DISH Network’s whole-home DVR, the Hopper, is an innovative and customer-oriented set-top box that aims to give customers what they want: more programming and less commercials. With the AutoHop feature, which automatically skips commercials in the pre-recorded PrimeTime Anytime content, they’ve given customers exactly what they wanted! Since its introduction though many networks have come out against DISH and their new technology, and CBS even went so far as to deny the Hopper it’s rightful place as CNET’s Best in Show for CES 2013 – CBS cited ongoing legal action and a “conflict” of interest in their obvious maneuver to deny the Hopper it’s rightful recognition.

On the 28th the Consumer Electronics Association put their weight behind DISH and filed with the courts the argument that the 1984 ruling of the Supreme Court in the Sony Corp. of America v. Universal City Studios, Inc. case, known colloquially as the Betamax case, makes the AutoHop feature completely legal. In the landmark Universal Studios sued Sony, who had just introduced the Betamax VCR, for enabling copyright infringement with their recording devices. The Supreme Court ruled in 1984 that recording complete television shows for the purpose of watching later or skipping commercials is not copyright infringement and allowed under Fair Use laws.

Gary Shapiro, president of the CEA, has also been quoted as saying “Innovators have the right to innovate, and consumers have the right to enjoy the products of that innovation… It’s time to salute – not criticize – DISH for giving consumers the commercial-free choice they really want.”

Categories: Equipment & Remotes

Tags: DVR, dvr receiver, Hopper, Joey, whole-home, whole-home DVR