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{{Short description|American direct broadcast satellite and streaming TV company}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2016}}
{{Use American English|date=January 2014}}
{{Infobox company
| name =
| logo = DIRECTV 2021 logo.svg
| logo_caption = Logo since August 2, 2021
| image = SATELITE DTV.jpg
| image_size = 220px
| image_caption =
| former_name = The DirecTV Group, Inc. (2004–2015)
| type = [[Joint venture]]
| industry = [[Multichannel television in the United States|Multichannel video programming distributor]]
| predecessor = [[Hughes Electronics]]
| foundation = {{Start date and age|1994|06|17}} (as DirecTV)
| hq_location_city = [[El Segundo, California|El Segundo]], [[California]]
| hq_location_country =
| areas_served =
| products = [[Multichannel television in the United States|multichannel linear pay television]]
| owners = {{ubl|[[AT&T]] (70%)|[[TPG
| subsid = {{hlist|[[U-verse TV]]|[[DirecTV Stream]]}}
| website = {{URL|www.directv.com}}
| footnotes = <ref name="Company Profile">{{cite web|title=About Us: Company Profile|url=http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/content/about_us/company_profile|publisher=DirecTV|access-date=July 8, 2013}}</ref>
}}
'''DirecTV, LLC''' is an American [[Multichannel television in the United States|multichannel video programming distributor]] based in [[El Segundo, California|El Segundo]], [[California]]. Originally launched on June 17, 1994, its primary service is a digital [[Satellite television|satellite service]] serving the United States. It also provides traditional linear television service delivered by IP through its [[U-verse TV]] brand and a [[Multichannel television in the United States#Virtual MVPD, TV Everywhere, and over-the-top media services|virtual multichannel video programming distributor]] service through its [[DirecTV Stream]] brand.<ref name="AT&T Spinoff Press Release">{{cite web|url=https://about.att.com/story/2021/att_directv.html|title=AT&T & TPG Close DirecTV Transaction|date=August 2, 2021|access-date=December 29, 2021}}</ref> Its primary competitors are [[Dish Network]], traditional cable television providers, [[Multichannel television in the United States#Wireline and broadband|IP-based television services]], and other [[Over-the-top media service|over-the-top]] video services.
On July 24, 2015, after receiving approval from the [[Federal Communications Commission]] and the [[United States Department of Justice|Department of Justice]], AT&T acquired DirecTV in a transaction valued at $67.1 billion.<ref name="AT&T, Inc">{{cite web|url=http://about.att.com/story/att_completes_acquisition_of_directv.html|title=AT&T Completes Acquisition of DirecTV |publisher=AT&T, Inc. |date=July 24, 2015 |access-date=July 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=cnnmay19>{{cite web|last=Stelter|first=Brian|title=AT&T and DirecTV strike $49 billion deal|url=https://money.cnn.com/2014/05/18/news/companies/att-directv/index.html |access-date=May 19, 2014|work=CNN|date=May 19, 2014}}</ref>
As of the end of Q1 2021, AT&T had 15.9 million pay-TV customers, including DirecTV, U-Verse, and DirecTV Stream subscribers.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Gurwin|first=Jason |date=2021-04-22|title=DirecTV, AT&T TV, and AT&T U-Verse Lost 620K Subscribers in Q1 2021|url=https://thestreamable.com/news/directv-att-tv-and-att-u-verse-lost-620k-subscribers-in-q1-2021 |publisher=thestreamable.com |language=en-us}}</ref>
On February 25, 2021, AT&T announced that it would spin-off DirecTV, U-Verse TV, and DirecTV Stream into a separate entity, selling a 30% stake to [[TPG
On September 30, 2024, AT&T announced that they would sell their remaining 70% stake to TPG Inc. for $7.6 billion. Once the transaction is completed, TPG Inc. will have 100% ownership of DirecTV, splitting the company off from AT&T for the first time since 2015. AT&T and TPG Inc. expect the sale to close in the second half of 2025.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2024-09-30 |title=AT&T sells stake in DirecTV for $7.6 billion as it exits entertainment biz, as DirecTV buys Dish - CBS News |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/at-t-directv-sale-7-6-billion-tpg-dish-merger/ |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=www.cbsnews.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
On September 30, 2024, DirecTV announced that it would [[Proposed acquisition of Dish Network by DirecTV|acquire]] rival [[Dish Network]] from [[EchoStar]] in a debt exchange transaction that includes a payment of $1 and the assumption of approximately $9.8 billion in debt. DirecTV stated its intent to support the Dish brand for the foreseeable future, and the company does not currently have plans to make changes to existing Dish operations.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Reilly |first=Jordan Valinsky, Ramishah Maruf, Liam |date=September 30, 2024 |title=DirecTV agrees to buy Dish for $1 | CNN Business |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2024/09/30/media/directv-dish-network-merger/ |website=CNN}}</ref> EchoStar and DirecTV expect the deal to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, contingent on regulatory approval and bondholders writing off nearly $1.6 billion in Dish-related debt.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Chapman |first=Michelle |last2=Grantham-Philips |first2=Wyatte |date=September 30, 2024 |title=Satellite service DirecTV buys rival Dish as it fights the onslaught of streaming services |url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/att-exits-showbiz-sells-remaining-stake-directv-private-114343562 |access-date=2024-09-30 |website=ABC News |language=en}}</ref>
==History==
===Hughes Electronics===
[[File:Hughes Electronics logo.svg|thumb|200px|Hughes Electronics logo (1985–1990)]]
In 1953, [[Howard Hughes]] created the [[Howard Hughes Medical Institute]] (HHMI), to which he transferred full ownership of [[Hughes Aircraft]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1986/03/30/magazine/the-richest-foundation.html|title=The Richest Foundation|last=Brinkly|first=Joel|date=1986-03-30|newspaper=The New York Times|issn=0362-4331|access-date=2017-02-03}}</ref> Following Hughes' death in 1976, HHMI was incorporated in 1977, and litigation ensued to determine whether it would be allowed to maintain its interest in Hughes Aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Howard Hughes: Patron Of Science?|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/howard-hughes-patron-of-science-21-11-2003/|access-date=2020-10-23|website=CBS News|date=November 21, 2003 |language=en}}</ref> In 1984, the court appointed a new board for HHMI, which proceeded to sell off Hughes Aircraft to [[General Motors]] on December 20, 1985, for an estimated $5.1 billion.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1985/12/23/business/gm-purchase-of-hughes.html|title=G.M. Purchase Of Hughes|website=[[The New York Times]]|date=23 December 1985|access-date=2 July 2016}}</ref> General Motors then merged Hughes Aircraft with its subsidiary [[Delco Electronics]] to create Hughes Electronics Corporation.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Hughes Electronics Corporation {{!}} American corporation|url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hughes-Electronics-Corporation|access-date=2020-10-23|website=Encyclopedia Britannica|language=en}}</ref>
Direct satellite broadcasters were mandated in 1992 to set aside 4% of its channel space for noncommercial educational and informational programming. DirecTV selected [[C-SPAN]], [[EWTN]] and the [[Trinity Broadcasting Network]] from its current channel lineup plus request additional proposals from other programmers. DirecTV had given [[PBS Kids]], PBS's original application, carriage that did not count against the set aside six weeks before the deadline. DirecTV selected an additional six channels; Clara+Vision, [[INSP (TV network)|Inspirational Life]], [[NASA TV]], [[PBS YOU]], StarNet and [[Link TV|WorldLink TV]], for the mandate.<ref>{{cite news| last1=Behrens |first1=Steve|last2=Bedford |first2=Karen Everhart|title=DirecTV okays channels from PBS and ITVS|url=http://current.org/wp-content/uploads/archive-site/in/in923d.html|access-date=February 21, 2017|work=Current|publisher=American University School of Communication|date=December 13, 1999}}</ref>
The USSB and DirecTV programming services were launched on June 17, 1994.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-1995-01-13/html/95-894.htm|title=Cable Television Act of 1992--Program Distribution and Carriage Agreements|website=Federal Communications Commission|date=January 13, 1995|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
On November 11, 1997, DirecTV signed a two-year deal with Action Adventure Network to offer original series and telefilms for pay-per-view viewing, for $2.99 with the intent to expand.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Littleton|first=Cynthia|date=1997-11-12|title=DirecTV commits: originals in|url=https://variety.com/1997/tv/news/directv-commits-originals-in-1108/|access-date=2021-12-06|website=Variety|language=en-US}}</ref>
