Sling preps mobile TV viewer for iPhone

Sling Media today made official that it has been developing a version of its SlingPlayer Mobile software for the Apple iPhone. The software is described as a "proof of concept" developed using jailbroken iPhones but offers much of the same functionality as the released applications for Symbian S60, Windows Mobile, and other cellphone platforms. Users can navigate a Slingbox network streaming hub connected to a home TV feed and choose channels through a visual guide as well as stop or skip through playback.

Sling VP of Product Marketing & Product Management, Ted Malone, tells Macworld that Sling Media is creating both a version using the unofficial installation tools as well as one that will be available through the App Store as an approved application. The iPhone is a fantastic platform to develop for with a "very good quality" screen as well as graphics and CPU performance that are "the best of the current class of smartphones," according to the magazine.

The current version depends on Wi-Fi for its data access but should run "acceptably well" over 3G cellular Internet access should Apple support the technology.

A demonstration by Sling of SlingPlayer Mobile will take place 10AM local time Monday at the Starbucks at 120 4th Street, across from the Metreon shopping center.