Company tries 'social' pricing

Peel's iOS platform is being upgraded to control home entertainment systems, the company has revealed. At the moment, an official app simply serves as an enhanced program guide, recommending programs based on feedback. An update coming this week should ease setup, improve performance and allow faster access to more top picks.

Interaction with entertainment systems will be made possible through the Peel universal control, which includes a special Ethernet adapter -- bridging a router and a power outlet -- and a second accessory known as the "fruit." The latter sits within line-of-sight of a person's AV gear, and allows an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch running the Peel app to start a show with a tap. Compatible hardware should include the likes of TVs, receivers and DVD/Blu-ray players, as well as set-tops like the Roku, TiVo and Apple TV.

The Peel hardware should available at retail "in a matter of weeks," according to the company. In an unusual arrangement, an small group of early shoppers will have to outbid each other on the Peel website to get the product. Once that stock is sold out, the company will determine final pricing and expand shipments to retail and online stores.

by MacNN Staff