In December 1998, DirecTV acquired [[United States Satellite Broadcasting|USSB]] for $1.3 billion, and combined the two satellite services.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.cnet.com/Hughes-buys-satellite-firm-for-1.3-billion/2100-1033_3-219066.html |title=Hughes buys satellite firm for $1.3 billion |publisher=CNET news |author=Cory Grice |date=December 14, 1998 }}</ref> In 1999, DirecTV acquired [[PrimeStar]], a competitor in the satellite television industry, for $1.83 billion, dramatically increasing its share of the satellite television market in the US.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.wired.com/techbiz/media/news/1999/01/17479 |title=DirecTV Buys PrimeStar |author=Joanna Glasner |newspaper=Wired |date=January 22, 1999 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110507080432/http://www.wired.com/techbiz/media/news/1999/01/17479 |archive-date=May 7, 2011 |df=mdy }}</ref>
[[File:DirecTV 1993.svg|thumb|200px|DirecTV logo used from 1994 to 2005]]
In 2000, DirecTV introduced the first live in-flight television service for airlines; the system was first used by [[JetBlue]] and defunct startup carrier [[Legend Airlines]].<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Goetzl |first=David |date=1 May 2000 |title=Airlines and Airwaves |magazine=[[Advertising Age]] |location=New York City |volume=71 |issue=19 |pages=18–20 }}</ref>
On April 9, 2003, News Corporation, the then-parent company of [[20th Century Fox]] (now known as [[20th Century Studios]]) and [[Fox Television Studios]], agreed to purchase a 34% controlling interest in [[Hughes Network Systems|Hughes]], including GM's entire share of the company, for $6.6 billion, subject to SEC approval.<ref name=newscorp>{{cite news|url=http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/article1128673.ece|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110808194942/http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/article1128673.ece|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 8, 2011|author=Nic Hopkins|title=News Corp buys control of DirecTV|newspaper=The Times|date=April 10, 2003|location=London}}</ref> The FCC voted 3–2 along party lines on December 19, 2003, to approve the deal subject to conditions, forcing News Corp. to agree to [[arbitration]] for all disputes with carriers of its media broadcasters, and to provide content through DirecTV neutrally rather than favoring its own networks.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna3763546 |title=FCC OKs News Corp. purchase of DirecTV|newspaper=MSNBC|date=December 19, 2004}}</ref>
[[File:DirecTV logo (2004-2011).svg|thumb|210px|DirecTV logo 2005 to 2011. The "D" symbol was used in some capacity from 1994 to 2015.]]
On January 31, 2005, Hughes announced its intent to focus solely on its satellite television operations and divest its other interests, renaming itself The DirecTV Group, Inc. on March 16, 2005, and changing its ticker symbol from "HS" to "DTV".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/944868/000119312505038986/d10k.htm |title=2004 Form 10-K, The DirecTV Group |publisher=U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission |date=March 17, 2004 }}</ref> In April of that year, it sold its controlling interest in PanAmSat to a private consortium led by [[Kohlberg Kravis Roberts]] for $3.53 billion.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2004-apr-21-fi-panamsat21-story.html |title=DirecTV Agrees to Sale of PanAmSat Unit |newspaper=L.A. Times |date=April 24, 2005 }}</ref> On April 22, 2005, DirecTV spun off Hughes Network Systems into a separate entity and sold 50% of the new entity to [[SkyTerra]], acquiring $157.4 million in the transaction.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/944868/000104746906003209/a2168249z10-k.htm |title=2005 Form 10-K, The DirecTV Group, Inc. |publisher=U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission |date=March 10, 2006 }}</ref> In January 2006, DirecTV sold its remaining 50% share in Hughes Network Systems to SkyTerra for $100 million.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hughes.com/HNS%20Library%20Press%20Release/01-03-06_SkyTerra_acquires_remaining_interest_in_HNS_LLC_from_DirecTV.htm |title=SkyTerra Communications Acquires Remaining Interest in Hughes Network Systems LLC from The DirecTV Group |date=January 3, 2006 |publisher=SkyTerra Communications, Inc. |access-date=October 19, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110215180606/http://www.hughes.com/HNS%20Library%20Press%20Release/01-03-06_SkyTerra_acquires_remaining_interest_in_HNS_LLC_from_DIRECTV.htm |archive-date=February 15, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
In 2004, DIRECTV exited the Mexican market, even though it maintained 41% ownership of [[SKY México]].<ref name="DTV Q4/Y2006">{{cite web|title=The DirecTV Group Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2006 Results |url=http://investor.directv.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=286317 |publisher=DirecTV |access-date=2013-02-08 }}</ref> On November 15, 2005, DirecTV stopped carrying [[Music Choice]] audio-only channels, replacing it with 73 channels of [[XM Satellite Radio]]. In 2007, DIRECTV exited the Brazilian market, with the customers being migrated to the 74% DirecTV-owned Brazilian affiliate of [[SKY Brasil]].<ref name="DTV Q4/Y2006"/>
On November 1, 2005, DirecTV made its foray with its first original series, CD US, on Freeview.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Dempsey|first=John|date=2005-11-02|title=DirecTV gets original with music show|url=https://variety.com/2005/music/news/directv-gets-original-with-music-show-1117932095/|access-date=2021-12-06|website=Variety|language=en-US}}</ref> In December 2005, the U.S. [[Federal Trade Commission]] imposed a $5.3 million penalty on DirecTV for its violations of federal telemarketing regulations. It was the largest civil penalty the FTC had ever announced in a case enforcing any consumer protection law.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2005/12/directv.shtm |title=DirecTV to Pay $5.3 Million Penalty for Do Not Call Violations |publisher=Ftc.gov |date=2011-06-24 |access-date=2012-08-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120926054313/http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2005/12/directv.shtm |archive-date=September 26, 2012 |df=mdy }}</ref>
In December 2006, News Corporation announced its intention to transfer its 38.5% controlling interest in The DirecTV Group, four regional [[Fox Sports Net]] stations, and $550 million cash to Liberty Media in exchange for Liberty's 19% interest in News Corp.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/money/media/2006-12-07-liberty-news_x.htm |title=Deal would give Liberty reins of DirecTV |author=David Lieberman |newspaper=USA Today |date=December 7, 2006 }}</ref> The deal, valued at $11 billion, was approved by News Corp. shareholders.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/04/business/media/04liberty.html |title=News Corp. Shareholders Accept Liberty Deal |newspaper=The New York Times |date=April 4, 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=a4JFvml25M_8 |title=Liberty Completes Swap of News Corp., DirecTV Stakes |author=Tim Mullaney |publisher=Bloomberg |date=February 27, 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://benton.org/node/24265 |title=FCC Approves Transfer of DirecTV's Station Licenses to Liberty Entertainment |author=John Eggerton |publisher=Benton Foundation |date=April 14, 2009 |access-date=September 23, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110727143239/http://benton.org/node/24265 |archive-date=July 27, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
On January 9, 2007, DirecTV announced it would introduce up to 100 national HD channels during 2007, all of which would be MPEG-4 encoded.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/01/09/directv-to-carry-100-national-hd-channels-in-2007/|title=DirecTV to carry 100 National HD Channels in 2007|publisher=Engadgethd.com|access-date=2012-08-26|archive-date=January 12, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070112053040/http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/01/09/directv-to-carry-100-national-hd-channels-in-2007/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
[[Image:DirecTV Headquarters.png|left|thumb|200px|Headquarters in California in 2013]]
On December 13, 2007, DirecTV purchased most of the assets of [[ReplayTV]] from D&M Holdings.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dm-holdings.com/eng/newsrelease/20071213_245.html |title=D&M Holdings Divests ReplayTV |publisher=Dm-holdings.com |access-date=August 26, 2012}}</ref>
In September 2008, consumers filed a class action lawsuit with the Los Angeles Superior Court to stop DirecTV's practice of charging early cancellation penalties to subscribers. In September 2009, a motion for a preliminary injunction was filed to block the company from automatically removing the fees from customers' bank accounts or charging their credit card accounts without their prior knowledge and written consent.<ref>{{cite news|title=DirecTV Takes Disputed Fees Out of Customer Accounts, Suit Charges |url=http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2009/09/directv_fees.html|access-date=August 3, 2010|newspaper=Consumer Affairs|date=September 25, 2009}}</ref> In 2009, the Washington Attorney General's office filed a civil complaint against DirecTV, finding that the company allegedly engaged in numerous repeated violations of the state's Consumer Protection Act. Violations included: unclear rebate terms and conditions, unfair advertisement, and automatically extending customer contracts.
