Dish Goes National with Sling TV Service, Adds AMC Networks

Dish Network’s new Sling TV service is transitioning from its invitation-only beta phase to public availability, starting at $20 per month (various add-ons are available for $5 each per month). Unveiled during CES, the pay TV service features access to channels ranging from ABC Family, CNN and the Disney Channel — to ESPN, TBS and TNT. It also includes access to a VOD library, the WatchESPN app, and content from Maker Studios. Yesterday, the company announced that AMC Networks would become another programming partner.

“In addition to enabling Sling TV to offer the flagship AMC channel on its core $20-per month package, the agreement also covers other channels in the AMC Networks stable, including BBC America, BBC World News, IFC, Sundance TV and WE tv,” reports Multichannel News. “Sling TV noted that it will announce additional info pertaining to package availability of AMC Networks channels ‘in the coming weeks.’”

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“The move signals AMC’s willingness to embrace the Internet as a method of distribution, and could indicate it would be willing to deal with any other potential Internet TV services,” according to Quartz. “AMC has long been a progressive network, eschewing the traditional rules of television and making most of its money through creative distribution methods, and not advertising. For instance, it has made many of its shows available on Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, and iTunes.”

In addition to VOD, Maker Studios content, and WatchESPN, the basic package features ABC Family, Adult Swim, Cartoon Network, CNN, Disney Channel, El Rey Network, ESPN, ESPN2, Food Network, Galavisión, HGTV, TBS, TNT, and the Travel Channel.

Three add-on packs will be offered for an additional $5 each: Sports Extra, Kids Extra and News & Info Extra.

According to Multichannel News, the OTT service supports Android and iOS mobile devices, Roku players and integrated Roku TVs, with support for the Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick coming soon.

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