Sling Media, SlingPlayer Mobile app, which allows users to view their home TV content on a mobile device, has been granted permission to run on AT&T's 3G mobile broadband network in the US.

Sling says that it originally developed its wireless app to make efficient use of 3G network bandwidth and to conserve the finite wireless spectrum available to the wireless industry. Many analysts have to date noted that the lack of support from AT&T until now was an indication of concern that supporting Sling would cause bottlenecks on the telco's network.

The telco says that the announcement demonstrates its commitment to fostering the development of a wide range of mobile applications for smartphones, quick-messaging devices and other mobile devices. AT&T revealed that it has been testing the app since mid December 2009 and has concluded that that the optimized app can run on its 3G network. The SlingPlayer Mobile app will be available for use immediately on AT&T's Wi-Fi network, claimed to be the largest in the US with more than 20,000 hotspots. AT&T will also provide developers with wireless network optimisation requirements for video and other applications by the end of the first quarter via its AT&T Developers Program website.

"Just as we've worked with Sling Media in this instance, we look forward to collaborating with other developers so that mobile customers can access a wider, more bandwidth-sensitive, and powerful range of applications in the future," commented Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "Collaboration with developers like Sling Media ensures that all apps are optimised for our 3G network to conserve wireless spectrum and reduce the risk that an app will cause such extreme levels of congestion that they disrupt the experience of other wireless customers. Our focus continues to be on delivering the nation's most advanced mobile broadband experience and giving our customers the widest possible array of mobile applications."

"We're delighted with AT&T's decision to approve the SlingPlayer Mobile app on their 3G network," added John Gilmore, senior vice president and general manager at Sling Media. "SlingPlayer Mobile on AT&T's 3G network gives customers the best experience possible for watching their home TV while on the go."