TVSquad

If you thought all Sling Media had up its sleeve for CES was a new HD Slingbox and SlingPlayer software for BlackBerry, boy were you wrong. Today we've got word that Sling is updating its PC software, adding a cable modem to its lineup, and preparing to launch the much anticipated SlingCatcher during the second quarter of 2008.

SlingModem

Last August, we found some photos of a new Sling product on the FCC's site. At first it looked like a standard low-end Slingbox without support for HD video. But astute observers noticed that the new device had a built-in cable modem. As it turns out, Sling Media is calling the new device the SlingModem, and the goal is to partner with cable operators to provide SlingModems. There are no plans at the moment to sell SlingModems directly to consumers. Nobody's ready to announce any deals yet, but considering Sling was recently acquired by Echostar, it's interesting to see the company releasing a cable modem.SlingPlayer 2.0

During the first quarter of this year, the company plans to release SlingPlayer 2.0 as a free update to new and existing Slingbox customers. The software update will add an electronic program guide showing your TV lineup, and will also include a 60 minute video buffer letting you pause, rewind, and fast forward video without sending a signal over the internet to your personal video recorder at home. The software also includes the new Clip+Sling feature that will let users share brief video clips online with friends.

No word on when we'll see SlingPlayer 2.0 for Mac or mobile devices.

SlingCatcher

We've been waiting for the SlingCatcher for a while. And it looks like the wait's not over quiet yet. Sling Media plans to release this device which will let users stream internet video to a TV (which makes it kind of the opposite of a typical Slingbox) during the second quarter of 2008. And it's finally got a price: $250. The company will also be releasing the SlingLink Wireless adapter at the same time for $50. The 802.11g USB adapter will make it easier to use the SlingCatcher without running cables all over your living room.