i.TV
is one of my favourite iPhone applications. You might think, well
what's the big deal it's just a TV guide right? Wrong. If you're like
me and currently use Rogers you know exactly how painful it can be to
scan the guide on that VCR sized cable box. I'm not sure how it's
possible that a company that has a virtual monopoly on the
cable/vod/broadband business, making billions of dollars can be content
with the service it's providing it's customers. The guide interfaces
for most cable/satellite dealers have horrible usability and sluggish
response times at best. There are no visual cues, poorly written
synopsis, and the longer titles are truncated so you have to guess at
the title.
So along comes i.TV, a great solution...even their ads are well integrated.
When
you first launch this app it will synch up your iPhone via postal code
and service provider to bring you the relevant programming information.
This can take a minute but it's a one time process. The guide is
displayed by title and thumbnail images so you can immediately
recognize what you are looking for, as well as the channel, rating,
reviews and a well written detailed synopsis. If available you can also
view a sample clip or trailer.
i.TV also allow
you to search movies and theatres based on your location using the
iPhone's GPS feature. It also offers tons of great sorting features,
email alerts, reviews, search, share and customizable features (you
need to sign up for a free account). Using TiVo DVR? Then you can set
to record it instantly. Got a Netflix account? Instantly add your
selection to your queue. Now if it can only replace my outdated cable
box...if anyone from Rogers is reading this please please contact i.TV
for help!
