May 27
AT&T has begun to test its upcoming CruiseCast satellite-based in-car TV system with small groups of customers, according to Autoblog. The idea–we hope–is to offer live television channels (along with radio) to passengers on long trips while the driver keeps his or her eyes on the road.
The report said that AT&T is employing some new RaySat technology that overcomes line-of-sight obstacles and underpasses while on the road. The system will cost $1,299 with installation–expensive by Gearlog gadget standards, but in the ballpark for custom car entertainment options. Monthly service will cost $28, according to the report.
The system will launch in June with 22 television channels–19 more than what Sirius offers with its Backseat TV option–with more to follow soon after. As we reported in January, the CruiseCast system broadcasts 320×240, H.264 video at a 500 Kbits/sec data rate–twice that of the ICO mim or Qualcomm’s MediaFLO for cell phones. The move comes as both GM and Chrysler roll out options for in-car wireless Internet access.
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