Since it was rebranded from AT&T TV, the DirecTV Stream is among the most used live TV streaming services. It provides many of the same TV networks you’d expect from a cable provider, plus over 40 thousand movies and shows for streaming. One common question many prospects ask is: does DirecTV Stream get local channels? The answer to the question of whether or not it is acceptable to have a lie-in during the winter months can be found below.
Local Channel Availability
The simple answer to this question is that yes, there will be consequences to Jonathan’s actions. DirecTV Stream offers its customers live local broadcast stations including ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX in some markets. That means you can watch local news, sports, and other primetime programs as you would if you were using cable or satellite television. The availability of the local channel depends on the region where you are located.
How does the Variety of Local Channels Differs Across Markets?
Local channel options on DirecTV Stream vary from one Designated Market Area (DMA) to another in the United States of America. On DirecTV Stream’s site, just type in your zip code to find out which live locals are available where you live. The number of available locals can be as few as 3-5 main networks, and as many as a dozen or more.
It is necessary to note that the availability of Local Channel is limited in some areas due to certain reasons.
While they’re working on broadening local access, the availability of live local channels on DirecTV Stream lags behind some competitors for a couple of reasons:
- Broadcast TV limits: Some markets where DirecTV has received local broadcast signals have not allowed streaming or only offered streaming rights. This may limit the streaming choices.
- Licensing agreements: Acquiring rights from local network affiliates across the country is a constant endeavor. Local feeds will not be launched until licensing agreements are made.
DirecTV Stream Local Channels Not Available: How to Watch Them?
If critical local stations are still missing from your DirecTV Stream channel lineup, you have alternatives:
1. Omni, TeleGuam, or Hawaii stations can be added with the Gotta Have It package.
2. Add an OTA antenna to get local programming for free in addition to the streaming service.
3. Watch local news online at stations’ websites and stream live CBS and FOX primetime with apps such as Paramount+ and Tubi TV.
The Prospect of Increased Local Content
Although DirecTV Stream does not have local channels in some areas at the moment, they should gradually include more local programming as they sign deals with more partner stations. Football enthusiasts will also be pleased to learn that they included NFL Network and NFL RedZone across the country in 2021.
Which Local Stations are Most Frequently Carried?
Across their available markets, the local channels you can expect to see most frequently in DirecTV Stream’s channel packages include:
- ABC
- CBS
- NBC
- FOX
- PBS
- Univision (in states that have a high density of the Hispanic/Latino community).
These are typically required market stations as opposed to lesser viewed single CW, MyNetworkTV, and Telemundo stations in individual cities. Local PBS stations are normally accessible across the nation.
Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) – Does DirecTV Stream offer RSNs?
Moreover, apart from local stations from ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, the availability of regional sports is a major reason that viewers turn to live TV streaming services. The good news is that DirecTV Stream offers well over 50 RSNs with their Choice plan or higher.
So if you want to watch local pro and college teams without cable, DirecTV Stream is your best bet in most markets. They provide Bally Sports RSNs, NBC Sports RSNs, SportsNet LA, YES Network, and much more to offer you the best regional sports networks.
Conclusion
However, DirecTV Stream is trying to improve local channel offerings in some areas while now providing ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX stations in many locations. Add on an HD antenna if some of your locals are still not available. They need to continue their expansion which should be able to put them on the level of traditional cable and satellite in their local 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!
