AT&T has announced they’ve allowed Sling to make their SlingPlayer Mobile app for iPhone able to use their 3G network. This just in, you’ll need to ask AT&T permission next time you want to use your iPhone…
Skype has also announced they’ll be taking their iPhone app into the realm of 3G before long. Other voice apps have actually beaten them to this feature, but nevertheless, consumers will likely prefer Skype to competitors. Why? Well, SILK audio has something to do with it. The SILK audio codec is about to make its way to the Skype app, and it is supposed to allow for CD quality sound for Skype to Skype calls. And I’m sure the iPad specific app won’t hurt, either.
It’s truly great to learn we’re finally going to be able to use most apps over 3G, specifically Skype and SlingPlayer Mobile. I mean, just think of using SlingPlayer on an iPad just about anywhere over 3G. That would make their app worth $30 easily. I’m hoping this trend continues and results in EyeTV’s app being enabled on 3G once again, as well. Hey Elgato, can we get an iPad app too? Thanks.
I personally think it’s pretty silly that AT&T has so far been able to restrict what apps on the iPhone may use its “unlimited” internet access that come with a standard iPhone data plan. Other phones on the network don’t see these kinds of restrictions, so I feel like the iPhone is being singled out. But I’m not really surprised. Still, I am happy to see that AT&T is finally relenting on their internet usage policies. By the time the iPad is in your, or more importantly, my hands, I think AT&T’s network will be significantly more open. And since the iPad will make use of that network in the US, that’s a good thing. But who knows, maybe AT&T will finally come through on that iPhone tethering plan they promised last year.
If you’re planning to buy an iPad, what would you do if AT&T announced iPhone tethering in a month or two for the iPhone? If the monthly charge is the same, would you prefer to buy a 3G iPad, or just tether it to your iPhone? Would the $130 savings be enough to justify the annoyance of tethering to your iPhone?
Via [ElectricPig and Electronista]
With the Skype app going 3G, I am really hoping the Skype developers will also be allowed to finally incorporate Bluetooth support for their app. It's a big omission that really needs to be there.