AT&T U-verse Total Home DVR plays back recorded shows from any TV

AT&;T on Tuesday launched its Total Home DVR service for U-verse customers, allowing recordings to be played back from any TV in the home. Using an IP network, the content is no longer restricted to playback just on the TV where it is recorded. Total Home DVR can play back four recorded standard definition shows at once or three in high definition. Up to 133 hours of SD programs can be recorded or 37 hours of HD. Series of shows are organized into a single tab from the first menu to improve the content management.

DVR recordings can be scheduled remotely using a PC or mobile phone with internet connection. Other features of the system include access to flickr.com picture albums or Yahoo Games, and a customizable bar to stream weather, financial, or sports information. Business contact information can be obtained from the TV using yellowpages.com.

U-verse Total Home DVR initially will be introduced to Bay Area customers free of charge, with expansion plans to include all U-verse customers by the end of the year. New equipment is not needed for existing customers, the service will be added through software updates. U-verse Voice digital home phone service will now be offered to Bay Area customers as well.