Sling Media has launched two new models of its Slingbox media streamer, including one spotted at the FCC one month ago. Upgrades to the Slingbox 350 and 500 launched in 2012, the Sling M1 is an entry-level streaming device providing simple remote access to home TV channels, while the SlingTV adds a software update to existing Slingbox 500 hardware to provide smart TV features and to act as an alternative to a set-top box from a cable provider.
The M1 provides video streaming at 1080p, taking in sources from composite video and component cables, but not HDMI. Connecting over Ethernet or Wi-Fi, the device is able to use the Slingplayer for Desktop app for PC and Mac, along with mobile device apps for iOS and Android, and can also stream to Apple TV and Roku in another room.
Slingbox M1
SlingTV is more an update to the software running on the Slingbox 500 than a completely new device. Providing similar functionality to the M1 in terms of streaming out content from pay TV channels, the SlingTV includes a new electronic program guide with content filtering, Rotten Tomatoes ratings for movies, and a scorecard showing results and detailed statistics for various sporting events from Thuuz.
SlingTV
The Slingbox M1 will be going on sale from July 20th for $150. The SlingTV will ship in late-August for $300, though existing Slingbox 500 owners will receive a free software update adding the features at the same time.