On May 4, 2009, Liberty announced that it would split off Liberty Entertainment, Inc., and Liberty's 65% interest in [[Game Show Network]], into a separate company to be merged with The DirecTV Group.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=auGzOOELO3.0|title=DirecTV Group to Combine With Liberty Entertainment|newspaper=Bloomberg News|author=Tim Mullaney and Kelly Riddell|date=May 4, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151107022247/http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=auGzOOELO3.0|archive-date=November 7, 2015|df=mdy-all}}</ref> The merger was completed on November 19, 2009, with The DirecTV Group and Liberty Entertainment becoming subsidiaries of a new company named DirecTV.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://investor.directv.com/releasedetail.cfm?releaseid=425628|title=DirecTV Completes Merger Transaction with Liberty Media|publisher=DirecTV|date=November 19, 2009}}</ref> On June 16, 2010, Malone exchanged his [[preferred stock]] in DirecTV with equivalent amounts of [[common stock]], with Malone ending his managerial role at DirecTV.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://newsatelliteservices.com/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 15, 2017 |title=New Satellite Services |publisher=DirecTV |date=June 16, 2010 |df=mdy-all |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171015204934/http://newsatelliteservices.com/ }}</ref>
On February 9, 2010, DirecTV dropped [[Sirius XM Holdings|Sirius XM Radio]] and replaced the channel lineup with [[DMX (music)|Sonic Tap]] audio stations.<ref>{{cite web
|url=http://support.directv.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/2641 |title=Why have the Music Channels changed? |publisher=DirecTV.com |access-date=February 9, 2010 }}</ref> On April 1, 2011, DirecTV announced it would be renaming its three
|url=http://www.seattlepi.com/default/article/Get-ready-for-Root-Sports-the-next-homer-TV-914267.php#ixzz1JZsoKHEf |title=Get ready for Root Sports, the next homer TV network |newspaper=Seattle Post-Intelligencer |author=Jim Moore |date=December 21, 2010 }}</ref>
The case brought by Washington state was settled in December 2010, with DirecTV agreeing to pay over $1 million.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://atg.wa.gov/pressrelease.aspx?id=26982|title=Washington Attorney General's 1 million DirecTV settlement sends clear signal |publisher=Atg.wa.gov |date=December 14, 2010 |access-date=2013-01-16}}</ref> DirecTV subsequently settled a similar suit with the other 49 states and the District of Columbia for $13.25 million.<ref>[https://madison.com/wsj/news/local/crime_and_courts/states-reach-million-settlement-with-directv/article_e3e57376-0b8c-11e0-8864-001cc4c002e0.html States reach $13.25 million settlement with DirecTV], Associated Press (December 18, 2010).</ref><ref>[https://gantdaily.com/2010/12/15/13-25-multi-state-settlement-reached-with-directv-over-allegations-of-deceptive-advertising/ $13.25 Multi-state Settlement Reached with DirecTV over Allegations of Deceptive Advertising], ''Gant Daily'' (December 15, 2010).</ref>
In June 2013, DirecTV purchased Pennsylvania-based LifeShield, a maker of [[Burglar alarm#Wired, wireless and hybrid systems|wireless home security systems]], with plans to market the systems to its customers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/news/2013/06/05/directv-buys-firm-backed-by-michael.html |title=DirecTV buys firm backed by Michael Hagan |last=Key |first=Peter |date=June 5, 2013 |website=bizjournals.com |publisher=[[Philadelphia Business Journal]] |access-date=June 5, 2013 }}</ref>
[[File:Full Directv logo.png|thumb|right|200px|DirecTV transitional logo following purchase by AT&T from July 24 until December 31, 2015]]
[[File:DirecTV logo new.svg|thumb|Logo used from January 1, 2016, to August 1, 2021]]
[[File:DirecTVCaribbeanLogo.png|thumb|right|Logo used in Latin America and the Caribbean since 2018]]
On May 18, 2014, [[AT&T]] announced that it would purchase DirecTV for approximately $67.1 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/envelope/cotown/la-et-ct-directv-att-20140430,0,802533.story|title=AT&T interested in acquiring satellite broadcaster DirecTV |last=Flint|first=Joe|work=Los Angeles Times|date=May 1, 2014|access-date=May 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name="nyt-atatdirectv">{{cite web|url=https://dealbook.nytimes.com/2014/05/18/att-to-buy-directv-for-48-5-billion/|title=AT&T to Buy DirecTV for $48.5 Billion|last1=de la Merced|first1=Michael|last2=Gelles|first2=David|work=The New York Times|date=May 18, 2014|access-date=May 18, 2014}}</ref> The acquisition was officially approved by the FCC in 2015; it was subject to conditions for four years, requiring AT&T to expand its fiber-optic broadband service to additional customers, public libraries, and schools, and to "refrain from imposing discriminatory usage-based allowances or other discriminatory retail terms and conditions on its broadband internet service".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://deadline.com/2015/07/att-directv-merger-fcc-approval-1201484821/|title=AT&T & DirecTV Merger Gets FCC Approval – With Conditions|website=Deadline|date=July 24, 2015 |access-date=July 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/7/24/8876267/att-directv-merger-approved|title=FCC approves AT&T–DirecTV merger|website=[[The Verge]] |publisher=[[Vox Media]]|date=July 24, 2015|access-date=July 24, 2015}}</ref>
In
On
On October 20, 2016, it was reported that AT&T was in talks to acquire Time Warner, in an effort to increase its media holdings.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-10-20/at-t-said-to-discuss-idea-of-takeover-in-time-warner-meetings|title=AT&T Discussed Idea of Takeover in Time Warner Meetings|last1=Hammond|first1=Ed|last2=Sherman|first2=Alex|last3=Moritz|first3=Scott|work=Bloomberg|date=October 20, 2016|access-date=October 20, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2016/10/20/report-t-considering-buying-time-warner/92475270/|title=Report: AT&T considering buying Time Warner|last=Yu|first=Roger|work=USA Today|date=October 20, 2016|access-date=October 20, 2016}}</ref><ref name="AT&T Deal">{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/at-t-is-in-advanced-talks-to-acquire-time-warner-1477061850|title=AT&T Is in Advanced Talks to Acquire Time Warner|last1=Hagey|first1=Keach|last2=Sharma|first2=Amol|last3=Cimilluca|first3=Dana|work=The Wall Street Journal|date=October 21, 2016|access-date=October 21, 2016}}</ref> On October 22, 2016, AT&T reached a deal to buy Time Warner for over $80 billion. The merger was approved by federal regulators, bringing DirecTV under the same umbrella as [[HBO]], [[Cinemax]], [[Turner Broadcasting System]], [[Warner Bros.]], and [[Telepictures]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2016/10/22/reports-t-agrees-buy-time-warner-more-than-80b/92589816/|title=AT&T agrees to buy Time Warner for more than $80B|last=Yu|first=Roger|work=USA Today|date=October 22, 2016|access-date=October 22, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/at-t-reaches-deal-to-buy-time-warner-for-more-than-80-billion-1477157084|title=AT&T Reaches Deal to Buy Time Warner for $86 Billion|last1=Gryta|first1=Thomas|last2=Hagey|first2=Keach|last3=Cimmiluca|first3=Dana|work=The Wall Street Journal|date=October 22, 2016|access-date=October 22, 2016}}</ref>
