AT&T TV, now rebranded as DirecTV Stream, is one of the most widely used live TV streaming services that grants many cable channels. A common concern people have with services such as this is whether they will allow for local broadcast stations such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox. In this blog post, we will explore more about the local channels that are available on DirecTV Stream.
What are Local Channels?
Local broadcast channels are the channels that can be received with an antenna in your area without any subscription. This includes major broadcast networks like:
- ABC
- CBS
- NBC
- Fox
- The CW
- PBS
- MyNetworkTV
These channels broadcast local news, sports, and entertainment programs from the network. For viewers who want to replace their cable TV subscription, access to local channels becomes useful for cord-cutters.
DirecTV Stream has the following local channels:
Local channels that can be accessed through DirecTV Stream depend on the location of the viewer. While some major metropolitan areas are covered by DirecTV Stream local ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox affiliates are available. This means that you can watch live local news and prime-time programs from the major broadcast networks.
Nevertheless, local channels are more restricted in smaller markets. Even though their channel availability across the country is gradually increasing, there are still some regions in the country that have not been served by the DirecTV Stream locals.
How to Check Local Channels for Your Location?
To know this, the only way is to use your zip code to check for local channels on DirecTV Stream’s website. This will display the channel list you can get in your region of residence.
If your local ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC affiliates are part of the lineup, the channel numbers and station names will be listed and spelled out (for example, “WABC” or “KING-TV”). This means you can get those live local stations on DirecTV Stream if you live in that region.
If one or more local channels are missing, then they are not available to stream in your area at the moment. To view those broadcast stations, you would require an additional OTA antenna setup.
Why Local Channel Availability is Limited?
There are a few reasons why local channel availability is still limited on some streaming services like DirecTV Stream:
- Carriage deals must be negotiated individually market by market when it comes to broadcasters and streamers. This is quite cumbersome especially due to the current development in technology that has made it difficult to distinguish between a real and an artificial one.
- Some local affiliate groups demand high retransmission fees that may hinder deals for streamers economically.
- Sometimes the signal is sacred and restrictions can be placed even where there is a deal in place for a broadcaster.
That is why, initially, local channel coverage often concentrates mainly on the largest Designated Market Areas (DMAs). Entering new, smaller markets is more time-consuming because the local TV markets are more diverse.
Some of the ways through which people can be provided with other means of watching local channels include:
If the local broadcast channels you want are not available on DirecTV Stream, here are some alternative options:
Use an OTA Antenna
Local over-the-air channels that you can watch depending on your location are best viewed through an HD antenna. The antennas range from $20 and above. Plug it into your TV and it, and scan for channels – and all at no monthly fee!
Try Another Streaming Service
Other streaming services that broadcast live channels include YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV, among others, and they offer local channels in many regions. Visit their websites to see if they have your missing local stations in your zip code.
Amplified Antenna
It is possible to combine an amplified antenna with your streaming setup to help it capture signals from farther distances. It is recommended to install it as far from the wall and as close to a window as possible.
Conclusion
Although DirecTV Stream’s local channels are slowly being added to their lineup, they do not have local stations in every market as of now. The only way to confirm whether your ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox affiliates are on DirecTV Stream is to go to their website and enter your zip code to see your local channel numbers/names. An OTA antenna can come in handy in case there are gaps in streaming services particularly for local channels.
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!
