Echostar premieres PocketDish portable video players

Satellite TV service EchoStar earlier this week announced the rollout of its PocketDish portable video player. Available in one of three screen sizes - 2.2" ($329), 4" ($499), 7" ($599) - the PocketDish is designed to allow users of Dish Network DVR receivers to transfer recorded programs from the receiver to the PocketDish for on the go viewing.

The PocketDish, besides being able to play video transferred from Dish Network equipment, can also download or record audio, video and digital photo content from a PC or Mac, digital cameras, mass storage devices, as well as other video or audio sources such as DVD players, camcorders and VCRs.

Every PocketDish comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for up to four hours of video and 12 hours of music playback. Stereo headphones, USB cables, adapter cable, A/V cables, an AC/DC power adapter and a carrying case are included.

"DISH Network is expanding its leadership role in digital video recording by giving consumers portability," said Mark Jackson, president of EchoStar Technologies Corporation. "With PocketDISH, we are again changing the way people watch television. More versatile than ordinary portable DVD or MP3 players, PocketDISH makes it convenient for users to watch popular TV shows or listen to the latest music downloads anywhere."