DISH Opens Mobile API for TV Developers

DISH Network is looking to enhance mobile integration for its TV subscribers, opening a third-party application programming interface (API) to developers.

Trusted partners can access many of the same second-screen APIs that DISH uses for its own DISH Explorer mobile app. Coders can, for instance, write mobile applications that offer new ways for customers to discover content across the program guide, DVR recordings or on demand. Or, tablet and smartphone apps can be created to control the Hopper Whole-Home HD DVR with functions like changing channels, setting recordings and playing back DVR and on-demand shows.


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“DISH wants to evolve the Hopper experience for customers and foster innovation among the developer community,” said Vivek Khemka, senior vice president of product management for DISH. “DISH already has its own suite of mobile apps designed to work with the Hopper, but we want to see what other experiences trusted partners might create if given the opportunity. By tapping into a deeper well of creativity, I’m confident we will discover ideas we’ve never dreamed of to improve upon an already unique customer experience.”

Thuuz Sports is the first developer to incorporate DISH’s APIs into an app for Android or iPhones, which uses real-time analytics and social signaling to alert viewers to relevant sporting events. By pairing the Thuuz app on mobile devices with Hopper, DISH subscribers can automatically jump to the games they’re interested in on their TV. The Thuuz Sports app also enables one-click recording of live or upcoming matches on the Hopper if a customer is away from their TV. Fans can customize the app based on their favorite teams and sports leagues, including NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, NCAAF and NCAABB.

 “Our goal is to make sure sports enthusiasts never miss an exciting game,” said Warren Packard, CEO and co-founder of Thuuz. “Our apps already alert users to the best matches in their favorite sports. Integrating with DISH’s Hopper receivers lets us take viewers immediately into the live action. For those times when they can’t watch the game live, we make sure they can record it to enjoy later.”