1 June 2006
An innovative device that has reached European shops could offer consumers a new way of watching digital television services.
The Slingbox device allows watchers to tune their computers and laptops, so that they become in effect mobile televisions.
It is simply plugged into a set top box and then transmits the television output over an internet connection, meaning it can then be picked up and relayed on any computer.
The UK has received the gadget slightly before the rest of the continent and it retails for £179.99.
It has an PAL analogue/digital tuner integrated into it, meaning viewers can have Freeview output streamed to their computer. Slingbox is also compatible with set top boxes from Sky, ntl and Telewest.
Its developer Sling Media says that the device means that consumers need never be without their television again. It may also be important in the light of the forthcoming World Cup.
"When the game is on, England fans with a Slingbox can watch the home team from no matter where they are: half way around the world, stuck at work or simply around the home," said Blake Krikorian, co-founder and chief executive of Sling Media.
Compare digital TV packages from Sky, Freeview, ntl and Telewest on uSwitch.com to find your best digital TV package
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