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Cable Technology Feature Article

January 07, 2010

DISH Network, NeuLion Partner for IPTV International Channel Distribution

By Susan J. Campbell, TMCnet Contributing Editor


DISH Network L.L.C. and NeuLion (News - Alert), Inc., an end-to-end IPTV service provider of live and on-demand international, sports and variety programming delivered via broadband, have announced a multiyear partnership that will include the distribution of certain DISH Network international channels through NeuLion’s IPTV (News - Alert) service.

This partnership with NeuLion is expected to enhance DISH Network’s international programming offering by providing consumers without access to satellite TV the ability to view select DISH Network international channels through their IPTV service.
 
“As the leading multichannel video provider of international channels in the U.S., we are excited to enhance our nationwide distribution of international content to include IPTV,” said Chris Kuelling, vice president of International Programming for DISH Network, in a statement.
 
“We know some of our customers prefer to watch their favorite channels via satellite and others prefer broadband delivery, and we are pleased that we can now offer a solution that fits their specific needs,” Kuelling added.

In the IPTV space, NeuLion has built a strong reputation providing end-to-end, multi-platform service that allows the delivery of live and on-demand content to the TV, PC and Mobile devices. This universal platform is designed to connect viewers globally. Service components include encoding, personalization, delivery, registration, monetization, support and reporting tools.
 
“We see distinct synergies between our respective television distribution services and believe that DISH Network customers will benefit from the further reach provided by a broadband offering,” said Chris Wagner, executive vice president of NeuLion. “We believe that the match of our technology with DISH Network's international programming rights will greatly benefit ethnic communities in the United States.”

With more than 180 international channels in more than 28 languages, DISH Network offers the most international programming in the country. The company plans to launch this new IPTV service early in 2010.

Last fall, DISH Network was in the headlines as the company’s service was set to be offered to small and medium businesses by Windstream (News - Alert) Corporation. According to Windstream officials, business customers would now be able access the digital channels with attractive pricing. Packages feature 50 to 150 digital channels and can help any business attract more customers.

In other IPTV news, there has been some speculation over the prospect of a telco purchasing DISH or its DirecTV (News - Alert) competitor in order to firm up their place in the entertainment video space. Will such speculations become true talks in the industry? Only time will tell.

Susan J. Campbell is a contributing editor for TMCnet and has also written for eastbiz.com. To read more of Susan’s articles, please visit her columnist page.

Edited by Kelly McGuire