Adobe has announced new solutions for content providers that will make it possible to stream Flash video content to iOS devices. The advantage is that the media server will detect what type of mobile device is accessing content and deliver it automatically in a compatible format.

When it comes to the iPad, this format is Apple's HTTP Live Streaming (HLS). Actual Flash software will never officially make it onto an iOS device, and Adobe is anxious to stem the flow of companies ditching Flash for HTML5. With Adobe's Flash Media Server 4.5 content providers can deliver Flash content to various mobile devices including iPads and iPhones using the same content stream.

The latest streaming video application for Apple iOS brings premium HBO content directly to mobile devices. Dubbed HBO GO, the app features access to HBO original television shows and new release movies for existing HBO subscribers. The only catch is that your cable provider must also participate in the service.

Current shows including True Blood and Boardwalk Empire are joined by older series such as Deadwood and the Sopranos. Besides every full episode for each original series, HBO GO provides access to extras and bonus features like behind-the-scenes specials.

iPad owners will be happy to know that the Digital AV Adapter announced with the iPad 2 also works with the first generation iPad. This simple cable adds HDMI output to the tablets via the 30-pin dock connector port. Some were disappointed when the original iPad was revealed to lack HDMI output in January of last year.

Apple did offer the Dock Connector to VGA Adapter, which made it possible to feed 1024 x 768 resolution (4:3 aspect) video to an external device. This accessory is geared towards those making presentations on projectors and the like.

The iPad 2 will support full video mirroring with the Digital AV Adapter. This means that anything you see on the iPad 2 screen you will see on your HDMI connected HDTV or other device.

The original iPad also supports HDMI out, but without full video mirroring. Apple has restricted video out to the following list of applications on the original iPad:

Videos
Photos - Slideshow playback only
YouTube
Keynote
Safari - Video content on webpages
Netflix

Yes, the Digital AV Adapter announced with the iPad 2 will work with the original iPad. However, not all features of the adapter will operate with the original iPad.

Video mirroring will only function with the iPad 2, and the iPad 2 will support up to 1080p resolution HD video. The original iPad will only output 720p HD video using the Digital AV Adapter.

You may be wondering if your Slingbox will stream video using the SlingPlayer Mobile for iPad app. Before you spend $29.99 on the app, check the recommended configuration:

1. SlingPlayer Mobile for iPad 1.0
2. iPad running iOS 4.1 or later
3. Slingbox SOLO with version 2.1.110 or later firmware OR Slingbox PRO-HD with version 2.1.80 or later firmware

[Sling Media: How to upgrade your Slingbox firmware]

DISH Remote Access for iPad makes it possible for DISH subscribers to watch streaming live and recorded television from anywhere. The app includes a searchable program guide, full-featured DVR manager, and a virtual remote control. Recordings can be scheduled, watched, and deleted entirely on-the-go.

DISH Remote Access 2.2.88 was released in the App Store on November 30 for free. In order to work, the app requires iOS 4.2 and some supplemental hardware connected to your DISH Network receiver.

Apple's new AirPlay feature, which allows wireless streaming of video from your iPad to your Apple TV, requires the 2nd generation Apple TV. AirPlay is not compatible with the 1st generation Apple TV / ATV1.

Now all you need to watch live television on your iPad is to open the Safari web browser. A new service called FilmOn makes it possible to watch broadcast stations on iPads and other Apple iOS devices from anywhere. NBC, ABC, Fox, CBS and others are just some of the stations accessible through the web site, FilmOn.com. Some stations can also be watched on your computer's web browser or with an application download.

No app is required on the iPad. Local stations from Los Angeles are currently available entirely for free. Right now the streaming web video service charges a $9.95 monthly subscription fee to unlock additional stations. The networks are suing, of course.

Hulu's long-awaited iPad app and premium subscription service is becoming a reality in the coming months. The service will launch by invitation only for starters, and later will be expanded to the general public and to cover more devices including the Xbox 360 and PS3. The streaming video subscription to Hulu Plus runs $9.99 per month.

This provides access to thousands of streaming television shows including complete seasons and historic reruns from the 80s and 90s. Users can sign up for the invitation only phase and the Hulu iPad app will be launched in the App Store. There are several shows available free of charge in the Hulu app and reviews so far on video quality are positive.