Englewood, Colo. - EchoStar Communications, operator of the DISH Network satellite TV service, has announced that it will pay $380 million to acquire Sling Media, a developer of TV "place-shifting" technology that lets users access premium home TV channels while on the go from Internet-connected devices.

Founded in 2004, Foster City, Calif.-based Sling Media's Slingbox device and SlingPlayer software have won an Emmy award, and are distributed in over 5,000 stores in 11 countries.

The company also recently struck deals to allow Slingbox owners to stream NHL and NFL games.

"With today's increasingly mobile lifestyle, EchoStar's acquisition of Sling Media will allow us to offer innovative and convenient ways for our customers to enjoy their programming on more displays and locations, including TVs, computers and mobile phones, both inside and outside of the home," said EchoStar co-founder and CEO Charlie Ergen.

Related Links:
http://tinyurl.com/22xpan

http://www.echostar.com

http://www.slingmedia.com