DIRECTV Via Internet Review
DIRECTV via Internet was a live TV streaming service that delivered the full DIRECTV experience over the internet — no satellite dish required. It included local channels and many of the top cable channels. New subscribers could get a free Gemini streaming device that functions like a traditional cable or satellite box.
Now, DIRECTV via Internet is no longer a separate service — it has been fully integrated into the main DIRECTV service. Whether you choose satellite or internet delivery, it’s now simply called DIRECTV.
Review
We tested DIRECTV via Internet and other live TV streaming services for more than 100 hours. DIRECTV via Internet is compatible with Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Android TV, Mac, Windows, LG Smart TV, Samsung Smart TV, Sony Smart TV, and VIZIO Smart TV.
Features
Profiles
DIRECTV doesn’t support user profiles. Your DVR and favorite channels will be shared with everyone on the account.
No Parental Controls
There are no parental controls for DIRECTV Via Internet.
Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, Netflix, Paramount Plus, Peacock, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, and STARZ have parental control features.
Up to 20 Devices
You can use DIRECTV via Internet on up to 20 simultaneous devices on the same home network, or up to three devices while traveling outside your home. Note that each TV requires a Gemini device, which is priced at $7 per TV.
Compatible Devices
DIRECTV Via Internet is compatible with these devices:
- Amazon Fire TV
- Roku
- Android TV
- Mac
- Windows
- LG Smart TV
- Samsung Smart TV (2017+)
- Sony Smart TV
- VIZIO Smart TV
DIRECTV Via Internet is not compatible with Apple TV 4K, Google Chromecast, iPhone/iPad (iOS 12+), Android Phone/Tablet (4.4+), PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, or onn devices.
Add-Ons
Tech Specs
720p HD
(Up to 1080p HD)
Most video streams are in 720p HD. Some video streams are available in 1080p HD.
60 FPS
Most video streams in 60 FPS.
Some Surround
Stereo/Surround Sound
Most content has stereo audio, with some content available in surround sound.
Reliability
DIRECTV Via Internet has unreliable on demand performance.
Live Delay
Live Delay
Live content is about 20 seconds behind cable TV.
Channel Switching
Channel Switching
It takes about 3 seconds seconds to switch between channels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does DIRECTV Via Internet cost?
DIRECTV Via Internet is available starting at TBD / month. See the full list: DIRECTV Via Internet Pricing & Plans
Does DIRECTV Via Internet have a free trial?
DIRECTV Via Internet is not available to sign up.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet have a DVR?
DIRECTV Via Internet includes Unlimited of Cloud DVR storage.
How many streams are allowed at once on DIRECTV Via Internet?
DIRECTV Via Internet allows up to 20 devices at the same time. See more details: DIRECTV Via Internet Simultaneous Streams
Does DIRECTV Via Internet have local channels?
Does DIRECTV Via Internet have live sports?
Sports channels are not available on DIRECTV Via Internet.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet offer premium channels?
Premium channels are not available on DIRECTV Via Internet.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet offer on demand content?
DIRECTV Via Internet includes on demand content from most of the channels they offer. Unlike content on your DVR, you won’t be able to skip ads.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet support TV Everywhere apps?
DIRECTV Via Internet includes access to many TV Eveywhere Apps with your DIRECTV Via Internet credentials. See the full list: DIRECTV Via Internet TV Everywhere Apps.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet have a TV Guide?
DIRECTV Via Internet includes a TV Guide similar to what you would get with your cable or satellite set-top box.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet have ads?
DIRECTV Via Internet includes ads during live viewing of shows, as well on all on-demand content. You can skip ads when you watch shows recorded to your DVR.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet offer 4K streaming?
DIRECTV Via Internet does not include 4K content as part of the service.
Does DIRECTV Via Internet offer Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound?
DIRECTV Via Internet includes select content with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound as part of the service. It may only work on certain devices.