One year after DISH Network debuted the Hopper Whole-Home HD DVR at the Consumer Electronics Show, the company is returning to the same stomping grounds with a new and improved version of its innovative digital video recorder.
The newly announced Hopper with Sling offers the same type of functionality as its predecessor, but includes built-in Slingbox features. Last year's model offered Sling features, but in conjunction with the add-on Sling Adapter. This second-gen model has the goods built right into the box, allowing subscribers to watch live and recorded content on any web-enabled tablet, smartphone or computer, from anywhere in the world.
Sling services are available to subscribers at no additional charge. However, you will need the new DISH Anywhere app and a web connection -- sometimes. There's a new feature called Hopper Transfers, which allows users to move content directly from the DVR to an iPad for viewing offline. Just transfer the content in the home via WiFi and the content can go wherever you go, even where there's no web access.
Under the chassis of the Hopper with Sling is a Broadcom 7425 processor and a 2TB hard drive, for storing up to 500 hours of high-def (or 2000 hours of SD) recordings. Other features include built-in WiFi, new multi-player gaming apps, and the ability to "fling" photos, music and videos from a mobile device.
Of course, the Hopper will also keep all of its most popular perks, such as the PrimeTime Anytime and AutoHop commercial-skipping features. Find out more about the original Hopper in our DISH Network Hopper Whole-House DVR Review.
"Last year, Hopper delivered the DISH TV experience to multiple rooms. This year, we top that and deliver it anywhere," said Joseph P. Clayton, DISH president and CEO. "With Hopper, the value equation for pay TV becomes radically different. Customers pay only once for their content and can access it anywhere they choose, in the home, or on the go."
According to DISH, the company will still support the use of the Sling Adapter, with compatible DISH DVR models, including the original Hopper.
DISH Network has yet to announce pricing or availability for the Hopper with Sling, but says that the info should be coming later this month.
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