Dish Network has integrated its voice remote technology with senior care service provider Independa’s AnyTV Companion product, enabling customers to control their TV and healthcare services through the sound of their voice.
According to the satellite TV service provider, when the Independa system is connected to a television installed with Dish’s Wally receiver, users can easily control both their TV entertainment and Independa services with Dish’s voice remote.
The Independa AnyTV Companion is a candy bar-sized set-back box that turns any TV with an HDMI connection into a bi-directional engagement platform for residential homes and organizations focused on senior living, home care, behavioral health and addiction recovery.
With the Independa technology users can schedule appointments, receive medication reminders, engage with others via video chat and messaging, and stay up-to-date on community information, like dining menus and event calendars, directly on their television. The platform is also compatible with health sensors and devices, such as blood pressure monitors and scales.
“Television is the main source of entertainment and news for many older Americans,” Dish Business vice president Alistair Chatwin said in a statement. “By combining the Independa system with our technology, we’re turning the TV into a solution that delivers services to help provide a better quality of life, as well as operational efficiencies for organizations in senior care.”
Dish’s voice remote interprets natural language to control navigation, search and content selection on Wally. It also features motion-activated backlighting and two custom buttons: one to launch the Independa system and the other to signal professionals and loved ones for support.
“Independa and Dish are delivering an industry first, where a second remote is not needed for the operation of the Independa system,” Independa founder and CEO Kian Saneii in a statement. “Simplicity and ease of use are key factors here, and Dish customers can now enjoy all the benefits of an Independa system right on their TVs, without the need for a computer, tablet or smartphone. No passwords, no software updates – nothing new to learn.”
