Sling Media’s content shifting technology has long been popular with consumers, and made a splash earlier this year when it was integrated into Dish Network’s Hopper set-top box. A new media gateway from ARRIS Group will also offer Sling’s functionality, the two companies announced last week. The new box will be available in the fourth quarter of next year.
Sling Media allows consumers to view content they have stored on remote devices, inside or outside of the home. According to ARRIS, its Media Streamer 4000 box will use Sling technology to give subscribers the capability to watch live and recorded content on tablets, smartphones, and other mobile devices, regardless of location. ARRIS says the box, which also will allow consumers access to 4 simultaneous HD channels, in addition to recorded content, will be available to service providers that use the ARRIS Whole Home Solution.
Sling Media says that a recent customer survey showed that Sling users most commonly use the service to watch live sports and prime time shows. The survey also showed that nearly two-thirds use their Slingbox frequently, with three-quarters of usage taking place away from home. Apple tablets and smartphones are the preferred devices for accessing content through Sling Media, according to the company.
The integration of Sling technology into another device signals further recognition of consumers’ desires to view content in not just the time and place of their choosing, but also on the device of their choice. Just as state and local area transport access (LATA) boundaries have faded in relevance for the voice market, it appears that technological innovations and consumer demand may now be having similar impacts on the designated market areas (DMAs) that are, at least for now, very important to broadcasters.
