Euro carrier 3 adds Sling video service

European operator 3 today announced a new mobile TV service enabling subscribers to view their home cable service on mobile handsets via the controversial Slingbox device, which streams live and recorded video over the Internet. A pair of new 3 handsets will feature the Sling application, which also controls set-top DVR functions, including pausing live television broadcasts and recording programs; the carrier will offer Sling access in conjunction with its premium X-Services package, with pricing to be announced. 3 will premiere Sling in the U.K. on Dec. 1, with plans to expand into three additional markets early next year.

The Slingbox poses major headaches not just for content producers already facing myriad copyright control woes, but also for wireless and cable providers fearing the emergence of user-controlled streaming content that clogs networks without generating revenue. 3's move is a huge gamble--subscribers are going to love Sling, but what about their content partners?

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