Charter Communications launched a free mobile application for the iPhone, iPod touch and BlackBerry that lets customers access TV listings, e-mail and other information.
Unlike smartphone apps from other providers, including DirecTV and Comcast, the Charter version at least initially does not allow remote DVR programming.
Charter's iPhone appCurrently, Charter's mobile app offers the ability to view on-demand listings and trailers; find a local service center; view local TV listings; and access headline news and weather information. The app also provides a way to configure the device to access Charter e-mail, as well as contact the operator's customer-service center and view support articles and videos.
"Charter's mobile app brings convenience to our customer's lives," Charter director of online marketing Jim Gallagher said in a statement. "Mobile devices are something that people always have within their reach. With this app, we are making it easy for our customers to have information about Charter services at their fingertips."
Both applications are available for download, for free, via Apple's iTunes Store or BlackBerry App World. In the future, Charter expects the mobile application to include more content streaming and the ability to order services.
Charter also is running a two-week sweepstakes to promote the mobile apps, offering a chance to win one of 100 iPod touch devices. Customer can enter the sweepstakes at Charter's Mobile App through April 9.
Separately, the cable operator recently launched a newly redesigned portal, Charter.net, with new customization tools, simplified access to e-mail and Facebook, real-time TV listings and trailers of movies available on Charter On Demand.