DirecTV iPad App Update Adds Streaming On Demand

DirecTV has rolled out a new app for the iPad that gives users the ability to stream movies on demand, from anywhere that has a data connection. The app gives users unfiltered access to titles from HBO and Showtime, along with some original DirecTV programming as well as other pay TV networks. The new app also integrates social connectivity, allowing users to share what they're watching.

DirecTV, like a number of other cable and satellite providers, already had an iPad app that allowed subscribers to stream select live TV content. But the catch is that users need to be connected to their home WiFi network – and that network has to be powered by the same company as their TV service. In other words, the app is treated like a second cable or satellite box, not an on-the-go service.

The new DirecTV mobile offering takes it a step further, but of course the content that can be streamed from anywhere is on-demand videos, not live TV. In addition, the selection only includes full-length movies, not TV show episodes. Cable and satellite companies are continuing to be extremely conversative when it comes to streaming content, but they do realize they need to offer something in order to compete with the likes of Netflix and Hulu.

[via VentureBeat]