DirecTV Now is a new service that was just released near the end of 2016. It allows users to stream live TV on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Although the service has had its issues in the past, it is working just as it should now. For this review, we are covering the Gotta Have It package.Â
My favorite feature about the service is the channel availability. On its most expensive package, you get over 120 channels! That is plenty of viewing for one person, especially for half the price of cable and satellite.
An issue I found early on was the on-demand programming availability. The issue was that after it aired, users could not watch the season 10 premiere of Doctor Who that aired last Saturday night. When streaming movies, you still have to watch commercials. Granted, the movies are via FXM’s recently played movies, for the price that you’re paying for TV, you should not have to watch commercials.
Quality wise, this service is pretty amazing. I did run into a little bit of lag every 10-15 minutes on my iPhone and on DirecTV Now’s website, but other than that it works perfectly. I have yet to come across any lag on the Apple TV.
However, when streaming it on the service’s website, I found that when streaming content and clicking the “Guide” button, it takes you away from the program you are watching. This is annoying because sometimes you just want to see what is on but don’t want to leave what you are watching. Plus, it’s a good way to pass the time when commercials come on.
When using the Apple TV, it allows the program you are watching to be transparent in the background while in the Guide. This is how it should be on the website and app (smartphone and tablet). Essentially, the Apple TV version of the app is how the smartphone and tablet apps should be.
Due to my location, I was unable to test the quality of streaming local stations such as ABC, CBS, NBC, etc.
Channel selection is pretty good and has a very well-rounded selection of channels to pick from. It’s great for both movie lovers and sports watchers. There is definitely something for the whole family to enjoy.
Overall, I’m giving DirecTV Now 3.5/4 stars. The service is pretty stellar for only being out for a few months and despite its early problems, the service has been able to bounce back and be something great for consumers. It has still has some problems it could address, but at the end of the day, it’s a good service at a great price.
Rating: 3.5/4 Stars
