Mobile Tuner Brings Live Streaming TV to iOS-Powered Gadgets

To turn iOS-based mobile devices like the iPad, iPod Touch and iPhone (News - Alert) into portable TVs, video software supplier Elgato and mobile TV broadcaster Dyle mobile TV have jointly released the EyeTV mobile accessory. It combines Dyle’s mobile compatible TV tuner for iOS devices with Elgato’s EyeTV app software to bring live streaming TV to iOS-powered mobile devices.

According to Hot Hardware, the accessory connects to iOS devices directly via the dock connector to bring live TV to consumers. The ultra-compact ATSC-Mobile tuner receives mobile TV signals from a miniature antenna for use on-the-go, or a rod antenna, which provides broader range at home or in the office. Consumers can access live TV with the free EyeTV Mobile app, which provides a full range of TV viewing features including pause/ resume capabilities and access to detailed program guide (EPG) information.

In a statement, Salil Dalvi and Erik Moreno, co-general managers of Dyle’s Mobile Content Venture, said, “Together with Elgato, we continue to expand Dyle mobile TV to a broader group of consumers, who can turn their existing smartphones and tablets into a handheld TV set.”

Markus Fest, CEO of Elgato, added, “Users will be able to enjoy a broad range of TV shows and events on-the-go without ever touching their data plans.”

As reported, the compact ATSC-Mobile tuner receives mobile TV signals from a miniature antenna, eliminating the need for an Internet connection or unlimited data plan. With this accessory, users can access live broadcast TV from Dyle partner stations as well as other stations that are broadcasting to mobile in a specific market. The EyeTV Mobile accessory connects to iOS devices with 30-pin connectors (or via an adapter). The accessory works together with the free EyeTV Mobile app. 

The EyeTV Mobile accessory is priced at $99.95 and is available from Elgato's online store, Amazon, and other retailers. EyeTV Mobile app, compatible with the Dyle service, is available at no charge in the App Store. Also, Dyle mobile TV services are available immediately without a subscription fee, which is subject to change at any time (coverage varies in participating markets, not all stations are available in all markets), according to Elgato.

The EyeTV Mobile app requires iOS 5.1 (or newer), and the accessory works with the iPod Touch (fourth generation), iPad, iPad 2, iPad (third generation), iPhone 4, and iPhone 4S. It is also compatible with the newest iOS devices through adapters that connect the accessory, including the iPhone 5, iPod Touch (fifth generation), iPad (fourth generation) and iPad Mini.