A few weeks ago DISH Network launched a new DVR feature that allows viewers to skip commercials on recorded programs. According to DISH, “AutoHop is an extension of the Hopper’s PrimeTime Anytime capability, the exclusive feature that allows viewers, with one click, to record all of the primetime TV programming on ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC in HD” “A viewer can watch a show with the AutoHop option commercial-free starting at 1 a.m. ET, after a show has been recorded to the Hopper’s PrimeTime Anytime library. Prior to that, the Hopper’s 30-second "hop forward" feature continues to work for same-day viewing.” Well needless to say, this raised the ire of the networks, and the lawsuits hit the fan. CBS, NBC, and FOX filed suit against DISH. CBS said that AutoHop “takes existing network content and modifies it in a manner that is unauthorized and illegal.” DISH fired back with a countersuit. "Consumers should be able to fairly choose for themselves what they do and do not want to watch," said David Shull, DISH senior vice president of Programming. "Viewers have been skipping commercials since the advent of the remote control; we are giving them a feature they want and that gives them more control."
There’s an interesting side story to this slugfest. DISH isn’t happy about the networks cozying up to the likes of Hulu and other online outlets. Shull told the LA Times that online distribution “devalues the live value of that content to my customer.” The Times notes that DISH even removed AMC from its lineup because “the cable network’s programming can be found on other platforms soon after its initial airing.” So to better compete with online rivals, DISH unleashed AutoHop.
Here’s another twist. It looks like DISH’s Sling adapter is now lined up in the networks’ sights as well. Sling Media devices stream whatever comes through your cable or satellite receiver to internet connected devices. According to FOX, the Sling adapter "redistributes and streams FOX’s programming over the Internet in violation of copyright law and DISH’s agreements with FOX. In doing so, it competes unfairly with licensed providers such as iTunes and Amazon."