On July 13, 2017, it was reported that AT&T would introduce a cloud-based [[Digital video recorder|DVR]] streaming service as part of its effort to create a unified platform across DIRECTV and its DIRECTV Stream service.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2017/07/13/att-directv-now-next-gen/|title=AT&T's 'next-gen' TV platform rollout will start on DirecTV Now|last=Lawler|first=Richard|work=Engadget|date=July 13, 2017|access-date=July 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2017/07/att-offer-cloud-based-dvr-streaming-services-1202127918/|title=AT&T To Offer Cloud-Based DVR To Streaming Services|last=Lieberman|first=David|work=Deadline Hollywood|date=July 13, 2017|access-date=July 13, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.streamtvinsider.com/cable/directv-now-to-finally-get-cloud-dvr-as-part-at-t-video-platform-rollout|title=DirecTV Now to finally get cloud DVR as part of AT&T video platform rollout|last=Frankel|first=Daniel|work=StreamTV Insider|date=July 13, 2017|access-date=July 13, 2017}}</ref>
On July 30, 2019, DirecTV Now customers received notices saying the name of that service had been changed to AT&T TV Now,<ref>{{Cite web|last=James|first=Meg|date=2019-07-30|title=AT&T renames DirecTV streaming service AT&T TV Now|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/business/story/2019-07-30/att-changes-name-directv-now-to-att-tv-now|access-date=2020-10-02|website=Los Angeles Times|language=en-US}}</ref> and AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson said DirecTV will continue to operate even after the launch of AT&T TV.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2019/07/att-kills-directv-now-brand-name-as-tv-subscribers-leave-in-droves/|title=AT&T kills DirecTV Now brand name as TV subscribers leave in droves|first=Jon|last=Brodkin|date=July 30, 2019|website=Ars Technica}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fiercevideo.com/video/at-t-changes-directv-now-to-at-t-tv-now|title=AT&T changes DirecTV Now to AT&T TV Now|website=FierceVideo|date=July 30, 2019 }}</ref>
On February 25, 2021, AT&T announced that it would spin-off DirecTV, U-Verse TV, and DirecTV Stream into a separate entity, selling a 30% stake to [[TPG Inc.]], while retaining a 70% stake in the new standalone company. The deal closed on August 2, 2021.<ref name="Goldsmith"/><ref name="Hayes"/>
DirecTV Stream, which offers Live TV and On Demand content, launched in August 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/8/19/22633094/att-tv-directv-stream-august-26|title=AT&T TV will officially become DirecTV Stream next week|website=Verge|date=August 19, 2021|author=Catie Keck|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref> Soon after, DirecTV's “Get Your TV Together” ad campaign launched, which featured [[Serena Williams]] and cast members of [[The Real Housewives]] alongside NFL players.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.marketingdive.com/news/campaign-trail-directv-nfl-football-real-housewives-fandom/631288/|title=Campaign Trail: DirecTV tackles football, 'Real Housewives' fandoms|website=Marketing Dive|date=September 9, 2022|author=Chris Kelly|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://adage.com/creativity/work/serena-williams-wonder-woman-directv-stream-ad/2361186|title=Serena Williams Is Wonder WOman in First Campaign for DirecTV Stream|website=Ad Age|date=August 27, 2021|author=Ann-Christine Diaz|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
In January 2022, the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission announced that DirecTV would serve as Presenting Sponsor of ''The Chairman's Party'', a [[Super Bowl]] after-party inside [[SoFi Stadium]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lasec.net/directv-to-present-the-chairmans-party-at-sofi-stadium-with-special-performance-by-8-time-grammy-winner-usher-on-the-bet-stage/|title=DirecTV To Present The Chairman's Party At Sofi Stadium, With Special Performance By 8-Time Grammy Winner Usher, On The BET Stage|website=Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission|date=January 27, 2022|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
DirecTV completed its national rollout of local [[PBS]] member stations in February 2022. Nearly 250 local PBS stations in 198 [[Media market|Nielsen DMAs]] were added that reach 99% of all U.S. TV homes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pbs.org/about/about-pbs/blogs/news/directv-stream-completes-nationwide-rollout-of-nearly-250-local-pbs-stations/|title=DirecTV Stream Completes Nationwide Rollout of Nearly 250 Local PBS Stations|website=PBS|date=February 16, 2022|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref>
In February 2023, DirecTV presented and sponsored the third annual [[American Cornhole League]] (ACL) Pro Shootout Series, where [[Tyler Lockett]] represented DirecTV.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fieldgulls.com/2023/2/8/23591253/tyler-lockett-american-cornhole-league-superhole-charity-event-seahawks-news|title=Tyler Lockett to compete in American Cornhole League 'SuperHole' charity tournament|website=Field Gulls|date=February 8, 2023|author=Mookie Alexander|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
In April 2023, DirecTV launched a brand campaign, “Overly Direct Spokesperson,” that stars [[Brian Cox (actor)|Brian Cox]]; this is part of its new brand strategy platform, “Entertainment Without Compromise”.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.marketingdive.com/news/directv-brian-cox-overly-direct-spokesperson-succession-campaign/647036/|title=DirecTV succeeds with Brian Cox as 'Overly Direct Spokesperson'|website=Marketing Dive|date=April 7, 2023|author=Chris Kelly|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref>
On September 30, 2024, AT&T announced that they would sell their remaining 70% stake to TPG Inc. for $7.6 billion. Once the transaction is completed, TPG Inc. will have 100% ownership of DirecTV, splitting the company off from AT&T for the first time since 2015. AT&T and TPG Inc. expect the sale to close in the second quarter of 2025.<ref name=":2" />
On September 30, 2024, DirecTV announced that it would [[Proposed acquisition of Dish Network by DirecTV|acquire]] rival [[Dish Network]] from [[EchoStar]] in a debt exchange transaction that includes a payment of $1 and the assumption of approximately $9.8 billion in debt. DirecTV stated its intent to support the Dish brand for the foreseeable future, and the company does not currently have plans to make changes to existing Dish operations.<ref name=":0" /> EchoStar and DirecTV expect the deal to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, contingent on regulatory approval and bondholders writing off nearly $1.6 billion in Dish-related debt.<ref name=":1" />
==Partnerships==
[[File:DIRECTV Cares Logo.png|thumb|DirecTV Cares logo]]
Since 2022, DIRECTV has partnered with Ronald McDonald House Charities and its network of local chapters.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://rmhc.org/about-us/our-partners|title=Our Partners|website=Ronald McDonald House|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref> DirecTV has also partnered with the [[Hispanic Federation]], Kids in the Spotlight, the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission, and the Plus Me Project.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lasec.net/directv-makes-long-term-commitment-to-support-championla/|title=DirecTV Makes Long-Term Commitment To Support ChampionLA|website=Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission|date=January 13, 2022|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kitsinc.org/post/kits-receives-directvxchampionla-award-at-the-chairman-s-party-in-lead-up-to-super-bowl-lvi|title=KITS Receives DirecTVxChampionLA Award at The Chairman's Party in Lead Up to Super Bowl LVI|website=Kids in the Spotlight|date=February 15, 2022|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hispanicfederation.org/our_funders/our_funders/|title=Our Funders|website=Hispanic Federation|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
