DISH Network has anounced that Alexa support will be added to the Hopper DVR (all generations) in the first half of 2017. Owners of an Alexa-enabled device like the Amazon Echo will be able to control their Hopper via voice commands like "Go to ESPN," "Play the Warriors game," or "Find comedy movies." You'll be able to search by channel, title, actor, genre, event, and more.
From DISH
DISH customers can soon watch hands-free, voice-controlled TV by pairing a Hopper DVR with the Amazon Echo or Echo Dot, both Alexa devices. DISH is the first TV provider to announce direct compatibility with Amazon Alexa.
"We constantly evaluate emerging technology, like Alexa, and its potential to improve how people watch and control their TVs," said Niraj Desai, DISH vice president of product management. "This allows us to design strategic roadmaps and deliver products that make TV more valuable, at no extra cost to subscribers."
"Amazon is excited to be working with DISH to develop an Alexa skill that offers a hands-free television experience, expanding the ways that our customers can use Alexa devices like Amazon Echo to make their lives easier," said Rob Pulciani, director, Amazon Alexa. "You no longer have to set down your popcorn to change the channel, or spend time searching for what channel the game is on - just ask Alexa to do it for you."
Starting in the first half of this year, users can ask Alexa to navigate, search and quick play TV content on a broadband-connected Hopper DVR (all generations) based on channel, title, actor and genre. Examples of spoken commands and questions are included below.
• "Go to ESPN"
• "Show me football games"
• "Tune to AMC"
• "Play the Warriors game"
• "Change the channel to NBC"
• "Watch Game of Thrones season 1, episode 2"
• "Turn on channel 200"
• "Find Matt Damon movies"
• "Find The Voice"
• "Find comedy movies"
Additional Resources
• DISH Adds YouTube App to Hopper 3 at HomeTheaterReview.com.
• DISH Network Launches New "Skinny" Channel Bundle at HomeTheaterReview.com.
