Roger Fingas
A fifth TV provider, AT&T's DirecTV, has quietly appeared as an option for people trying single sign-on support in the iOS 10.2 or tvOS 10.1 betas.
Single sign-on allows users to authenticate with a TV provider once and have it recognized with every app hosting the same content. Those apps have to be updated with support as well, but a number will likely be ready by the time iOS 10.2 and tvOS 10.1 go live in December.
Until now, only Dish, Sling TV, Hotwire, and GVTC Communications have been listed as compatible providers. Others — like Comcast, Spectrum, and PlayStation Vue — will have to come onboard for the new technology to have meaningful reach.
Single sign-on was originally promised months ago, but was delayed for reasons unknown. When it does become widely available, though, Apple will also be premiering a new "TV" app, making it easier to find and browse shows. Siri will let people jump straight into live streams, as long as necessary apps are installed.
Malcolm Owen
Christine McKee
Charles Martin
William Gallagher
Amber Neely
8 Comments
Need Vue added by launch.
Now that I have that on AppleTV, there is no need for Sling or any cable box at all (not that I've had a cable box for years anyway).
I gotta be honest: It is bizarre to me that the best Lite Cable package available on AppleTV and iOS is coming to me with the Playstation brand on it. I have a heck of a time explaining it to the non-tech savvy.
Comcast is MIA, so sad.