DISH Network to Boost Home Management with Hopper Device

Leading satellite TV operator in the U.S., DISH Network Corp. (DISH), recently announced plans to combine its popular Hopper Whole-Home HD DVR device with leading home automation systems.

Apart from its enhanced business tie with Control4, DISH has collaborated with three renowned home management solution makers, namely, Crestron, Savant and AMX, to deliver its Hopper DVR service.

As part of these collaborations, DISH Network will be sharing the Hopper Application Programming Interface (API) with these providers. The home monitoring device will be powered with the Hopper platform, thus allowing customers to easily manage TV programs.

The house monitoring products and services will offer users touch screen devices which will allow the monitoring of functions at home from outside. The users will also be able to execute such operations using Apple Inc.’s (AAPL) iPad/iPhone applications.

Along with these facilities, customers will also enjoy a 24/7 service of police and fire protection along with latest weather, sports and traffic reports. Furthermore, users will be able to select TV programs for kids and also control room temperature through a single device.

The home monitoring solution business in the U.S. is gaining strong momentum. Most industry analysts believe that the solutions will cover nearly 20% of the total number of households in the U.S. by 2015.

Hence, DISH Network’s plan to integrate its Hopper device into home automation systems will not only expand its reach but will also boost its top line while moving ahead.

Currently, DISH Network carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).

Stocks That Warrant a Look

Other better-ranked stocks in the sector which are worth a look include Cablevision Systems Corporation (CVC) and Comcast Corporation (CMCSK). Both the stocks carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).