Netflix, Dish Network Partnership Means Easier Access to Movies and Shows

Nexflix Inc. announced that it has teamed up with Dish Network Corp. Now, all of Dish's latest set-top boxes will have the Netflix's app integrated so customers can easily stream movies or shows on their television.

The app will be available for all "second-generation" Hopper digital video recorders that were released in February 2013. Dish has not disclosed how many customers own those boxes. Dish customers without the hopper who want the Netflix app will have to get a replacement.

"Pairing Netflix with Hopper represents the consolidation of two incredible video experiences," said Vivek Khemka, Dish's senior vice president of product management, in a statement.

"Our vast library of TV shows and movies, combined with Dish's lineup of live television content, gives customers easy access to a wide variety of complementary programming," added Bill Holmes, global head of business development at Netflix in a statement.

Netflix has been working on deals with U.S. cable, phone and satellite-TV providers for some time now. In 2013, the company had negotiated out provisions in its preexisting contracts with entertainment companies in order to make deals with the other services easier.

However, U.S. providers have been wary about incorporating a Netflix app to their set-top boxes out of fear that their premium and on-demand services will no longer make revenue.

This contract is Netflix's first deal with a major pay-TV operator within the United States. Prior to this deal, Netflix had deals with smaller providers, such as Atlantic Broadband and Suddenlink Communications. Netflix has had success with international pay-TV providers.

The deal will not combine the bills. Customers will have to sign up and pay for a Netflix subscription through Netflix, not Dish.