The top free streaming services are about to get new competition, as DirecTV announces plans to launch its own free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service on November 15.
The satellite TV provider, known for its live TV service DirecTV Stream (formerly known as DirecTV Now), offers access to more than 150 network, local and sports channels. Not all of these will be available through the new service; instead, DirecTV has said it will give viewers access to “curated FAST Channel content.”
In addition, MyFree DirecTV will launch with an “extensive” on-demand library of movies and shows to choose from, although the exact size of the catalog is not yet known. DirecTV has said it plans to roll out additional content in 2025 and beyond.
You can access the new free streaming service DirecTV in the US on your mobile and select smart TVs and streaming devices. If you’re already signed up for one of the best DirecTV packages or deals, you can get your personalized “Your TV.” ‘ carousel will also be available on the new free service.
A better TV future
Amy Leifer, director of advertising for DirecTV, said a statement that the aim of the new service was to “provide consumers with high-quality content with more choice and more control at the right value”. With FAST services reportedly already generating nearly $8 billion in the US this year, there is clearly a lot of demand among subscription-weary people.
But the space is becoming increasingly crowded, from Comcast’s and Charter’s Xumo to Amazon’s FreeVee and Paramount’s Pluto TV — and even Netflix could be planning a completely free ad-supported service. But what makes the introduction of MyFree DirecTV interesting is its connection to Dish Network.
Dish Network used to be a major competitor to DirecTV, but in September 2024 it acquired the company’s video distribution business, which coincidentally included an older streaming service that launched in 2015: Sling TV. It also owns Sling Freestream, which reportedly has a catalog of more than 40,000 titles.
While we don’t know what MyFree DirecTV’s library will officially look like, it’s fair to speculate that these sister services could strengthen the catalog. DirecTV’s existing channel lineup also includes – according to Variety – Lionsgate’s MovieSphere FAST channel, which shows films such as 3:10 to Yuma, Ender’s Game And Windriver, so this new free streaming service could have a wealth of content.