Elgato has detailed the upcoming release of its HDHomeRun Prime App for the iPad that will allow users to stream and record live premium cable TV. It works together with the Silicondust HDHomeRun Prime line of CableCard-enabled network tuners and requires a cable TV subscription. A Wi-Fi network is also required, and all content is restricted to standard definition content, though the app downsamples HD content to make sure it’s still accessible.
The home PC is not involved in the equation, so it doesn’t need to be running. The set-up allows users to record programs directly to an iPad and then transfer those recordings from the tablet to a Mac or PC. Only unprotected cable TV channels and content can be streamed, however. Verizon FiOS and Comcast offer a large part of their video in the format. Unencrypted digital cable TV (Clear QAM) channels also work.
The app also lets users pause live TV. The required HDHomeRun Prime costs $250. The app lists for $17.99 in the App Store.
