4K
4K refers to Ultra High Definition (UHD) video display resolution with approximately 4,000 horizontal pixels - specifically 3840 x 2160 pixels. This is 4 times sharper than standard HD (1080p), and results in sharper, more detailed images.
Broadcast TV
Broadcast TV refers to television programming that is transmitted over public airwaves using radio frequencies, allowing anyone with an antenna to receive the signals for free. DIRECTV retransmits local broadcast TV stations (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS, etc.) to satellite subscribers as part of our channel packages.
Channel
A channel is a specific programming stream that broadcasts content (TV shows, movies, news, sports) and is assigned a unique number in DIRECTV's Channel Guide.
Channel Lineup
A DIRECTV channel lineup, or channel list, is the complete list of TV channels carried by DIRECTV, and their associated channel numbers. Lineups may also indicate which channels are included in which packages.
Cloud DVR
DIRECTV Cloud DVR is a cloud-based recording service that allows you to easily record your favorite movies and shows and watch anytime, from anywhere on DIRECTV's remote servers.
DIRECTV App
The DIRECTV App refers to the authenticated digital application that allows eligible DIRECTV customers to access and manage their subscribed programming and account features on compatible internet-connected devices. It allows subscribers to stream their live TV channels, on-demand content, and DVR recordings on smart TVs, smartphones, tablets and computers using their home internet connection. You can watch most of your DIRECTV programming anywhere in the US with an internet connection.
ENTERTAINMENT Package
The DIRECTV Entertainment Package is the most affordable Signature TV plan offered by DIRECTV. It features a selection of 90+ channels, including popular news, entertainment and sports networks, without the higher cost of premium or niche channels.
Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST)
FAST channels are Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television channels that provide free content with commercials, similar to traditional broadcast TV but delivered via internet streaming. These channels offer a variety of programming like news, movies and specialty content without requiring a paid subscription, though they include regular advertising breaks. Many FAST channels are available to DIRECTV customers, including through MyFree DIRECTV.
Gemini Air
The Gemini Air is a compact plug-and-play streaming device that delivers live TV, on-demand content and thousands of streaming apps - like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN Unlimited, Prime Video and more - all through a compact HDMI device that plugs directly into your TV and operates entirely over your internet with no satellite dish required. Third-party apps require separate subscriptions and logins to access content. Also, Google Account is required to access Google Play Store.
Genre Pack™
DIRECTV Genre Packs are specialized streaming TV plans that focus on genres with specific types of programming like sports, movies, international content or family entertainment. These packs allow you to customize your experience by selecting the type of content you're most interested in rather than upgrading to a larger, more expensive package. No annual contract required.
Local Channel
DIRECTV Local Channels are your area's broadcast television stations (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS, etc.) that provide local news, weather and community programming specific to your geographic region. These channels are network affiliates that combine national network programming with local content, and DIRECTV delivers them as part of your channel package, where available.
Mini-Pack Add-On
A DIRECTV Mini Pack Add-On is a specialty channel lineup designed to work alongside base Genre Packs™, providing customers extra content in a focused area to further tailor their viewing experience without forcing customers to pay for large numbers of unrelated channels.
Movies Extra Pack
DIRECTV's Movies Extra Pack is an add-on service available to Signature Package subscribers that provides additional movie channels beyond what's already included in their base programming. This add on typically includes premium movie networks and specialty film channels that offer a wider variety of movies, including recent releases, classics and genre-specific content. Some of the channels included are Sony Movies, Hallmark Family, Hallmark Mystery, Smithsonian Channel, Crime+ Investigation and ShortsTV to name a few.
MyCinema™
MyCinema is a Mini Pack add-on that adds premium movie channels and on-demand movie content to complement your base Genre Pack. It offers a wide variety of films including new releases, classics and specialty movie programming. The MyCinema Mini pack can be added to the MyKids, MyEntertainment, MyNews or the MySports base Genre Packs.
MyFree DIRECTV
MyFree DIRECTV is a free ad-supported streaming (FAST) service offered by DIRECTV that provides access to over 130+ live channels, including movies, TV shows and more, without requiring a paid DIRECTV subscription. It's available through the DIRECTV app and supported streaming devices.
MyKids™
MyKids is a base Genre Pack for the family, featuring programming channels with educational content, cartoons and age-appropriate entertainment. It provides parents with safe viewing options and educational programming for kids of various ages.
MySports™ (with ESPN Unlimited)
MySports is a base Genre Pack that includes additional sports channels plus access to ESPN Unlimited streaming service. It provides extensive sports coverage, including live games, analysis and ESPN's streaming content.
Network
In television, a network is a centralized organization that creates and distributes programming (like news, shows, sports) to many affiliated local TV stations across a country, allowing a single broadcast to reach a massive, nationwide audience through airwaves, satellite, internet or cable. DIRECTV has over 300 networks which provides content to their customers.
