AT&T on Monday announced an iPhone app for the Apple ecosystem that allows users to download and watch selected shows on its U-verse DVR system.

Like the rival app from DISH Networks, the AT&T U-verse app can also function as a remote control. But for customers who own the U300 package or better, users will be able to stream shows to their iPhone.

Oddly enough, AT&T did not explicitly state that owners of an Apple iPad, which uses the same OS, could take advantage of the new app. The iPhone app only uses the Wi-Fi connection to download the content, not the 3G radio.

AT&T also did not reveal the names of the shows customers would be able to stream; only that they would be from "several popular networks". Sprint TV, a dedicated service built into several Sprint phones, also provides an ongoing mix of shows, both prime-time content and reruns.

"We're making it possible for you to watch TV shows on your iPhone at no extra charge. It's just one more valuable and innovative feature available on U-verse TV," said David Christopher, chief marketing officer at AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets, in a statement. "Our U-verse multi-screen promise is now a reality for millions of U-verse TV customers, with content available on U-verse TV, U-verse Online, and today, U-verse Mobile. No cable provider comes close to matching the cross-platform experience we're delivering today, and we'll continue to add unique features that further integrate these screens."

New U-verse TV customers and iPhone owners that order AT&T U-verse U300 or U450 will receive a $75 iTunes gift card, AT&T said.