SEMA: AT&T CruiseCast Satellite TV
Has AT&T created the ultimate tailgate feature? Not yet, but it’s almost there. AT&T debuted a new mobile satellite television solution at the SEMA show, and while the concept is there, the programming is not.
The launch lineup includes 13 channels including Nickelodeon, USA, the Disney Channel and others we list below. It’s very similar to the factory system Chrysler sports with Sirius Satellite TV, but can work with any installed rear entertainment system. As a sports fan, there is little to no content for me. I’d love to see a college or pro football package in the near future.
Once AT&T’s system, dubbed CruiseCast, is available in spring 2009, professional installation of a small, gray dome-like satellite receiver and a few wires will be handled by a third-party installer.
The future looks good for in-vehicle satellite television, but as this is still an emerging technology you’ll have to pay the price. Before installation, the “dish” will cost you $1,299, plus a monthly subscription fee of $27.95.
Of course, the skeptic in us would suggest tailgaters just buy an HDTV USB device for your laptop, at around $100, which would get you local TV with no service fees to satiate your gameday needs. An integrated system like AT&T’s is still the way to go for families who can afford it.
CruiseCast Channels
- USA
- Bravo
- Cartoon Network
- MSNBC
- CNBC
- Comedy Central
- ABCNews
- Animal Planet
- Discovery Kids
- Nickelodeon
- SciFi
- Travel Channel
- Disney Channel
