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Wednesday May 27, 2009
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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 320x240, 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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