Verizon's FiOS Remote app expands to iPhone; tablets soon
updated 11:30 am EDT, Tue October 19, 2010
Verizon FiOS Remote hits iOS and due for tablets
Verizon has quietly posted an iOS version of FiOS Remote (free, App Store) as part of a wider push to expand support. The app builds on an earlier DVR-only app and lets anyone with FiOS TV change channels, bring up the guide, order on demand titles or otherwise steer programming. Direct DVR functions are also available, as is a raw keypad for numbers or text.
The app should work with any iPhone or iPod on the same Wi-Fi network as the FiOS service itself. Outside of Apple, device support has also expanded to include about 40 devices that include any Android 2.1 or later phone with Wi-Fi as well as Verizon's BlackBerry lineup.
In detailing its phone plans, Verizon added that tablet versions were coming "soon," but didn't mention details. It has already been developing a live streaming iPad app that now has an official home at Verizon, but Android isn't unofficially expected until at least the Samsung Galaxy Tab debut and possibly the Motorola Stingray in early 2011.
The new iOS support combined with outside rumors and executive non-denials has helped fuel talk of a CDMA iPhone reaching the carrier early next year. Verizon has been the most loyal carrier for Android but has grown more slowly than AT&T, even with multiple high-profile devices.
