In the coming weeks, the iPad will become more than just a Web-surfing, movie-watching, document-editing mobile device. TiVo on Monday announced that it will soon release an application that will transform the tablet computer into a fully-functioning remote control.
The upcoming TiVo app for the iPad will allow users to do a whole lot more than change channels. The free application is designed to enable TiVo owners to search, browse, explore and share content without ever having to pause a live or recorded show that is running on their television.
iPad users who download the app can search for future programming from the on-screen guide, explore recommendations, schedule and manage recordings and share and receive comments from Facebook and Twitter, all while watching TV. The new software will allow users to control any content that is available through broadcast TV, Netflix and Amazon Video on demand.
"We're bringing TiVo's innovative user interface from the TV directly to your fingertips, taking your TV viewing experience to a whole new level," Jim Denney, vice president and general manager of product marketing for TiVo, said in a statement.
"The new TiVo Premiere App takes our best in class user-interface and brings it to iPad's stunning, high-resolution display and innovative Multi Touch interface," he added.
The application is expected to become available on the iTunes App Store in the next few weeks. Although the app can be downloaded free of charge, there is one caveat: iPad owners will need a TiVo Premiere or TiVo Premiere XL box for it to work.
The TiVo Premiere costs $99.99 with a one-year commitment of $19.99 per month, while the upgraded version is priced at $299.99 with the same mandated monthly fee. As of now, TiVo is not planning on launching the app for any other iOS devices, including the iPhone or iPod Touch.
Beecher Tuttle is a TechZone360 contributor. He has extensive experience writing and editing for print publications and online news websites. He has specialized in a variety of industries, including health care technology, politics and education. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.
Edited by Chris DiMarco
