Essential Facts About AT&T's Latest Streaming Service

AT&T TV makes its debut, featuring a premium channel selection and a streaming device powered by Google Assistant, requiring a two-year commitment. Today marks the nationwide launch of AT&T TV, the latest addition to AT&T's live TV streaming services. You might be wondering, "Doesn't AT&T already provide multiple live TV streaming services?" The answer is affirmative, and we'll explore that shortly. Nevertheless, this service stands out as a distinctive offering in the streaming landscape. Here's a detailed guide:

1. AT&T TV is compatible with any internet service provider

Bridging the gap between live TV streaming and traditional cable or satellite services, AT&T TV offers flexibility to bundle with AT&T internet where available. Unlike typical cable providers, there's no requirement to combine internet and TV services. Operating through your internet connection, AT&T TV liberates you from cable boxes or satellite dishes, enabling usage anywhere with a minimum download speed of 8 Mbps.

2. Free device included; compatible with most devices

Although no special equipment is necessary for AT&T TV, they provide a complimentary streaming device, simplifying the setup process. Ideal for streaming novices, the device plugs into your TV's HDMI port, granting instant access to over 5,000 apps, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and HBO NOW. AT&T TV's device serves as your all-in-one entertainment hub, allowing seamless streaming of all your favorite content.

3. A two-year commitment is required

Adopting a more conventional approach, AT&T TV mandates a two-year contract, distinguishing it from other streaming services offering monthly subscriptions. Additionally, pricing increases in the second year, and exiting the contract prematurely incurs an early termination fee of $15 for each remaining month. However, customers have a 14-day trial period to evaluate AT&T TV before committing to the contract. If dissatisfied within the initial two weeks, disconnection is allowed without additional charges.

4. AT&T TV boasts the industry's premier channel selection

Despite being a newcomer in the live TV streaming arena, AT&T TV has set a new standard by offering a superior channel lineup from its launch day. Their entry-level plan, Entertainment, provides access to over 70 channels. While this count is slightly lower than rivals such as YouTube TV (90+ channels) and fuboTV (95+), it's important to note that these numbers often include less desirable channels.

To assess the channels that viewers truly value, we referred to a recent survey of over 3,300 participants, ranking channels based on higher inclusion rates. Here's how AT&T TV stacks up against the competition. AT&T TV stands out significantly, offering all of the 'big four' local networks—ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC—along with an extensive array of major cable channels. In summary, the channels it doesn't carry are limited to PBS (exclusive to YouTube TV), NFL Network, ION, Music Choice, WGN America (unavailable on any streaming service), and HSN (also absent from streaming platforms). For those seeking a streaming service mirroring the limitless choices of cable or satellite, AT&T TV emerges as the top choice.

5. Additional charges apply for sports enthusiasts

AT&T TV offers an extensive selection for a live TV streaming service, but accessing regional sports networks (RSNs) comes at an extra cost. These channels broadcast local MLB and NHL games and are exclusive to AT&T TV's Choice plan, priced at $65/month in the first year and $110/month in the second year.

6. You will receive 500 hours for your DVR recordings.

Impressively, AT&T TV offers 500 hours of cloud DVR storage across all its plans, rivaled only by YouTube TV and Philo, which provide unlimited storage. Recordings are stored for up to 90 days, and you can record multiple programs simultaneously.

7. AT&T TV's remote is integrated with Google Assistant

A standout feature of AT&T TV is its remote, utilizing Google Assistant for voice search. This provides a significant advantage, as Google Assistant consistently outperforms other voice assistants according to an annual study by Perficient Digital. With this functionality, you can effortlessly search for shows or movies using your voice, eliminating the need for manual input. Additionally, you can connect it to your Google account, enabling control over smart home devices, asking questions, and managing your calendar and to-do lists.

8. AT&T TV is different than AT&T TV NOW or AT&T Watch TV

AT&T already offers multiple streaming services, with the upcoming launch of HBO Max in May. With the nationwide introduction of AT&T TV, the company will have three live TV streaming services, although there might be changes for AT&T WatchTV in the future. For an in-depth overview of AT&T TV, check out our comprehensive service review. Stay updated on the latest developments by following our experts on Facebook and Twitter, and keep an eye on our Resource Center.