AT&T/EchoStar rumor boiling

The companies involved have declined to comment, but industry observers seem convinced AT&T will acquire its DISH satellite TV parent EchoStar Communications. EchoStar itself acquired highly-regarded Slingbox this week in a deal that looks to trigger the restructuring of EchoStar into two separate units.

The match could signal a new wave in TV competition, as AT&T could have formidable TV deployment options to reach any market, as well as the potential to integrate satellite and IPTV in some way. The way people are talking, this deal could happen at any moment, which of course means it also may never happen. Have fun following it for the next few days, but don't let it ruin your weekend.

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