(UPDATE) – The DirecTV Now apps for iOS and Apple TV are now available in the iOS and tvOS App Stores, respectively. [Get the iOS version here]
AT&T’s DirecTV Now streaming television service launched today, and the new service is looking to hit the ground running, with an aggressive offer of a free 32GB fourth-generation Apple TV to new customers who pay for three months of service upfront.
DirecTV Now plans start as low as $35 per month, which means you could get three-months of service and a new Apple TV for as little as $105 (plus tax). Considering the Apple TV’s price usually starts at around $150, that’s a good deal, especially if you’re pi$$ed at your cable company, like I am. (I signed up for the service this morning, and while only taking a quick look at the service before beginning work this morning, the service looks promising.)
In addition to the free Apple TV offer, the streaming service is also offering a free Amazon Fire TV stick to those wishing to only commit for a month up front. The Amazon Fire TV Stick usually retails for $40, so you still come out ahead by five bucks, even if you only decide to try the service for a month. The service is also offering a free 7-day trial option.
Pricing is as follows:
- Live a Little – $35 / month (60+ channels)
- Just Right – $50 / month (80+ channels)
- Go Big – $60 / month (100+ channels) (Available for $35 per month for a limited time)
- Gotta Have it – $70 / month (120+ channels)
- HBO and Cinemax are available for $5 per channel
While the packages start at $35 for the 60+ channels plan, the company is making the “Go Big” 100+ channel package available for just $35 per month for a limited time. Customers who sign up for the Go Big service while the special offer is available will pay $35 per month for the normally $60 per month package for as long as they keep their subscription.
While the jury is out on the new DirecTV Now service, if the service does prove to be viable, it represents a truly attractive option for those looking to cut the cord with their cable providers. If my wife and I like DirecTV Now, I guarantee that it is bye-bye Charter Cable, and hello lower monthly bill!
I’ll be trying out the DirecTV Now Apple TV and iOS apps when they become available, and will report back. For more information, or to sign up for the DirecTV Now television streaming service, visit the DirecTV Now website.
