I've read about the forthcoming Android-based Dish box from the FCC info that Dave Zatz uncovered this summer. I assume that "Android-based" means that it runs a customized version of Google's Android TV operating system, with the Google Play app store and Google Assistant on board. I don't know why Dish would opt to use a generic open-source version of Android (i.e. without access to Google apps and services). But adopting Android TV would make a lot of sense, because it would give the Hopper 4 access to WAY more streaming apps. The Hopper 3 only offers apps for Netflix, YouTube and Prime Video among the major video services. But the Google Play app store has Android TV apps for HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV, Peacock, Paramount+, Discovery+, ESPN+, Tubi, Pluto TV, etc. (Although some of those app providers would require a specific agreement with Dish to allow their receivers to download and install their Android TV app from Google Play. So adopting Android TV wouldn't automatically give Dish access to every app that Google distributes.)Well guys, just got confirmation on the new receiver. There are 3 new ones coming out!
- Hopper 4
- Joey 4
- Wifi Joey 4
The Hopper 4 is going to have an Android based system. I'll update more details when I have them!