Mobile satellite television and audio in the car took a step forward with the nationwide introduction of the AT&T CruiseCast, a collaboration between AT&T and RaySat Broadcasting Corp.
Featuring 22 satellite TV networks and 20 satellite radio channels, AT&T CruiseCast service delivers real-time programming to automobiles on their existing rear-seat entertainment systems.
The channel lineup (PDF) includes TV programming from companies like CNN, Discovery, Lifetime and ESPN Mobile. Channel 51 and above are satellite radio channels programmed by Music Choice and devoted to formats such as Solid Gold, as well as channels devoted to the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, classical music and R&B.
To deliver the signal, a small roof antenna receives the satellite signals and delivers that to the CruiseCast video and audio receiver mounted in the trunk of the vehicle.
The receiver provides video and audio connections to the appropriate vehicle systems, such as rear-seat entertainment, vehicle audio system, etc. The video receiver is connected to the screens of the existing rear-seat entertainment system.
The companies say their service overcomes line-of-sight obstacles such as overpasses, buildings, trees or tunnels to deliver television programming to cars, non-commercial trucks and SUVs.
AT&T CruiseCast service is available through authorized installers and aftermarket-car retail outlets. The list price of the antenna and receiver combined is $1,299 and the monthly subscription fee is $28.
Catalog and Internet retailer Crutchfield also is featuring the product.