[[Yahoo!|Yahoo]] and DirecTV announced an advertising deal in June 2022; under this partnership, Yahoo's [[omnichannel]] [[demand-side platform]] provided advertisers access to DirecTV's programmatic inventory on linear addressable and connected TV platforms while DirecTV gained access to Yahoo's [[supply-side platform]], making its streaming inventory available across the Yahoo Exchange.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thedrum.com/news/2022/06/20/directv-yahoo-adtech-partnership-addresses-fragmented-digital-video-landscape|title=DirecTV-Yahoo adtech partnership addresses fragmented digital video landscape|website=The Drum|date=June 20, 2022|author=John Glenday |access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/378803/yahoo-directv-advertising-expand-deal-to-include.html|title=Yahoo, DirecTV Advertising Expand Deal To Include STB Data|website=Digital News Daily|date=October 17, 2022|author=Karlene Lukovitz|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref>
In August 2022, DIRECTV and [[Amazon Prime]] announced a multi-year agreement for airing [[National Football League|NFL]] ''[[Thursday Night Football]]'' games in over 300,000 venues. Amazon Prime holds exclusive rights to TNF games for 12 seasons beginning in 2022.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2022/08/23/amazon-signs-deal-with-directv-to-air-thursday-night-football-games-in-bars.html|title=Amazon Prime signs deal with DirecTV to air 'Thursday Night Football' games in bars, restaurants|website=CNBC|date=August 23, 2022|author=Lilliam Rizzo|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref> DirecTV is also the national provider of MLS Season Pass, a new subscription service from [[Apple TV|Apple]] and [[Major League Soccer]], to commercial establishments such as bars, lounges and restaurants. The offering is known as ''DirecTV for Business''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/directv-tmajor-league-soccer-apple-1235525189/|title=DirecTV To Provide Major League Soccer Games to Bars, Hotels for 2023 Season|website=Variety|date=February 16, 2023|author=Brian Steinberg|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref>
Yahoo expanded its partnership with DirecTV advertising to include [[set-top box]] data in October 2022.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/378803/yahoo-directv-advertising-expand-deal-to-include.html|title=Yahoo, DirecTV Advertising Expand Deal To Include STB Data|website=Digital News Daily|date=October 17, 2022|author=Karlene Lukovitz|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
In June 2023, [[Southwest Airlines]] and DirecTV partnered together to support RMHC by providing meals for families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in [[Dallas]], Texas.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://community.southwest.com/t5/Blog/Southwest-Airlines-amp-DIRECTV-Partner-Together-to-Serve-Ronald/ba-p/159453|title=Southwest Airlines & DirecTV Partner Together to Serve Ronald McDonald House Charities|website=Southwest Airlines|date=June 2, 2023|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref> The same month, DirecTV announced a multi-year renewal of its affiliation agreement with NFL Media that will extend its existing carriage of NFL Network on DirecTV and will add distribution via DirecTV Stream and U-verse.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nfl.com/news/directv-announces-renewal-expansion-of-carriage-agreement-with-nfl-media|title=DirecTV announces renewal, expansion of carriage agreement with NFL Media|website=NFL|date=June 27, 2023|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
In August 2023, [[Big Ten Network]] and [[Big Ten Conference]] announced a multi-year sponsorship agreement with DirecTV.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://btn.com/2023/08/29/directv-and-big-ten-conference-announce-landmark-sponsorship/#:~:text=BTN%20Communications%2C%20August%2029%2C%202023,most%20storied%20collegiate%20athletic%20conference.|title=DirecTV and Big Ten Conference Announce Landmark Sponsorship|website=BTN|date=August 29, 2023|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref>
DirecTV became the exclusive provider of NFL Sunday Ticket across [[Puerto Rico]] and the [[Virgin Islands|U.S. Virgin Islands]] in September 2023.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2023/09/08/nfl-sunday-ticket-puerto-rico-virgin-islands-directv.aspx|title=DirecTV to offer 'Sunday Ticket' in P.R., USVI|website=Sports Business Journal|date=September 8, 2023|author=John Ourand|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref>
DirecTV is sponsoring the [[United States national baseball team|US Baseball Team]] in the [[2023 World Baseball Classic]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usabaseball.com/news/topic/professional/directv-is-sponsoring-team-usa-in-the-2023-world-baseball-classic|title=DirecTV Is Sponsoring Team USA in the 2023 World Baseball Classic|website=USA Baseball|date=March 10, 2023|access-date=November 22, 2023}}</ref>
==Satellites==
{{main|DirecTV satellite fleet}}
{{
==Devices==
[[File:Gemini GP.jpg|thumb|Gemini GP]]
[[File:HR54 GP.jpg|thumb|HR54 GP]]
===Launch (1994–1998)===
DirecTV's initial service offering was characterized by the delivery of all-digital standard definition national channels to locations in the lower 48 states. This allowed households without available cable television service to receive national channels. In these early years, receivers were manufactured with brands including RCA and GE ([[Vantiva|Thomson]] of France) and [[Sony|Sony Electronics]].<ref name=DTV>{{cite web|publisher=DirecTV|url=http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPage.jsp?assetId=P4900010|title=DirecTV and TiVo to Launch New HD DirecTV DVR with TiVo Service|date=September 3, 2008|access-date=September 4, 2008}}</ref> When DirecTV launched a few High Definition channels in the late 1990s, other CE manufacturers joined in with HD capable receivers under their own brands which helped promote sales of their early generation HD television products. These additional company brands included [[Samsung Electronics]], [[Philips]], [[Panasonic]], [[Mitsubishi Electric|Mitsubishi Electronics]], and [[Toshiba]].<ref name=DTV/> Features that were innovative at the time included: a fully interactive program guide, parental controls (i.e. allowed parents to passcode protect channels having R-rated content), and pay-per-view (allowing rentals via remote control instead of having to call DirecTV for authorization). The initial generation of antennas was 18-inch diameter (46 cm) with a single feed (consisting of a feedhorn and LNB electronics) that could downlink digital television signals from DirecTV's satellites at the 101 degrees West geostationary orbital position.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-45704A1.txt|title=Mitre Technical Report|website=FCC|date=April 2001|access-date=October 12, 2023}}</ref>
===Locals era (1999–2003)===
DirecTV receiver modifications accommodated local channels, including multi-orbital slot reception and an improved electronic program guide featuring TV listings up to two weeks. The first locals-era DirecTV outdoor antenna was a follow-up generation with a 18x24-inch diameter (46x61 cm) elliptical reflector and three feeds that additionally allowed “multi-sat” reception from DIRECTV satellites at the 119W and 110W positions.
