Though the names are almost the same, the DirecTV app and the DIRECTV STREAM are two different services that one needs to know. In this post, we’ll highlight the disparities between the DirecTV app and DIRECTV STREAM to provide some clarity for what each provides.
What is the DirecTV App?
The DirecTV app is an application for smartphones designed for individuals who already have a DirecTV satellite television subscription. It allows you to:
- Watch programs and access content from your DirecTV package on smartphones and tablets.
- That way, one can watch live TV or on-demand movies/shows from virtually any location.
- This includes setting programs to record or otherwise control your DVR.
- The remaining option for bill payment is to pay online.
Therefore, the DirecTV app simply takes your satellite service to the next level of your Smartphone and tablet but you need to have a standard DirecTV satellite subscription. However, it does not offer standalone streaming without the dish setup of the mentioned devices.
What is DIRECTV STREAM?
DIRECTV STREAM is a streaming service that has the same programming as DirecTV, but there is no need to have a satellite dish installed. The key features of DIRECTV STREAM include:
- Broadcast live channels on the internet to supported devices
- Movies, television programs, sports events, and other programs can also be aired on demand.
- Cloud DVR is added to enable the recording of shows.
- These are packages such as Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier.
- Additional features like HBO Max
That is why DIRECTV STREAM allows watching DirecTV programming through the internet without the need for installing satellite equipment. This is where DirecTV moves from being a satellite television service to a streaming service.
Key Difference: No Satellite Dish Required for DIRECTV STREAM
The main difference when it comes to using the DirecTV app and DIRECTV STREAM is that the latter does not require satellite equipment.
The DirecTV app is an extension of a basic satellite TV package, which means it does require a dish on your house. DIRECTV STREAM is a stand-alone streaming service for those who do not require additional equipment to access the service.
And if you want satellite service then the DirecTV app is the mobility interface of that already existing package. However, if you are in search of something similar to DirecTV streaming services, then DIRECTV STREAM provides the option to receive their content through the internet.
Additional Differences in Features
Beyond the satellite requirement, there are some additional feature differences:
Supported Devices – DirecTV application can be used on mobile terminal and personal computer. DIRECTV STREAM works with smartphones and computers, streaming devices such as Apple TV or Firestick, smart TVs, and others.
Anywhere view capability – Both enable the user to watch DirecTV channels when away from home. However, the DirecTV app restricts the number of streams at the same time more than the DIRECTV STREAM which can be viewed only one stream outside the home.
No 5. 1 surround sound – At the moment, you can only get stereo sound on DIRECTV STREAM, while satellite DirecTV lets you have 5. 1 surround.
Hence while the central transmitters and the programmes are the same, there are certain features and technical differences apart from the satellite equipment.
Which Do You Need: DirecTV App or DIRECTV STREAM?
Determining which service you need comes down to an assessment of your situation:
Already have satellite service? If one is a DirecTV customer with a standard satellite subscription, then all that is needed is the DirecTV app to watch that programming on other devices or TVs.
Want streaming-only access? If you are in search of a streaming platform and you want to get the live local channels of DirecTV without having the satellite installation then you can opt for DIRECTV STREAM.
Prioritizing certain features? Consider options such as surround sound, the number of streams allowed at once, streaming rules when outside the home, and compatible devices to determine which fits best.
The app complements your satellite service while DIRECTV STREAM imitates it through the internet. Knowing how you would like to receive the programming will determine which option you will go for.
Even though the names are quite similar and both offer a way to access content from DirecTV, the DirecTV app and DIRECTV STREAM are different services. With any luck, the guide above clarifies the differences between the two services enough to remove any confusion in the matter!
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