Cable giant DirecTV joins the FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) trend
Directv and Dish Merge to Shape Future of Satellite TV
In a move that signals a significant shift in the satellite TV industry, Directv and Dish, two major players, have announced their intention to merge. The merger aims to help the combined company adapt to changing consumer preferences and compete more effectively with streaming services.
The merger will bring together the subscriber bases of both companies, resulting in a total of approximately 12.8 million subscribers. This union could help immunize the combined company against disruptions to its services, including frequent carriage disputes with major studios.
As part of the merger, Directv is planning to launch a free live TV service named 'MyFree Directv' on November 15. This service will initially offer high-quality FAST channels, according to a Directv spokesperson. MyFree Directv will be available on most mobile devices and select smart TVs, including Google TV.
MyFree Directv will feature ad-supported live TV channels and an on-demand library of series, shows, and movies. Possible companies providing live programming through MyFree Directv include Directv itself and its content partners or affiliated broadcasters, such as A&E, The Walt Disney Co., Fox, and others.
Viewers of MyFree Directv will have the option to upgrade to paid services within the platform. Directv also plans to add more channels to MyFree Directv in 2025.
The merger is part of a broader trend of consolidation in the entertainment industry, as companies seek to gain economies of scale and improve their competitive positions. Echostar, Directv's main competitor that operates the Dish satellite pay TV service, has already ventured into FAST channels through its Hopper 3 system and Sling Freestream service.
The rapid decline in Directv subscribers, with an estimated loss of 1.8 million subscribers in 2023, has been a significant factor in this merger. The merger is expected to be completed by the end of 2023, subject to regulatory approval. The merged company will continue to offer both free and paid services, giving viewers the flexibility to choose the service that best suits their needs.
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