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So, the free SkyPortal app is indeed a cut down version of Sky Safari. The splash screen says "Powered by Sky Safari 4". I've said cut down, but it could in fact be a adaptation of Sky Safari (basic), I'm only familiar with Sky Safari Pro.
Besides a smallish object database it is missing a few features, display options such as RA/Dec or Alt-Az grid on the sky map, or the hot corner access to field-of-view and mag limit settings.
The app contains most of the object info and accompanying textual descriptions found in Sky Safari, and adds Celestron exclusive audio commentary (probably taken from some of their earlier gadgets).
The telescope control feature exclusively supports NexStar Evolution mounts, and there the app adds a few features over stock Sky Safari (even Pro). The app can perform a number of operations usually found in hand controllers, such as star alignment, tracking rate, slew rate, backlash compensation, power management etc.
I couldn't get it to talk to my SkyFi connected to the HEQ5Pro, but there might be a simple solution to this, like guessing the correct ad hoc network name.
In summary, the app could be useful even for people who don't own NexStar Evolution mounts and just need a basic planetarium app for their iPad. It could also serve as a free preview of the Sky Safari look and feel.
It definitely seems that the era of wired hand controllers for controlling telescope mounts is making way to an all wireless, tablet or smart phone based age.
Cheers
Steffen.
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