AT&T launches new DirecTV Now streaming service

AT&T has announced the launch of its latest OTT video services offering more than 100 channels of television for $35 per month.

$35 per month is the amount for the base package which is generally cheaper than a traditional pay TV service, and also than DirecTV’s own satellite TV service. The new offering is designed for those customers who have dropped cable or are currently entertaining the idea, as the platform is designed with a mobile-first mentality. Potential customers could include those unlikely to pass credit checks or those in rented accommodation unable to commit to long contracts.

“We’re extending our entertainment portfolio for those who value premium content but also want more TV freedom suited for their lifestyle, whether watching at home or on their mobile devices. This is TV your way,” said John Stankey, CEO of the AT&T Entertainment Group. “Our new customer-centric offers show that mobility and entertainment are better together.”

The team also highlighted it would be sticking to it plan to zero-rate the offering for customers who are also AT&T Mobility customer’s. The practise of zero-rating, a telco offering services that do not count against a customer’s data usage plan, has become increasingly common in recent months though the FCC recently wrote to AT&T SVP Robert Quinn to express concerns over the zero-rating DirecTV.

While the FCC position on net neutrality would have put this offer under threat, recent appointments by the Trump administration have put the whole position on thin ice. Considering Republicans are generally against net neutrality, who knows what the government’s position on such issues will be in 12 months’ time.