In addition to the direct broadcast satellite service, Directv offers a streaming service to users allowing them more flexibility in how they access content. However, can Directv Stream (formerly AT&T TV) be watched anywhere or is there a limit to the accessibility? This article will discuss the functionality of Directv Stream, the restrictions, and the devices used in the context of the streaming platform.
What Is Directv Stream?
First of all, let’s see what Directv Stream is, as it is an important aspect. Directv Stream is the streaming service from the satellite TV provider Directv. It provides live television and other programming over the internet instead of dishes or equipment.
The service is almost like cable television but instead of providing networks through cables, it streams. It comprises large network broadcasters and famous cable networks along with the provision of supporting applications such as WatchESPN, and FOXNow, among others.
In the case of Directv Stream, the streaming device acts as the set-top box that links your television to the internet to enable it to download and display the content.
The Device Requirements
To get into Directv Stream, one requires an internet connection, either via Wi-Fi or a wired LAN connection, and a device that is compatible with the platform. The number of simultaneous device connections is determined by the selected package. Most of the packages permit second streaming (in-home and out-of-home), but some of the plans allow for three.
Supported devices for accessing Directv Stream include:
- Fire TV and Stick, and Fire Cube
- Apple TV 4K or any Apple TV which is 4th generation and above.
- Google Chromecast and Chromecast with Google TV
- iPhone and iPad – the devices that run iOS 12 or any of the later versions.
- Android phones and tablets that are running Android 6 and above. OS
- Most of the web browsers are found on PC and Mac*.
- Samsung and LG Smart TVs (select models)
* indicates that the device can only play DirecTV Stream content on either the home network or an out-of-home WiFi network (more on this below). The other devices have the same capability of accessing the service from anywhere.
Watch DirecTV Stream On Your Home WiFi Network
On the bright side, Directv Stream is compatible with several devices within the same home network, so you do not need separate connections. If you are viewing in the bedroom on a smart TV, in the kitchen on your iPad, or using Chromecast in the family room, there will be no restrictions at all.
The Directv Stream application lets you watch the content on your devices that are connected to your home Wi-Fi. It is possible to view the shows simultaneously on different devices based on the number allowed by the package.
Going Directv Stream On The Go
Here are some of the limitations that need to be looked at: If you want to take your Directv Stream subscription on the go, outside of your home WiFi network, there are some things to consider:
Reliable High-Speed Connection Required
First of all, one has to have a fast LTE or WiFi connection wherever he/she goes to be able to watch something of decent quality. It can be expected that slow WiFi in a hotel would not be sufficient for live sporting events or HD movies. Wireless hotspots can also be irregular at times. It is advisable to use the mobile hotspot or your friend’s fast home internet connection for the best results.
Out-Of-Home Restrictions
While you can stream outside the home, some restrictions apply depending on the device:
- Computing devices like smartphones and tablets enable freedom in streaming out-of-home content.
- Rokus, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TVs can only be used within the registered premises
- Most laptops and browsers are capable of streaming out-of-home although the content may be restricted according to the programmers.
Therefore, mobile devices are most portable when it comes to on-the-go streaming. But your experience is still determined by the internet connection that you are using.
Simultaneous Stream Limits Remain
It does not matter where you are streaming from, the number of devices that can be connected simultaneously is restricted to your package. The packages with two or three streams can be used by the users in the home as well as outside the home.
For instance, if one person is streaming on their iPhone while on the train, then other in-home devices are restricted to one or two streams based on the plan.
How Directv Stream Confirms Your Location
When using Directv to stream outside your home network, location verification is used to ensure that you are using a valid subscription. This may include:
- This means that you will have to confirm your location through the mobile device settings or the WiFi network.
- Timely confirmation texts to the phone number you provide
- Having a list of device IP addresses that attempted to access the content
Thus, you cannot invite friends or relatives over and let them use your account and password as you wish. It constantly scans streaming sites at a distance to enable or disable access.
Can a VPN be used to avoid restrictions?
Is it possible to avoid the restrictions on streaming out of home by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN)? Unfortunately, that may not be possible with DirecTV Stream. The tracking methods used will capture VPN usage to mask your streaming location.
For simple geographical restrictions, VPNs are effective, although, in some cases, they may require additional blocking. However, DirecTV Stream constantly verifies device locations by employing methods a VPN cannot mimic. Therefore, streaming outside your authorized area will still be prohibited.
In Summary
DirecTV’s location restrictions are meant to address the issue of people using other people’s accounts without permission. As Netflix has recently started cracking down on people sharing accounts with those who do not live in the same household, services wish to ensure that only subscribers have access to the content from anywhere.
Is DirecTV Stream stream anywhere, then? Alas, on smartphones and tablets, you do have pretty much free reign to stream. Laptops and other devices can also work outside the home but with more variable limitations on certain programming.
However, within the home WiFi network streaming freedom is indeed most flexible on all compatible devices your package allows. Yes, out-of-home streaming is possible in many scenarios if it can connect to a good internet connection but it does have more restrictions on the location and some devices cannot have access to it remotely.
In summary, DirecTV Stream offers decent streaming freedom within the house and above-average freedom outside the home in most scenarios. There are some general location and device restrictions, but overall, it seems fairly balanced in allowing subscribers to have a wide choice of what to stream while not allowing the content to be shared on multiple devices the users own.
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!
