DirecTV is one of the largest direct broadcast satellite service providers in the United States of America. In addition, their satellite service allows customers to get access to several hundred channels, broadcasting entertainment, news, sports and other programs. However, the following question comes to many customer’s minds - does DirecTV offer streaming services together with satellite ones? Alright let us get a little closer to this work.
Which streaming services are available on DirecTV?
DirecTV Stream
DirecTV satellite offers a main streaming service known as DirecTV Stream. Formerly called AT&T TV, DirecTV Stream is similar to traditional satellite TV services, albeit streaming content through the internet instead of via satellite.
DirecTV Stream offers more than 140 channels including local networks, ESPN, FS1, CNN, TBS, HGTV and many others. DirecTV Stream employs an interface that is easy to understand and clouds DVR for recording programs.
The number of streams permitted concurrently depends with the channel package chosen. It is also worth mentioning that every DirecTV Stream channel package offers 20 hours of DVR storage. More space on the DVR is available for purchase.
HBO Max
As mentioned earlier, HBO Max is bundled with most DirecTV satellite packages as part of the subscription cost. HBO MAX is an enhanced streaming service that offers HBO programming along with other popular shows, movies, documentaries, and kids’ content from Warner Bros, DC, and others.
This includes Game of Thrones, Westworld, The White Lotus and movies from Harry Potter and The Matrix. Depending on the package you obtain through DirecTV, you can stream the content on connected devices or through the HBO Max app which is accessible on phones, tablets, smart TVs, and other devices.
Are There Any Other Streaming Services Offered With DirecTV?
At the moment, DirecTV Stream and HBO Max are the only streaming services bundled in with DirecTV Satellite subscriptions for free. Almost all the main streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Paramount+ are available separately, and not through DirecTV channel subscriptions.
Still, the customers who have wireless service with AT&T and/or Internet and/or DirecTV can get special bonuses when ordering the additional services, such as HBO Max. Furthermore, there are specific channels such as Amazon Prime Video Channels that let you purchase other streaming services like Showtime, Starz, and Epix that you can access through your Prime Video credentials.
Is DirecTV Streaming Available on Any Device?
To access the DirecTV streaming benefits, you’ll need an internet-connected device like:
• Smartphone or tablet using the DirecTV Stream or HBO Max applications
• Smart streaming device such as Roku, fire TV, Chromecast or Apple TV.
• Smart TV with similar operating system (any 2018 or newer model)
• Local web browser of a computer.
This way, you will be able to find DirecTV streaming through home WiFi or any location that you may find yourself with internet connectivity. This is it: download the app, get an account and then you can start streaming, it is that simple.
Does One Need High Speed Internet for DirecTV Streaming?
It is advisable to have high speed broadband internet to receive DirecTV streaming services consistently. DirecTV makes a point of noting that the internet speeds of 8Mbps per stream are ideal for the best playback quality and stability.
So if you wish to run 3 streams at once in your home environment, you require download speeds of 25Mbps and above from your internet service provider. Speeds such as 50-100Mbps will give maximum bandwidth stability when several devices are streaming the DirecTV apps simultaneously.
The Bottom Line
Although DirecTV satellite TV still remains the primary service that provides access to hundreds of channels, most base packages also include streaming through DirecTV Stream and free HBO Max. This basically means the best of both worlds with live satellite television included and on-demand shows, movies and originals via streaming.
To avail, all you require is a streaming device with internet connection such as mobile, media streamer, computer or smart TV. When using the DirecTV apps or when browsing through the directory online through the official website, it is possible to stream shows without experiencing interferences when the home internet speeds are at least 25 Mbps or even higher. This enables satellite subscriber to enjoy DirecTV programming even when they are seated in the living room or on holiday and wish to access it miles away.
