Orb Networks has launched what it says is the first service to provide free streaming of premium online TV content to smartphones. To get access to the service, users need only make a one-off purchase of the OrbLive app, which costs $10. When launched, users can then stream ad-supported content from Hulu, ABC, CBS, Fox and ESPN directly to their smartphone.
Users can now access full TV show episodes on their mobile phone, which until now, could only be viewed in a user’s computer web browser. In addition, users can also access movies from services including Netflix and Amazon Video on Demand through the OrbLive app, all without any subscription fees.
Users can even view on thier shows on their TV with the Orb TV (VP-1), which sales for $99. (see below)
Orb CEO Joe Costello also claims that the OrbLive app and streaming service has dramatically improved the quality of streaming video so that it optimizes video for the user’s connection speed.
“As the As the connection moves up and down in quality, the video adjusts in real time to deliver the best picture and minimize the dreaded buffering so users always have access to their TV shows, movies and music,” Costello said.
The new version of OrbLive for the iPhone is available immediately. Android users will have to wait a short while to mid-August before the app will be available in the Android Market.
