Tag: Sling box »

iPad users get ready: SlingPlayer has just received its newest update (3.0) today!

First in today's software overhaul is an improved interface that makes it easier for users to search for the content they want using special filters and third-party services. Next on the list: Sports. Now finding the Big Game, or even a smaller one that you just really want to see, is a snap. And once that game is found users can check live statistics, find scores, and rant/gloat all over social media from directly within the app.

On the more technical side of things we have Second Screen Control and Split-Screen Navigation. Second Screen Control allows current SlingBox customers to turn their iPad into a "second screen companion," which is sort of like a super-fancy remote control that can also be used to view media directly. Split-Screen Navigation, on the other hand, is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: users can search for stuff to watch, do their social media thing, and check up on The Sports while simultaneously watching a video on their iPad. Neat stuff!

The SlingPlayer update is live right now, and requires iOS 7.0 or later. Oh, and all these nifty features are only available for the U.S. and Canada for some reason.

Xfinity / Comcast has released a new TV Viewer app that does parts of what you would want it to do. That goes along with the other Xfinity TV app that also does parts of what you would want it to do. Sigh. Pardon me for the following only slightly applicable rant.

Comcast is in the middle of an identity crisis right now and we are forced to go along for the ride. They seem to do everything in twos now. Comcast and Xfinity cable services. Xfinity TV and Xfinity TV Player apps to watch different parts of the same catalog of streaming TV. Two different streaming services - On Demand and Streampix. And why do they own NBC?

My head is spinning. Which app do I use to watch which show? Of course then there's Hulu, and Netflix, and....

Did I perhaps, maybe mention how awesome Sling box is?

The SlingPlayer iPhone and iPad apps have both been updated today to support the new 350 and 500 models and their 1080p HD streams. In addition, the apps have dropped in price by 50% and now are only $14.99 each.

We have the Slingbox 500 in house and we'll have a full review for you in the coming days, once we've had a chance to put it through it's paces.