===HD (1999–2003)===
DirecTV launched new network components dedicated to HD channels. The new network components allowed DirecTV to address challenges with customers experiencing different user interfaces depending on the brand of DirecTV receiver they used, by specifying a “common user experience.” DirecTV's designs were built with companies including [[Pace plc|Pace Micro Technology]] of Britain, [[LG Electronics|LG]] of South Korea (which had manufactured boxes under the LG and [[Zenith Electronics]] names), Thomson, GE (under license), and [[ProScan]].<ref name=DTV/>
DirecTV's initial satellites used Ku band frequencies. With the launch of new satellites utilizing [[Ku band]] frequencies, DirecTV increased its available signal bandwidth more than six-fold to meet the requirements of the higher resolution HD television pictures. DirecTV also maintained its original fleet of satellites in operation at 101W, 110W and 119W longitudes and simulcasted the SD and HD versions of channels once made available. These new DirecTV HD channels required an H20/HR20 or later model set top box capable of supporting the MPEG-4 standard for HD programming. These models also introduced HDMI support for HDTVs with an HDMI port.
A new “Slimline” outdoor antenna design was introduced, capable of receiving both the Ka Band satellites located at 99W and 103W longitude as well for a total of 5 LNBs. Over time, DirecTV has consolidated HD programming onto solely the 99W, 101W and 103W slots allowing for the use of a Slimline antenna having 3 LNBs instead of 5.
===Genie (2008–2013)===
Video On-Demand (VOD) features were enabled, allowing a viewer to “start over” a program, “look back” at a program that had recently aired, watch prior episodes that weren't presently aired, and see advertising according to that viewer's characteristics. “Whole-home” viewing allowed viewers to access and view their DVR recordings from any room in the house, not just the room where the DVR receiver was located.
In 2012, DirecTV launched its “Genie” family of receiver models, consisting of a “Genie” home server and “mini Genie” devices. Having 5 satellite tuners, the Genie offered live viewing of up to four channels while simultaneously recording a program on a fifth channel. Up to eight mini-Genies could be installed in a home, however simultaneous live viewing was possible on any four of the devices (including the Genie itself).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.solidsignal.com/showthread.php/3860-Solid-Signal-goes-quot-Hands-On-quot-with-the-new-HR44-Genie-DVR |title=Solid Signal goes "Hands On" with the new HR44 Genie DVR – The Solid Signal Blog |date=January 18, 2013 |publisher=Forums.solidsignal.com |access-date=2016-01-07}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2012-10-11-directv-genie-dvr-and-interface-launch-with-advice-for-indecisive.html|title=DirecTV Genie DVR and interface launch with advice for the indecisive|website=Engadget|date=July 19, 2019|author=Jon Fingas|access-date=October 12, 2023}}</ref>
In addition, DirecTV integrated WiFi wireless home networking to connect set-top boxes to broadband services. DirecTV incorporated RVU remote user interface technology, allowing a single DirecTV receiver to transmit both video/audio and user screen direction to compatible television sets.<ref name=RVU>{{cite web|url=https://rvuproject.org/history-rvu|title=History of RVU|website=RVU|access-date=October 12, 2023}}</ref> DirecTV also developed capabilities to “download and go” DVR recordings (“GenieGo”) and to stream recordings to devices while out of home.
===2014–present===
DirecTV introduced limited 4K UltraHD and High Dynamic Range broadcasts. The first nationwide 4K UltraHD broadcasts were made available by DirecTV, and DirecTV offered large sporting events in the format as well as PPV movie rentals and 4K channels. The 4K capable DirecTV miniGenie client (model C61K-700) also became available.<ref name=RVU/>
A “Genie 2” device, HS17, was introduced in 2017 that added more satellite tuners and integrated the WVB functionality.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://manuals.plus/directv/directv-genie-2-product-manual#google_vignette|title=DirecTV Genie 2 Product Manual|website=Manuals Plus|date=March 20, 2021|access-date=October 12, 2023}}</ref>
DirecTV began delivering broadband-only services requiring no DirecTV branded equipment whatsoever. Under its new owner AT&T, mobile-device-only television packages were developed (i.e. WatchTV). The DirecTV Stream device (model C71KW) became available in 2019 to customers of over-the-top (OTT) streaming service.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.att.com/ecms/dam/att/consumer/support/landingpage/userguides/pdf/ATT-TV-Device-Remote-Control-Manual.pdf|title=User Manual|website=AT&T|access-date=October 12, 2023}}</ref>
In 2023, DirecTV released Gemini, combining mini-Genie capabilities with the same features developed for the DirecTV stream device.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/reviewed/2023/07/27/directv-stream-gemini-air/70478696007/|title=DirecTV just launched the Gemini Air—its new device for 4K content streaming|website=USA Today|date=|author=Jada Kennzie|access-date=October 12, 2023}}</ref>
==Access card history==
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* P3, also known as HU cards, were introduced in 1999 and were used until April 2004. HU cards have a picture of a football player, a basketball, a clapperboard, and a film canister on the front. HU cards originally shipped with receivers with serial numbers above 0001 700 000. These were removed from circulation because piracy plagued the system.
* P4 cards were introduced in 2002 and are currently still in use. P4 cards are labeled "Access Card: 4."
* D1 cards were introduced in 2004 following compatibility problems with the P4 cards in some receivers. These cards can be identified by the silver edges, and simply bear the word "DirecTV" on the front (no number). Usually found on DirecTV TiVo Series 2 DVRs (DirecTiVos), the D10 and H10 series receivers.
* D2/P12 cards were introduced in 2005. D2 cards can be identified by a two-toned blue dot pattern resembling the DirecTV logo in addition to the DirecTV logo and the words "DirecTV Access Card," while the P12 card has a picture of a satellite on the front. The P12 card is the only card that will work with R15, H20, and HR20 series receivers.
* O cards are the current "standard issue" card. They can be identified with the words "Now part of the AT&T family."
DirecTV has battled with an active signal piracy underground for many years. One infamous event that temporarily hampered pirates was known as 'Black Sunday', which took place one week before Super Bowl Sunday in 2001. Hackers saw a string of software updates starting in late 2000
<ref>{{cite news |last=Huffstutter |first=P.J. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2001-jan-27-mn-17728-story.html |title=Satellite Blows TV Pirates Right Off the Tube |newspaper=LA Times|date=2001-01-27|access-date=2024-01-04}}</ref>
==High-definition television (HDTV)==
[[File:DirecTV 5 LNB Slimline 2012 06 08.jpg|right|thumb|DirecTV AU9-S 3-LNB "Slimline" [[satellite dish]]]]
[[File:Directv 5lnb dish.jpg|right|thumb|DirecTV AT-9 5-LNB "Sidecar" [[satellite dish]]]]
[[File:DirecTV Dish Antenna HD.jpg|right|thumb|DirecTV WNC SF6 Gray HD 2-LNB "Round" [[satellite dish]], used only in
Like its competitors, DirecTV offers [[high-definition television]] (HDTV) and interactive services.
