DirecTV Stream is the streaming platform version of DirecTV's satellite television service; it was formerly known as AT&T TV. It is a direct live TV streaming service over the internet connection and not necessarily through a satellite dish. However, it is not related to the normal Directv satellite program service that is in existence today. Is it then true that DirecTV Stream is free to current DirecTV satellite subscribers? Well, let’s take a closer look.
What is DirecTV Stream?
DirecTV Stream is a popular live TV streaming service that is operated by AT&T and DirecTV. They provide top cable live channel programs such as ESPN, CNN, TNT, AMC, and HGTV among others. The service transmits content directly through the internet to the target devices such as mobile phones, media streaming devices, smart TVs, and web browsers.
It has different channel packages ranging from $70 per month. Additionally, you could include premium channels such as HBO and Showtime. DirecTV Stream is very similar to regular DirecTV in terms of the channels available, but instead of satellite delivery, it’s over the Internet.
DirecTV Stream vs DirecTV: What’s the Difference?
Although DirecTV and DirecTV Stream may sound similar and are owned by the same parent company, there are some key differences:
• Delivery method – DirecTV employs the use of a satellite dish installation to provide content. DirecTV Stream is an online streaming service that works through your internet connection.
• Contracts – DirecTV has the standard policy of signing long-term contracts with a standard duration of 2 years. DirecTV Stream does not have contracts. You can cancel anytime.
• Accessibility - DirecTV also entails having a clear view of the southern sky for proper reception of the satellite. Indeed, Direct TV Streaming is offered across the country provided that there is an internet connection available.
• Compatible devices – DirecTV supports satellite receivers while DirecTV Stream supports mobile devices, media streaming devices, smart TVs, etc. The streaming sticks and boxes including Apple, Roku, etc. have the DirecTV Stream app.
In conclusion, one provides similar channel packages as the other but they are different services with different means of content delivery.
Is DirecTV Stream Free for the Existing DirecTV Subscribers?
Because DirecTV Stream is recognized as a different service from the satellite DirecTV system, current DirecTV customers do not enjoy free access to DirecTV Stream.
If you want to join DirecTV Stream as a new customer, you have to register and have to pay the price you see for any of the packages and services offered. Having the satellite service doesn’t entitle you to any discount or even free streaming on DirecTV Stream.
DirecTV Stream Pricing
Here is a look at normal DirecTV Stream pricing if you were to sign up without any promotions or discounts:
• Entertainment – This comes at $70 per month and gives the clients access to 75 or more channels.
• Choice – $90/month for 105+ channels
• Tier 5 – $105 per month for over 140 channels
• Premier – $150/month with 150+ channels.
Therefore, DirecTV satellite customers must pay those regular prices above to get DirecTV Stream. You can look for shorter-term promotional pricing, but having regular DirecTV does not come with a free streaming subscription.
Other DirecTV Promotions and Offers
While having regular DirecTV satellite TV does not give you free access to DirecTV Stream, AT&T does offer some bundle discounts when you have multiple AT&T services:
• Existing customers of AT&T unlimited wireless plan can enjoy $10 per month off DirecTV Stream.
• Its internet subscribers can get DirecTV Stream at $5 per month off the regular price for the initial 12 months.
If you are subscribed to AT&T wireless cell phone service or AT&T home internet, then there are some slight DirecTV Stream offers when it comes to bundling. However, there are no special free streaming subscription plans available for new or existing satellite service subscribers on DirecTV.
Summary
In conclusion, DirecTV Stream does not automatically accompany a regular DirecTV satellite service subscription. They are both services offered under the Bell South Company but are different service providers. Existing DirecTV customers who wish to subscribe to DirecTV Stream will have to do so at the standard rates of any other customer. Purchasing AT&T wireless or Internet services may be eligible for some of the discounts, but simply having basic DirecTV alone does not automatically get you free streaming or any perks for DirecTV Stream. Taking into account the current high prices for pay TV services, the availability of free streaming would be an enormous plus, but in this case, it is not.
