitting the iTunes App Store in the next 24 hours--but the software will only stream video over Wi-Fi, not AT&T's 3G data network. The restriction is a big blow to the usability of the software, which allows owners of Slingbox set-top boxes to stream their home TV in real-time to anywhere in the world.
The SlingPlayer app will cost $29.99--expensive for iPhone apps, but the exact same price as previous iterations of the SlingPlayer Mobile apps available for Windows Mobile, Palm OS, BlackBerry, and Symbian handhelds. SlingPlayer Mobile should work on all existing iPhones and iPod Touch models. Also, while Sling had indicated that the iPhone player would only work with the Slingbox Solo, Slingbox Pro, and Slingbox Pro-HD models, the company has now indicated that it will work with legacy models as well--though tech support will only be available for the aforementioned trio of models.
We'll have a more in-depth look at the software and an updated video soon. But so far as we can tell, the software hasn't changed very much since the beta version was unveiled earlier this year. Thus, Tom Merritt's hands-on video (embedded above) gives you a very good idea of what you'll be getting with SlingPlayer Mobile. (Update: See Jeff Bakalar's hands-on review and video.)
So, what do you think? Is the dearth of 3G access a deal-killer? Or will you be picking up a Slingbox just so you can stream video to your iPhone or iPod Touch via Wi-Fi? Sound off below.
Update (5/13/2009, 8:40am): The SlingPlayer Mobile for iPhone app is now available.
John P. Falcone covers home theater and network entertainment products. He's been writing for CNET since 2002.
Is this limitation by Sling just an iPhone limitation or does it have similar limitations on other platforms also?
I love the iphone for it's capability, but it is such a shame that a great device is crippled by at&t in this case and by apple in so many other cases.
Why allow 3g streaming on the most popular devices (there are still many more bberry's out there than iphones), but not on the iphone.
I know I'll end up buying it, but I am disapointed.
SlingMedia: Unfortunately , all the keys purchased for other phones and PDAs are not transferable to the iPhone or iPod touch, and this is because it's handle by Apple and the software is very different.
9:21 PM: Hmm, well the software for iphone is less than what I had with my palm, no edge or 3g. I know that is an att issue but see this article for whats being reported...
9:21 PM : http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-19512_7-10238816-233.html
9:24 PM Slingmedia: I understand, I just saw it and since this is not an official announcement, I can only say that will work only with wireless and not 3G yet and it's not possible to transfer the keys on the different mobiles to the iPhone
North America still crying over 3G, while in some developing countries had faster service since 3 years ago, a higher speed of 3.5G, and true unlimited data over truly unlocked phones, ... and if we consider how much we are paying here, it is really a sad joke
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by rjraouf
May 12, 2009 11:21 PM PDT
- I remember when Slingmedia came up with the software for the PDA, I downloaded it rightaway. I was so excited about it. But after a few weeks, I didn't even bother it anymore... why, because at home, I can watch TV. At work, I have computers to sling media. I don't go to the coffee shops because I am not gay. Anywhere else, I don't have Wi-Fi.
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by DesertRavEdog
May 14, 2009 4:06 PM PDT
- I'm sorry.. but what does a coffee shop have to do with being gay? Ignorant SOB. Crediblility of your comments: FAIL.
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