Sling Media has announced that their Slingbox is being discontinued and existing devices will no longer function from the 9th of November 2020.
The company has said that devices will continue to function until the 9th of November 2022, after that date their servers will be taken offline.
Impact on Slingbox Users
The discontinuation of Slingbox marks the end of an era for many users who have relied on the device for streaming their home TV content remotely. Slingbox was a pioneer in the field of place-shifting technology, allowing users to watch their home television from anywhere in the world via an internet connection. This capability was particularly useful for frequent travelers, expatriates, and sports enthusiasts who wanted to keep up with local broadcasts.
Until then, most Slingbox models will continue to work normally, but the number of supported devices for viewing will steadily decrease as versions of the SlingPlayer apps become outdated and/or lose compatibility.
Alternatives to Slingbox
With the discontinuation of Slingbox, users may be looking for alternative solutions to meet their streaming needs. Several options are available in the market that offer similar functionalities:
1. TiVo Stream 4K: This device combines live TV and streaming services in one interface, making it a versatile option for users who want to access both types of content seamlessly.
2. Plex: Plex offers a media server solution that allows users to stream their personal media libraries to various devices. It also includes live TV and DVR capabilities with a compatible tuner and antenna.
3. Tablo: Tablo is an over-the-air (OTA) DVR that lets users record and stream live TV from an antenna to multiple devices. It offers apps for various platforms, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV.
4. HDHomeRun: This networked TV tuner allows users to watch and record live TV on multiple devices within their home network. It supports various platforms and integrates with Plex for additional functionality.
5. Sling TV: Although not a direct replacement for Slingbox, Sling TV is a streaming service that offers live TV channels and on-demand content. It can be a suitable option for users looking to cut the cord and still access live television.
You can find out more details about the Slingbox being discontinued over at the company’s website at the link below.
Source Slingbox, Slashgear
Future of Streaming Technology
The discontinuation of Slingbox reflects broader trends in the streaming technology landscape. As internet speeds have increased and streaming services have proliferated, the need for place-shifting devices like Slingbox has diminished. Consumers now have access to a wide array of streaming options that offer live TV, on-demand content, and cloud DVR services.
Moreover, smart TVs and streaming devices such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV have made it easier than ever to access content from multiple sources in one place. These devices often come with built-in apps for popular streaming services, eliminating the need for additional hardware.
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations in the way we consume media. Cloud-based solutions and AI-driven recommendations are likely to play a significant role in shaping the future of streaming. While Slingbox may be coming to an end, its legacy lives on in the advancements it helped pioneer in the world of digital media consumption.
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