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Receiving channels encoded in MPEG-4 requires newer receivers, such as the H20 as well as the 5-LNB K<sub>a</sub>/K<sub>u</sub> dish. DirecTV has contracted with Britain's [[Pace Micro Technology]], Korea's [[LG Electronics]] and France's [[Thomson SA|Thomson]] to manufacture these new receivers. Pace manufactures the DirecTV Plus HD DVR (Model HR20-700, and HR21-700) and [[LG Electronics]] offers the Model H20-600 receiver, while Thomson provides the Model H20-100 and HR20-100 DVR receivers. DirecTV has admitted to software issues with some of the H20 receivers and HR20 DVRs, which have been plagued with random problems since they were released in mid-2006. DirecTV regularly released software updates for the HR20 receivers, in an effort to reduce issues to an acceptable level.
DirecTV has phased out its original [[TiVo]]-branded HD DVR, the HR10-250, which can only decode the older MPEG-2 signals. All DirecTV-delivered local HDTV stations (outside of the NYC and LA network stations) are encoded in MPEG-4. The HR10-250 cannot receive the MPEG-4 local HDTV stations in these markets but can still receive over-the-air [[ATSC Standards|ATSC]] broadcasts in these markets. After a multi-year hiatus, TiVo and DirecTV are developing a new TiVo-enabled HD DVR that will be able to receive/decode DirecTV's current MPEG-4 satellite signals. Originally slated for release in the second half of 2009, it is now available in select markets.<ref name="2011-12-08-tivo">{{cite web |url=http://www.tivo.com/products/source/satellite/tivo-directv/ |title=DirecTV TiVo – DirecTV DVR with TiVo service – TiVo |publisher=TiVo |date=December 8, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125073343/http://www.tivo.com/products/source/satellite/tivo-directv/ |archive-date=January 25, 2012 |df=mdy }}</ref><ref name="2011-12-08-directv">{{cite web|title=HD DVR – Tivo® for DirecTV |url=http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/content/technology/tivo_receiver|publisher=DirecTV| date=December 8, 2011}}</ref>
==4K television==
In November 2014, DirecTV became the first television provider to begin offering [[4K resolution|4K]] [[ultra-high definition]] content. On launch, 4K content was limited to renting a small library of on-demand films, downloaded to the subscriber's Genie DVR (some 4K content can also be pre-loaded automatically to the set-top box via the Genie Recommends feature). The 4K service could also only be used on "DirecTV 4K Ready" televisions, which support [[RVU protocol]]; this was limited to selected [[Samsung Electronics|Samsung]] 4K televisions released in 2014.<ref name="cnet-4kdirectv">{{cite web|title=DirecTV launches 4K exclusive to Samsung TVs|url=https://www.cnet.com/news/directv-launches-4k-exclusively-to-samsung-tvs/|website=CNET|access-date=15 April 2016}}</ref>
In 2015, DirecTV introduced 4K Genie Mini set-top boxes, which can be connected to any [[HDMI]] 2.0/[[High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection|HDCP]] 2.2-compliant devices to provide 4K video.<ref name="techhive-directv4kgenie">{{cite
In April 2016, DirecTV began live sports broadcasts in 4K to eligible subscribers, including coverage from the [[2016 Masters Tournament]],<ref name="engadget-directv4k">{{cite web|title=DirecTV's first live 4K show is the Masters golf tournament|url=https://www.engadget.com/2016/03/09/directv-first-live-4k-show/|website=Engadget|access-date=12 March 2016}}</ref><ref name="svg-masters4k">{{cite web|title=The Masters in 4K: DirecTV, CBS Sports Tee Up First Live 4K UHD Broadcast in U.S.|url=http://www.sportsvideo.org/2016/03/09/directv-tees-up-first-live-4k-production-at-the-masters/|website=Sports Video Group|date=March 9, 2016 |access-date=12 March 2016}}</ref> 25 ''[[MLB Network]] Showcase'' baseball games in the 2016 season (subject to local [[Major League Baseball blackout policy|blackout restrictions]]) beginning April 15, 2016,<ref name="variety-4kmlbn">{{cite web|title=DirecTV to Carry MLB Network Games in 4K Ultra HD|url=https://variety.com/2016/digital/news/directv-mlb-4k-ultra-hd-1201751249/|website=Variety|date=April 12, 2016 |access-date=14 April 2016}}</ref> and all [[Notre Dame Football on NBC|Notre Dame college football]] home games during the 2016 season.<ref name="mcn-4knd">{{cite web|title=DirecTV To Offer Notre Dame Football Telecasts In 4K|url=http://www.multichannel.com/news/content/directv-offer-notre-dame-football-telecasts-4k/407605|website=Multichannel News|date=September 8, 2016 |access-date=12 September 2016}}</ref>
==
{{See also|Audience (TV network)}}[[File:JetBlue DIRECTV.jpg|thumb|JetBlue promotes DirecTV on board Airbus A320 N510JB "Out of the Blue."]] [[File:DTV-plane2.jpg|thumb|DirecTV on board a jetBlue plane]]DirecTV's exclusive general entertainment channel '''Audience Network''' had dozens of original and acquired programs. The channel ceased operations in 2020. Separately, DirecTV had its own exclusive [[3DTV]] channel called [[n3D]] that launched in 2010 and shut down in 2012.
DirecTV serves [[American Airlines]], [[Delta Air Lines]], [[JetBlue]], [[Southwest Airlines]], and [[United Airlines]].
DirecTV previously owned the regional sports networks [[AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh]], [[AT&T SportsNet Southwest]], [[AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain]], and [[Root Sports Northwest]] (all under the umbrella of [[AT&T Sports Networks]]). It also owned minority shares of [[Game Show Network]] and [[MLB Network]]. DirecTV was also the exclusive U.S. rights holder to the [[NFL Sunday Ticket]], from the sports package's debut in the [[1994 NFL season]] to the [[2022 NFL season]], before [[YouTube TV]] picked up NFL Sunday Ticket for the [[2023 NFL season]]. It also exclusively carries the "DirecTV Experience", which includes bonus coverage of [[Men's major golf championships|men's major golf tournaments]] and [[Grand Slam (tennis)|Grand Slam tennis tournaments]], including live feeds not available on other networks such as [[CBS]] (formerly), [[NBC]], [[ESPN]], [[Golf Channel]] and [[Tennis Channel]] that cover the events. DirecTV was also the exclusive provider of defunct sports packages [[NASCAR Hot Pass]] and Mega March Madness.
DirecTV offers movie and special event programming through the [[DirecTV Cinema]] service; originally a [[pay-per-view]] service (with programs purchased either over the phone, or via remote if a phone line was connected to the DirecTV receiver), advances in technology have enabled DirecTV to expand into a true [[video on demand]] service; access to this service requires an internet connection.
