It was no surprise when DIRECTV developed a platform for streaming content. Find out what benefits the service has to offer cord cutters, below.
The Basics
DIRECTV NOW is a streaming service from AT&T. The company is promoting the service as an alternative to cable, without a contract, and with the ability to choose a package that works best for your personal preferences.
The service gives you access to live TV, with a guide to let you see what’s airing and the ability to flip through channels, just like you would with cable. And, just like with cable, you’ll still have commercial breaks.
What might set DIRECTV NOW apart from other services is the name recognition. DIRECTV has been installing satellite dishes since 1990 and has built up a loyal group of customers. Creating a streaming option has allowed DIRECTV to continue providing quality content, without the need for satellite dishes or an annual contract. It’s an easy transition for those who are already AT&T customers, and a good option for anyone who wants to cut the cord.
AT&T customers have an added advantage when it comes to choosing DIRECTV NOW for their streaming content provider. Those who use AT&T for their cell phone service can watch DIRECTV NOW content on their mobile devices without using mobile data.
The service works both at home and on mobile devices. Each account allows for simultaneous viewing on two devices at a time. While the service doesn’t currently have a DVR option available to all users (more on that below), an On Demand content feature allows access to content just a few hours after airing.
Device Compatibility
DIRECTV NOW works with most major devices, listed here:
- Apple TV
- Google Chromecast, 2nd gen and higher
- Amazon Fire TV
- Fire TV Stick
- Roku
- iPad, iOS9 and higher
- iPhone, iOS9 and higher
- Android 4.4 and higher
- Chrome 50+
- Safari 8+
Choosing a Package
DIRECTV NOW has four package options:
- Live a Little – 60+ channels
- Just Right – 80+ channels
- Go Big – 100+ channels
- Gotta Have It – 120+ channels
The packages start at $35/month. Each level includes basic channels like ABC, NBC, Fox, and TLC. As you upgrade to higher levels, you’ll have access to additional channels for shows, movies, music, and sports. Recently, DIRECTV NOW and CBS made a deal to add the channel to the lineup. Check out the DIRECTV NOW website for a breakdown of the channels offered.
The service also gives you the option of adding on HBO, Starz, and Cinemax to any package for an additional fee.
Another advantage for AT&T customers is reduced pricing on DIRECTV NOW. AT&T Unlimited subscribers get a $25 discount on their subscription, bringing the cost down to as low as $10/month.
New Features and Updates
In the interest of keeping up with competitors, DIRECTV NOW has been working on rolling out new features and updates to its service.
The most talked about update to the service recently has been the number of channels and affiliates being added. Some users have noticed more local channels being added to their guides, and the company is continuing to quietly add more local content around the country.
An initial major selling point of the service was the 72 hour rewind feature. It allowed users to go back and watch programming that had aired within the past 72 hours. The feature was taken away but made a comeback this summer. The feature now also allows you to restart a show from the beginning.
DIRECTV NOW responded to a frequent customer request for a recording option by coming up with a plan for a DVR beta. A select group of existing customers have gotten access to the feature while the company tests out the new feature.
The company is also working hard to make improvements on existing features by asking for customer input. AT&T has been looking for feedback about buffering via phone interviews and participants for an in depth study at their offices in El Segundo. This feedback should lead to more improvements, and potentially more user-friendly features in the future.
Ready to Try?
DIRECTV NOW is offering a 7 day free trial of any of their packages, so you can try the service out before starting a paid subscription.
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