I've been asked a few times to explain what control mode does, so here it goes:

Control mode was originally designed as a way for you to rapidly interact with devices like TiVos and DVD players, where you'd spend a portion of your time controlling the device.

Initially, we expected users to manually enter or exit control mode when they wanted to specifically interact with their device. Control mode uses our SlingStream technology to provide a low-latency experience, typically with ~1 second of lag over the LAN, and ~2 seconds over the Internet (your results may vary, but those numbers are typical).

Prior to the product launch, we realized we could use control mode automatically as needed. I know the ~2 seconds can seem like an eternity at times, but if you really consider everything going on to make the whole system work and respond quickly over the always-changing conditions of the Internet, it performs quite well.

We decided to leave the manual control mode toggle for users who still wanted this mode. Personally, I use it in conjunction with fastforward or rewind controls for my TiVo. When I start either control, I immediately go into control mode, then push the play or pause button when I reach the point I am searching for, then exit control mode. My accuracy isn't quite as perfect as on the couch, but one or two instant-replay buttons will get me there a moment later.

Hope this helps!

Best,
Jeremy

ps - I'd love to hear if anyone has some other applications for it...