DIRECTV STREAM and Internet customers who use Gemini devices for new, personalized viewing experiences – Streamable Service
Whether it’s live TV streaming services, subscription video on demand (SVOD) platforms, or free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) hubs, one of the most common complaints about trying to watch anything via streaming is that that finding the content you want to watch is becoming more and more difficult. Services flood their libraries with new titles in hopes of proving their relevance to users’ daily lives, but end up making it harder for customers to discover new things they want to watch. On Tuesday, DIRECTV announced a new step to combat this growing problem for its non-satellite customers, as those who stream through a Gemini box will soon start seeing a new user interface.
- DIRECTV Your TV will deliver personalized recommendations based on your favorite and most-watched content selections.
- The home page will display a “Your TV” carousel front and center.
- The update will be available to DIRECTV customers using Gemini devices over the next few weeks.
Coinciding with the start of the MLB season this week, DIRECTV subscribers using a non-satellite Gemini device will soon see an all-new, user-driven carousel called Your TV. The new, fully customized user experience combines the viewer’s pre-selected favorite programs with the most frequently watched titles and types of content, so that when the TV is turned on, the most personalized live programs appear at the top of the menu. The new carousel will be available to DIRECTV STREAM and DIRECTV Via Internet customers who use Gemini devices over the next few weeks.
“The increasing fragmentation of content across many video apps and services means it is becoming increasingly difficult for customers to find the shows and games they want,” said Vince Torres, DIRECTV chief marketing officer. “DIRECTV Your TV gives Gemini users who stream DIRECTV a personalized view of their favorite entertainment and sports content, all in one place, including scores and stats for their favorite teams.”
Built on DIRECTV’s previous What’s Now interface, your TV offers new features like live playback and live sports scores and stats, all in the first carousel at the top of the DIRECTV home page.
Major League Baseball’s Opening Day is Thursday, March 28, and the NBA and NHL playoffs begin next month, so your TV is setting up DIRECTV STREAM and DIRECTV Via Internet subscribers for smooth, elegant streaming this spring. No matter what your favorite teams, sports or leagues are, your TV is designed to display content specifically tailored to each user’s individual viewing habits.
The new Your TV feature is rolling out in phases with the latest software updates for Gemini and Gemini Air devices. They are scheduled to be completed within the next few weeks. From there, DIRECTV customers who use third-party devices to stream content from the service – including Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices and smart TVs – are expected to have access to the Your TV carousel later this year.
What is DIRECTV’s Gemini?
The Gemini device is a streaming video player that can be connected to your TV via cable or wirelessly via Wi-Fi. It is a device equipped with the DIRECTV app, which allows customers to directly access their subscriptions without the need to use other platforms, hubs or devices.
The device also comes with streaming apps for the most popular subscription streaming services, including Netflix, Disney+, Max, Prime Video and many more. The Gemini runs on the Android TV platform, which means the remote supports the voice-controlled Google Assistant remote.
What are the main differences between DIRECTV STREAM and DIRECTV over the Internet?
Both DIRECTV STREAM and DIRECTV Via Internet free satellite services are compatible with the Gemini device, but this is not required for DIRECTV STREAM. These customers can access the service through the app on their streaming device or smart TV of choice.
However, there are other differences between the two services, from price, to features, contract length, and more.
DIRECTV over the Internet | DIRECTV BROADCAST | |
---|---|---|
starting price | $69.99^ (+ taxes) | $79.99 (+ taxes) |
Price lock guarantee | Yes | NO |
DVR | Unlimited cloud recorder° | Unlimited cloud recorder° |
Need a Gemini streaming device? | Yes* | NO |
Access to all DIRECTV plans? | Yes | Yes |
Free trial period? | NO | Yes |
24-months Contract required? | Yes | NO |
- ^ = Price per month for 24 months + fees including USD 15/mo. Advanced Receiver Service Fee.
- º = Recordings expire after 9 months, maximum 30 episodes per series. Restrictions apply.
- * = First device shipped to qualified customers.