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Sling TV Launches Cloud DVR for Cord Cutters

By Rachel Cericola

Cutting the cord can be difficult. Not only do you lose access to a lot of your favorite shows, but you typically lose your DVR as well. Sling TV is looking to replace both.

The streaming service just announced plans to launch a cloud DVR. Of course, there are DVR options for cord cutters, but this easy solution will allow subscribers to record multiple programs simultaneously and have recordings available across multiple devices. Plus, users will be able to pause, rewind, or fast-forward through that recorded content. Also, the company made a point of saying that there will be no 28-day restriction on recordings -- which seems to be a little jab at the PlayStation Vue.

Of course, it's nice to be able to watch TV on your time, instead of having to live by the TV schedule. That said, we should point out that the announcement says that DVR functionality will not be available on all Sling TV channels. Currently, the company has yet to say which ones will not be eligible for the goods.

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At launch, the Sling TV cloud DVR will offer up to 100 hours of storage at no charge. Photo: Sling TV.

So what can cord cutters watch and record? Sling TV offers live sports, lifestyle, family, news, and information channels, as well as Video-On-Demand entertainment and much more, both at home and on the go -- and for only $20 per month. That fee will get you the company's basic "Best of Live TV" package, which features over 30 channels, including ESPN, TNT, TBS, AMC, Adult Swim, Disney Channel, Food Network, HGTV, Cartoon Network, and others. Since launching early last year, the company has added more channels and more add-on packs, which have additional channel options for sports fans, families, movie lovers, and more.

"Unlike other OTT services, we're delivering a true cloud DVR with no 28-day restriction on your recordings, marking another win for Sling TV and our customers," said Roger Lynch, CEO of Sling TV. "Two years ago we became the first live OTT provider, and we continue to innovate and bring the best experience to our customers."

Sling TV's cloud DVR program will launch in beta on Roku boxes with up to 100 hours of cloud DVR storage at no extra charge. Sling TV plans to use feedback from the beta program to develop other DVR features, which will include the ability to upgrade storage space and protect recordings. The invitation-only beta program is expected to start next month, with support for additional devices to follow.

To help push the cloud DVR program, Sling TV is offering a free Roku Streaming Stick to customers when they sign up for a month of Best of Live TV service. Some restrictions may apply, so make sure to read the fine print.

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