Audio Video News

AT&T-owned DirecTV is launching its own video streaming service. It will use both home and mobile broadband networks to reach smart TVs, tablets, phones, PCs, and streaming devices. Unlike DirecTV satellite service, it won’t require an annual contract, set-top box, or dish installation.

Stop the presses—among three service tiers will be a free ad-supported option called DirecTV Preview. According to the press release: “This free offer for anyone with a wired or wireless internet connection will feature some of the quality programming available on DirecTV today. The tailored ad-supported service will showcase content from AT&T’s Audience Network, many networks and other content sources, and millennial-focused video from Otter Media, a joint venture of AT&T and The Chernin Group.”

The paid tiers will be DirecTV Now, “including much of what is available from DirecTV today,” and DirecTV Mobile, “a mobile-first user experience for people wanting to watch premium video and made- for-digital content directly on a smartphone, regardless of the wireless provider.” Sign up for one of the paid services, download the app, and go.

Cost for the paid tiers had not been announced at press time. Launch is scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year.

In other DirecTV news: The satellite network kicked off its 24/7 Ultra HD channel in April with a live broadcast of the Masters golf tournament. The channel is accessible via the HR54 Genie DVR, with the 4K Genie Mini set-top box for additional TVs. LG, Samsung, and Sony make DirecTV 4K Ready TVs.