The ability to time shift and place shift the shows that we love on TV is a big deal to many consumers. The DVR is one of the most important electronic devices in many homes. Place shifting technology like the Sling Box from Sling Media is also important to many TV fans allowing them to send the media across the internet to other devices.
Sling Media today announced the new Sling Touch Control 100 for TV service providers. The new device is a touch screen controller with an interface based on the SlingGuide electronic program guide. The controller is able to interact with SlingGuide DVRs and most line of sight AV components.
The device allows the viewer to view the programming guide on the controller and offers improved capability for viewers to find programs to watch now and at future dates. The controller promises to let viewers find new programs that they may not have known were available otherwise.
“As the volume of compelling television content increases, it is becoming increasingly difficult for consumers to search and navigate available content,” said John M. Paul, executive vice president of Products at Sling Media. “The Sling Touch Control 100 and SlingGuide changes the way viewers interact with programming and helps them discover and manage programs that they might miss using existing on-screen electronic programming guides.”
The controller has a 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 272 x 480. Power comes from a lithium-ion battery that is charged while the controller is sitting in its cradle. In addition to showing the program guide, the controller also allows the user to pause, fast forward, and control all other aspects of their DVR. When the device will debut for consumers is unknown.
