The market for media streaming devices is getting a
little bit crowded, but that isn’t stopping DISH from getting in on the action
with AirTV. Based on Android TV, AirTV is a new streaming device that combines
internet streaming services with over-the-air signals. That is, it combines the
two formats assuming you have the right add-ons.
When you first unbox AirTV, it’ll only be capable of
streaming over the internet. In order to begin streaming local over-the-air
channels, you’ll need to attach an OTA antenna to the device using its AirTV
adapter. That adapter isn’t included with the base AirTV offering, though DISH
is offering a bundle that packages the two together.
Even if you choose to skip OTA streaming, it sounds
like AirTV will still make for a capable internet streaming device. The device
itself comes with Netflix, Sling TV, and YouTube pre-installed, and since it
uses Android TV, you can also buy and rent digital content or download new apps
and games through the Google Play Store. AirTV’s Bluetooth voice remote has
dedicated Netflix, Google, and Sling buttons too, giving you easy access to
those apps.
AirTV is 4K capable as well, assuming the app you’re
using to stream supports 4K content. It’ll connect to your TV through HDMI and
can connect to the internet through either WiFi or an wired Ethernet
connection. AirTV is available now from AirTV.net for US$ 99.99, though the bundle
that includes the OTA adapter will run you US$ 129.99. If you decide that you want
to add OTA capabilities later on, a standalone adapter will cost US$ 39.99, so you
save US$ 10 by purchasing them together.
AirTV doesn’t stop at just offering a
streaming device. Though a service called AirTV Pro, DISH is also offering
antenna installation. You can schedule appointments through AirTV’s website,
and an AirTV technician will be sent to your home to determine the best
location for your antenna and install it as well. Installation costs US$ 99 for an
indoor antenna and $149 for an outdoor one, but for the moment, this service is
only available in 48 cities around the US. Expect that list to grow as we get
further out from AirTV’s launch.
