DirectTV Stream, formerly known as AT&T TV, is a live streaming platform that allows its users to watch live television programs, on-demand content, and record programs on the go. It aims at mimicking a conventional cable or satellite TV service, but it is a service that is streamed through the internet. Below are the channels offered by DirectTV Stream, its features, system requirements, and subscription fees.
To watch DirectTV Stream, you need a fast and stable internet connection, at least 8 Mbps are needed to ensure that the stream works fine. Another advantage over traditional TV services is that DirectTV Stream is accessible in any location, including where you live. All you need is to make sure that you have a strong internet connection and then you can apply.
DirectTV Stream provides packages that include all the major networks; ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and popular cable networks; ESPN, TNT, HGTV among many others. The basic package known as Entertainment has more than 65 channel whereas the top notch package – Premier has more than 140 channels. It has also other optional channel bundles for sports, movies, Spanish, etc There are local regional sports networks for selected places.
The following are some of the excellent features that DirectTV Stream offers: cloud DVR for recording the shows and saving up to 20 hours of space, concurrent streaming on up to 20 devices in the house, VOD service with thousands of movies and shows, and a program guide with integrated search and suggestions. When creating an account you can have up to 6 profiles so everyone can record their messages and give suggestions.
As for compatibility with streaming devices, DirectTV Stream is available on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, and iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. One constraint is that only three devices can be streamed at one time for each of the accounts. Then only 3 TVs in the house could watch at the same time.
All new customers for DirectTV Stream have to sign a 24-month contract. At the outset, Entertainment package costs $69. 99/month and Premier costs $149. 99/month. The prices rise by $10-20 per month after the first 12 months of membership. Unfortunately, there are no options for annual contracts or any other type of long term commitment. The customer can cancel the plan at any time, but there would be an early termination fee if it was done within the first two years.
There are some extra charges that the consumers should consider which includes taxes, broadcast TV fees as well as the regional sports fees that cost $10-$20 for each bill. The streaming devices also have other monthly costs if you subscribe to other more costly services such as HBO Max or Showtime. DirectTV Stream does not tie you up to any annual contract so you can cancel anytime but if you wish to cancel in the first year, you would have to pay back the amount of device discounts and early termination fee.
All in all, DirectTV Stream is not among the cheapest live TV streaming services, but they have good deals on channel bundles and some cool features like unlimited cloud DVR and ability to stream on multiple devices. The access nationwide, as well as simplicity of price model, are the benefits over traditional cable here. As much as it may be desirable to acquire DirectTV Stream for free and is always a bonus, the fact of the matter is that media licensing and content distribution does not come cheap. However, as with any other paid TV service, make sure to review the comprehensive cost that is involved with the service, which include fees, optional add-on features, cancellation policies and the likes. One must first compare with other streaming providers out there such as YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV, FuboTV, among others before concluding if DirectTV Stream suits your home.