DIRECTV Becomes a Standalone Video Business Following an Agreement Between AT&T and TPG Capital

DIRECTV Becomes a Standalone Video Business Following an Agreement Between AT&T and TPG Capital
DIRECTV announced today that AT&T and TPG Capital have closed on their previously publicized agreement to establish DIRECTV as a separate video company. Under this new company, DIRECTV owns and operates the former AT&T U.S. and Puerto Rico video business unit consisting of satellite, streaming and IP video services. The new structure will allow greater focus, flexibility and resources to best position the business to succeed in the long term as well as deliver on a commitment to current and future customers, employees and shareholders.

“This is a watershed moment for DIRECTV as we return to a singular focus on providing a stellar video experience, ” said Bill Morrow, CEO-DIRECTV. “Building on our recent momentum, we are well-positioned to bring unparalleled choice and value to all of our customers under one iconic brand whether they beam it or stream it.”

For those who stream it, DIRECTV STREAM will become the single brand later this month for video streaming services previously launched by AT&T, excluding HBO Max. It will continue to be available with no service contract or hidden fees. To enjoy the best of Live TV and On Demand customers can either bring their own streaming device or use our exclusive streaming device.* Those with our streaming device can build a complete, integrated and customized entertainment experience with the ability to watch and pause live TV on up to 20 devices in their home. It also allows consumers to get all their favorite entertainment in one place with easy access to apps like HBO Max, Netflix, Prime Video and more.

For those who beam it over satellite, DIRECTV service offers the most live sports in 4K HDR, including the most NBA games in 4k, and the industry’s best picture format. DIRECTV remains the undisputed leader in sports programming, including NFL Sunday Ticket which remains the only way to watch every out-of-market game LIVE every Sunday afternoon no matter where in the United States. DIRECTV also empowers customers to watch movies and shows from virtually anywhere – on TVs at home, along with their favorite mobile devices using the DIRECTV app.

Throughout the next several months DIRECTV will prominently feature the bold new look across the video services, and new and existing customers will experience several touchpoints with it.

Finally, it’s important to note that as a part of the deal, customers who were previously AT&T satellite, streaming or IP video subscribers automatically keep their video service and any bundled wireless or internet services, including HBO Max.

For more information on the terms of the deal, please see the AT&T press release

*Requires purchase of DIRECTV device (sold separately)

DIRECTV Insider brings you our views on what’s happening in streaming, t.v., movies and sports. Companies and persons mentioned are not necessarily associated with and do not necessarily endorse DIRECTV. We will disclose sponsored content on our site when we show it to you, and some of the links on the site may be ads or affiliate links which means DIRECTV may earn compensation from your purchases.