DIRECTV is also one of the largest American satellite TV companies that operate across the country. DIRECTV was launched in 1994 and over time it has been using satellites to transmit various TV channels and programs and other content such as video on demand. However, with the introduction of internet TV and video streaming services, many people are asking if it is possible NOT to use a satellite dish to have DIRECTV.
What is DIRECTV?
DIRECTV is a DBS service provider that operates for AT&T, a telecommunication company. It broadcasts digital satellite television and audio signals to households within the United States of America Direct TV service involves the installation of a satellite dish at the customer’s physical address with necessary equipment such as direct TV receivers and DVRs. These are pieces of equipment that enable the reception of DIRECTV satellite signals and convey them on your television sets.
Do You Need a Satellite Dish for DIRECTV?
So far DIRECTV has only been available with a mounted satellite dish where a viewer had to have an unrestricted view of the southern sky. The dish shaped like a Mexican hat that is connected to your DIRECTV equipment receives the signals transmitted by these DIRECTV satellites orbiting the equator. Indeed, this is the case as it pointed out that without this satellite dish, you cannot receive programming from the DIRECTV platform.
Thus in earlier times, to subscribe to DIRECTV one has to put up a satellite TV dish on the premises of the house.
The Launch of DIRECTV Stream
AT&T’s pay-TV arm DIRECTV entered the live-streaming market in 2019 when it unveiled an online subscription service called DIRECTV Stream previously known as AT&T TV. DIRECTV Stream offers a lot of the same programs and functionalities as the satellite DIRECTV but packages it all over the internet.
This means that DIRECTV Stream does not rely on any equipment other than the streaming device, such as a smartphone, streaming stick, or smart television. Subsequently, you can access and stream all the packages of DIRECTV over the internet on all internet-enabled devices without the need for the satellite provided you have high-speed internet connectivity.
How DIRECTV Stream Stacks Up
DIRECTV Stream is a way for those who have cut the cord or do not have access to installations for satellite service to watch live TV and on-demand programs from DIRECTV’s program selection. This may consist of local broadcast networks, sports channels including ESPN and FS1, popular cable networks such as TNT and USA, and thousands of movies on-demand.
In terms of features, DIRECTV Stream offers advanced capabilities like:
- An additional feature namely Cloud DVR service for recording shows
- Some of these features include; It can stream on up to 20 devices at a go.
- Voice remote and search for some of the streaming boxes
- The final feature benefit that was identified is the availability of Pay Per View events and movies.
However, there are some downsides to DIRECTV Stream over traditional satellite DIRECTV:
- The technology does not support 4K HDR video quality as of now.
- A lesser variety of channels (ONLY 315+ channels on Stream)
- Latency and delays, especially during the peak time of internet usage.
- Lack of exclusive DIRECTV channels and packages.
As such, while DIRECTV Stream presents cord-cutters with a user experience that is fairly similar to satellite DIRECTV, there are some constraints. However, satellite service DIRECTV still presents superior picture quality, the most extensive number of programming choices, and the best consistency of programming.
Can You Get Local Channels?
A typical query related to services such as DIRECTV Stream is whether specific local over-the-air broadcast networks can be streamed. Yes, in packages available through DIRECTV Stream, live local channels are offered depending on your location and local affiliates.
After signing up, when you input your home address, DIRECTV Stream will inform you which local ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and other local stations are available to be streamed in the region. Local news and TV channels can be important to many viewers, which makes this feature a major plus for DIRECTV Stream for cord-cutters.
Is DIRECTV Stream a Viable Satellite Replacement?
To ordinary consumers craving live sporting activities, news, and entertainment from the leading cable networks, DIRECTV Stream offers a rather decent streaming option to satellite. The channel lineup is comprehensive but there are no regional sports networks that are so popular nowadays. This is because; the availability of local channels will help you not to miss your favorite local news or shows from the various major broadcast stations.
Nevertheless, for those who consider themselves true TV lovers and are in search of an opportunity to watch specific channels or specialty sports packages, traditional satellite DIRECTV does have more to offer. For the individuals who prefer the video quality of 4K HDR, they will have to settle for the satellite dish configuration only. However, for those who cannot set up a satellite dish where they reside, DIRECTV Stream is another way to get this exact service without having to put up any exterior hardware.
Thus, despite these drawbacks, the DirecTV Stream can be considered an adequate replacement for satellite broadcasting - at least for really popular channels. The streaming platform has at last brought an opportunity that makes it possible for people who cannot afford or are unable to get satellite service to access DIRECTV programming.
Transform your viewing experience with DirecTV! Call us today at +1 855-213-2250 to explore our plans and find the perfect package for you. Our experts are ready to assist you and get you set up with top-notch entertainment. Don’t wait—contact us now!