DirecTV has entered the free, ad-supported streaming television (FAST) market with a service called MyFree DirecTV. This initiative is designed to provide consumers with complimentary access to a selection of live channels and on-demand content, serving both as a standalone entertainment option and a marketing tool to encourage upgrades to paid television packages. The service is accessible nationwide online, via mobile devices, and on select smart TVs and streaming devices.
MyFree DirecTV is positioned to compete with established free streaming platforms such as Pluto TV, Tubi, and the Roku Channel. It will feature "curated FAST Channel content" and an "extensive" on-demand library, though the specific number of titles has not been disclosed. DirecTV plans to expand the content library further in 2025 and beyond. The service integrates DirecTV’s "Your TV" content aggregation carousel, which offers personalized recommendations. According to Amy Leifer, DirecTV's head of advertising, the goal is to provide consumers with quality content, choice, and control at the right value.
In addition to the new free tier, DirecTV maintains a presence in the paid streaming market through DirecTV Stream (formerly DirecTV Now), which offers access to over 150 network, local, and sports channels. The company recently announced a rate hike for both satellite TV and DirecTV Stream subscribers. Furthermore, DirecTV has announced a deal to acquire Dish Network, aiming to create the largest U.S. pay-TV provider.
Content Expansion and Channel Lineup
MyFree DirecTV is actively expanding its channel lineup through partnerships with major media companies. Starting August 14, the service added three channels from NBCUniversal, followed by two Fox channels and four Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) channels on August 25. These additions focus on specific genres including crime, culinary arts, paranormal mysteries, reality TV, and sports.
The specific channels added include: * NBCUniversal: * Dateline 24/7: Continuous airing of true crime mysteries from the Dateline series. * NBC News NOW: 24-hour news coverage. * TODAY All Day: Four hours of the TODAY show daily starting at 11 a.m. ET, followed by segments hosted by Today anchors. * Fox: * Fox Sports: Focuses on sports documentaries, podcasts, and segments from the FS1 studio show. Live sports are not included. * The Masked Singer: Content related to the reality competition series. * Warner Bros. Discovery: Specific channels were not detailed in the source material, but the addition covers four channels.
Additionally, DirecTV’s existing channel lineup includes the Lionsgate’s MovieSphere FAST channel, which features movies such as 3:10 to Yuma, Ender’s Game, and Wind River.
Promotional Offers and Free Trials
For consumers interested in premium content or paid subscription trials, DirecTV offers several promotions. These are distinct from the MyFree DirecTV service but are relevant to consumers seeking value.
Premium Channel Access
There have been instances where DirecTV and AT&T customers received temporary free access to premium channels. A specific report indicated that customers could access HBO, Starz, Showtime, and Cinemax for free during a weekend period until November 27. The channel mappings provided were: * HBO: Channels 501-511 * Cinemax: Channels 515-523 * Starz: Channels 525-542 * Showtime: Channels 545-557 Note: Availability may vary by region.
Paid Subscription Trials and Perks
DirecTV frequently offers trials for its paid streaming services and packages: * DirecTV Stream Trial: A free five-day trial is available. The first month for new subscribers can start as low as $59.99. * Premium Channel Bundles: New subscribers to select Signature Packages (Entertainment All Included, Choice All Included, or Ultimate All Included) can receive three months of HBO Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, Cinemax, and MGM+ (a claimed value of $175). * Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited: These are available for free with DirecTV packages. * DIRECTV PERKS Program: Both new and existing customers can sign up for this reward program to receive unique rewards, content, and experiences. * Local Channel Discount: DirecTV allows customers to opt out of receiving local TV station feeds for a discount for as long as they choose.
Other Streaming Deals
While not exclusive to DirecTV, the source data lists several other streaming service free trials and deals available to consumers: * AMC+: Free seven-day trial at Prime Video * Apple TV+: Free seven-day trial * BET+: Free seven-day trial at Prime Video * Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited: Free with DirecTV * Frndly: Free seven-day trial * Fubo: Free seven-day trial * Hulu: Free 30-day trial * Hulu + Live TV: Free three-day trial * Paramount+: Free seven-day trial * Peacock: Free Peacock Premium with Instacart+ membership * Philo: Free seven-day trial * Prime Video: Free 30-day trial * Sling: Up to 50 percent off the first month
How to Access MyFree DirecTV
MyFree DirecTV is designed for broad accessibility. It is available nationwide to U.S. consumers through the following platforms: 1. Online: Via web browsers. 2. Mobile: Through mobile applications. 3. Connected Devices: On select smart TVs and streaming devices.
The service does not require a subscription to a paid DirecTV package, though existing subscribers will have their "Your TV" carousel integrated into the free service for a personalized experience.
Market Context
The launch of MyFree DirecTV comes during a period of significant transition for the company. DirecTV recently announced a rate increase for its satellite and streaming subscribers. Simultaneously, the company is pursuing an acquisition of Dish Network to consolidate the declining pay-TV industry, aiming to serve approximately 18 million customers. This move into FAST streaming represents a strategy to capture advertising revenue and reach cord-cutters who prefer free, ad-supported models over traditional pay-TV.
Conclusion
MyFree DirecTV represents a significant entry into the free streaming market, offering a curated selection of live channels and on-demand content supported by advertising. It provides a legitimate, no-cost option for consumers to access entertainment, news, and lifestyle content without a subscription. For those seeking premium content, DirecTV continues to offer promotional trials and bundles for its paid services, including temporary free access to premium cable networks and extended trials for streaming platforms like Disney+ and Hulu. Consumers interested in these offers should verify current availability, as pricing, channel lineups, and promotional periods are subject to change.