===Sports packages for businesses===
With streaming providers such as [[ESPN+]], [[Amazon Prime Video]], and [[Apple TV+]] signing deals to exclusively stream selected sports events, DirecTV has become an alternative for commercial establishments, such as bars, restaurants and casinos, to show these games. This provides a loophole in the streaming providers' licensing terms that normally prohibit their commercial use in commercial establishments where the business makes money. In addition, these establishments do not have to reconfigure their systems to accommodate a streaming-only platform.<ref name="cnet"/>
Beginning in 2021, DirecTV became an exclusive provider of [[ESPN+ for Business]], which carries limited live sporting events that are otherwise streamed on an ESPN+ consumer account. This package is sold directly by [[Joe Hand Sr.#Joe Hand Promotions|Joe Hand Promotions]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kohler |first1=Katie |title=Joe Hand Promotions Still Fighting After 50 Years Thanks To Added Punch From Streaming, Barstool, and Streaming |url=https://www.playpennsylvania.com/joe-hand-promotions-50-streaming-rough-rowdy/ |access-date=5 October 2022 |work=Play Pennsylvania |publisher=Catena Media |date=21 October 2021 |location=Feasterville, PA}}</ref> On August 23, 2022, [[Amazon (company)|Amazon]] and DirecTV entered into a multi-year carriage agreement to broadcast ''[[Thursday Night Football]]'' only to business customers at no extra cost.<ref name="cnet">{{cite web |title=DirecTV and Prime Video to Host Thursday Night Football |url=https://www.directv.com/insider/directv-and-prime-video-thursday-night-football/ |website=DirecTV Insider |date=23 August 2022}}</ref> In 2023, DirecTV signed an exclusive deal with Apple TV+ to broadcast ''[[MLS Season Pass]]'' and ''[[Friday Night Baseball]]'', which both packages include in-market and out of market teams from each respective league, to its business customers only.<ref>{{cite web |title=DirecTV for Business to make MLS season pass available to commercial locations in the U.S. |url=https://www.directv.com/insider/directv-for-business-and-mls-season-pass/ |website=DirecTV Insider |access-date=27 February 2024 |date=16 February 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=DirecTV for Business To Bring Apple TV+ 'Friday Night Baseball' Doubleheaders Exclusively To Commercial Locations Across The U.S. |url=https://www.directv.com/insider/directv-for-business-apple-mlb-partnership/ |website=DirecTV Insider |access-date=27 February 2024 |date=22 March 2023 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240227093722/https://www.directv.com/insider/directv-for-business-apple-mlb-partnership/ |archive-date= 27 February 2024 }}</ref> Later in 2023, it was also announced that DirecTV would retain the rights to NFL Sunday Ticket for business customers only.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/directv-will-keep-nfl-sunday-ticket-in-bars-restaurants-hotels/|title= DirecTV Will Keep NFL Sunday Ticket in Bars, Restaurants and Hotels
|website=CNET|date=May 25, 2023|author=Eli Blumenthal|access-date=September 27, 2023}}</ref>
==Marketing==
Beginning in 2006, DirecTV began a series of [[commercials]] in which characters from popular movies and television shows [[break the fourth wall]] to tout the service's picture quality and the number of channels available in high definition. Instead of using [[computer-generated imagery|CGI]], the original actors normally reprise their roles on recreated sets, and resulting footage is mixed with the original scenes. The productions are recent and appeal to DirecTV's "male-oriented marketing message."<ref name="farhi">Farhi, Paul. "[https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/06/AR2007080601540.html Scene 1, Double Take 2]" ''The Washington Post'', August 7, 2007.</ref> These characters include [[James T. Kirk|Captain Kirk]] ([[William Shatner]], ''[[Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country]]''), Bill Harding ([[Bill Paxton]], ''[[Twister (1996 film)|Twister]]''), The Economics Teacher ([[Ben Stein]], ''[[Ferris Bueller's Day Off]]''), [[Dr. Emmett Brown]] ([[Christopher Lloyd]], ''[[Back to the Future]]''), [[Burton Guster]] ([[Dulé Hill]], ''[[Psych]]''), [[C.J. Parker]] ([[Pamela Anderson]], ''[[Baywatch]]''), Rick "Wild Thing" Vaughn ([[Charlie Sheen]], ''[[Major League (film)|Major League]]''), [[Beyoncé Knowles|Beyoncé]] ([[Upgrade U]] music video), Nadia ([[Shannon Elizabeth]], ''[[American Pie (film)|American Pie]]''), [[Turtle (Entourage)|Turtle]] ([[Jerry Ferrara]], ''[[Entourage (
DirecTV during that time also ran a series of ads that take shots at cable television's service (or lack of service). Beginning in March 2010, they did a spoof of the classic game show ''[[To Tell The Truth]]'' with [[Alex Trebek]] hosting the show. The series of commercials both pays homage to the [[Goodson-Todman]] game show
===DirecTV blimp===
[[File:DirecTV Blimp over Las Vegas.jpg|thumb|DirecTV blimp flying over West Las Vegas during the [[Consumer Electronics Show]] 2015]]
The DirecTV blimp named "lefty" was launched in October 2007 at the [[MLB]] [[World Series]] in [[Boston]] and has been seen all over the
==Customer service==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible" style="float:right;"
|-
!Year
!style="text-align:right;"|Subscribers
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|1994
|style="text-align:right;"|320,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|1995
|style="text-align:right;"|1,200,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|1996
|style="text-align:right;"|2,300,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|1997
|style="text-align:right;"|3,301,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|1998
|style="text-align:right;"|4,458,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|1999
|style="text-align:right;"|6,679,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2000
|style="text-align:right;"|9,554,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2001
|style="text-align:right;"|10,218,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2002
|style="text-align:right;"|11,181,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2003
|style="text-align:right;"|12,290,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2004
|style="text-align:right;"|13,000,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2005
|style="text-align:right;"|15,000,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2006
|style="text-align:right;"|15,950,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2007
|style="text-align:right;"|16,830,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2008
|style="text-align:right;"|17,620,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2009
|style="text-align:right;"|18,081,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2010
|style="text-align:right;"|19,200,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2012
|style="text-align:right;"|19,900,000
|-
|style="text-align:center;"|2014
|style="text-align:right;"|20,265,000
|}
[[File:DirectTV service van Ypsilanti Township, Michigan.JPG|thumb|right|DirecTV service van in [[Ypsilanti Township, Michigan]]. DirecTV equipment is installed and maintained by private contractors such as [[Multiband]], as shown here. In most areas of the United States, installation, upgrades, and service are performed by DirecTV Home Services, a division of DirecTV corporate. ]]
DirecTV was awarded a [[J.D. Power award]] for residential cable and satellite TV customer satisfaction in 2007.<ref>[http://www.cable360.net/voice/DirecTV-Sweeps-J-D-Power-Survey_25138.html DirecTV Sweeps J.D. Power Survey] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716170431/http://www.cable360.net/voice/DirecTV-Sweeps-J-D-Power-Survey_25138.html |date=July 16, 2011 }} Cable360.net August 15, 2007</ref>
DirecTV's customer service is provided by many third-party owned call centers both inside and outside the United States. Most of the call centers are contracted to provide agents to answer customer phone calls regarding programming, billing, or technical questions.
Line 276 ⟶ 302:
===Better Business Bureau review===
In August 2008, ''[[The Boston Globe]]'' reported that DirecTV received 20,000 complaints in less than three years to the [[Better Business Bureau]] on DirecTV slipping in cancellation fees.<ref>
In August 2010, the BBB reported that it had received 39,000 complaints against DirecTV in the previous three years, and the BBB gave it an F (failing) grade. Many of the complaints concerned DirecTV's early termination fees, billing and service issues.<ref name="DirecTV Customer Service: Fail">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbb.org/us/post/directv-customer-service-fail-5588 |access-date=2013-03-20 |title=DirecTV Customer Service: Fail |website=U.S. BBB |first1=Greg |last1=Hudson |date=August 6, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130425234855/http://www.bbb.org/us/post/directv-customer-service-fail-5588 |archive-date=April 25, 2013 |df=mdy }}</ref>
==International operations==
* [[Sky PerfecTV!]] – sold to [[SKY Perfect JSAT Corporation]]
* [[Vrio Corp.|DirecTV Latin America]] – renamed
* [[Sky Brasil]] – sold to [[Werthein Group|Grupo Werthein]]
* [[Sky México]] –
==See also==
* [[High-definition television in the United States]]
* [[Out-of-market sports package]]
==References==
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==External links==
* {{Official website|https://www.directv.com/}}
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