ÓPTIMO MÁS™ Package
ÓPTIMO MÁS is one of the SignatureTV plans offered by DIRECTV, which combines English-language channels with a comprehensive selection of Latino and Hispanic channels, including news, entertainment, sports and movies in Spanish. This package features 110+ channels and is designed for bilingual households that want both mainstream American programming and culturally relevant Spanish-language content in one bundle.
Package
A DIRECTV Package or TV Plan, is your traditional main service tier that determines your base channel lineup, monthly price and core features - it's the foundation of your DIRECTV service that you choose when subscribing. See also TV plans.
TV Plans
TV Plan or TV Package is the umbrella term that refers to the overall video subscription structure chosen by a customer. Whether it's a full-channel package streaming or satellite , a plan defines the level of service, delivery method and cost tier.
Premium Networks
DIRECTV Premium Networks are high-end add-on channels like HBO Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax that offer commercial-free movies, original series and exclusive content for an additional monthly fee beyond your base package, if they aren't already included in your package. These networks typically feature blockbuster movies, award-winning original programming and premium content that isn't available on regular cable channels.
Purchase
A DIRECTV "purchase" allows you to buy digital content through your Gemini or Genie device that you can watch repeatedly and keep in your digital library. Unlike rentals, select purchased movies don't expire and remain accessible via your MyFree DIRECTV account and compatible devices even if you change or cancel your service.
Refer A Friend
Refer A Friend is a DIRECTV customer incentive initiative program that rewards both current subscribers and their friends or family when a new customer signs up for qualifying DIRECTV service through a personal referral link.
Rental
A DIRECTV "rental" allows you to rent digital movies through your Gemini or Genie device for a temporary viewing period, typically 24-48 hours from when you start watching. Unlike purchases, rentals expire after the viewing window ends and are removed from your account, making them a cheaper option for one-time viewing.
Satellite TV
DIRECTV Satellite TV is a television service that delivers programming to your home by transmitting signals from satellites in space to a Satellite Dish installed at your location, which then connects to Receivers that decode the signals for viewing on your TVs.
SignalSaver™
DIRECTV SignalSaver is a feature that makes an alternate stream available to view your programming via internet if your Satellite Dish's signal reception is interrupted. Signal Save is currently available on 160+ most-watched channels (based on DIRECTV viewership). It requires HD DVR (model HR44 or later) connected to high-speed internet.
Sports Central™
Sports Central is a centralized sports hub on DIRECTV that lets users find and watch live and upcoming games across major sports in one place. It combines listings from DIRECTV channels and supported streaming apps, allowing users to personalize their experience and set recordings for favorite teams. Accessible through the main menu, Sports Central simplifies managing and enjoying sports content on DIRECTV.
Streaming Apps
A streaming app is a software application that allows users to access and play audio, video or other media content directly over the internet. These apps provide on-demand access to movies, TV shows, music, live broadcasts and more. (Separate subscriptions are required.)
Streams
"Streams" refers to the number of different video feeds you can watch simultaneously on multiple devices throughout your home, allowing family members to watch different content at the same time. DIRECTV satellite service allow 3-5 concurrent streams, meaning you could have someone watching live TV on the main receiver, another person streaming on a tablet and others watching recorded shows on different TVs all at once. DIRECTV Streaming service allows unlimited streams within the home for compatible devices connected to the same home network. Limit 3 concurrent out-of-home DIRECTV streams. Certain networks limit total number of simultaneous streams.
Term Contract
DIRECTV Term Contract is a legally binding agreement that commits you to keep DIRECTV service for a specific period (usually 12 or 24 months) in exchange for promotional pricing and equipment. Not all DIRECTV offerings (MyFree and Streaming services, for example) require a Term Contract.
ULTIMATE Package
The ULTIMATE Package is a high-tier Signature package offered by DIRECTV, with 160+ channels that include comprehensive entertainment, sports and movie content, positioned between the CHOICE and PREMIER packages. It offers extensive channel variety and enhanced premium content for heavy TV watchers who want substantial programming without paying for all the premium networks included in PREMIER.
U-Verse
U-verse TV is a fiber-optic or DSL-based television service that delivers TV programming through internet protocol (IPTV) rather than satellite.
Add-on(s)
Add-on refers to several premium channels, streaming apps, and sports packages that you can add to your base package for additional monthly fees. These include Netflix, Apple TV+, HBO Max, Showtime, Movies Extra Pack, Starz®, Cinemax, MLB EXTRA INNINGS®, NBA League Pass®, NHL® CENTER ICE®, FOX Soccer Plus, Sports Pack, Movies Extra Pack, DOGTV, AMC+, FOX Nation, discovery+ and many more.
Channel Guide
The DIRECTV Channel Guide is a menu system that shows all available channels, current programs and upcoming shows in your area, in an organized, easy-to-navigate format.
CHOICE™ Package
The DIRECTV CHOICE Package is one of the Signature packages offered by DIRECTV, including: 125+ channels, local channels (where available), popular networks like ESPN, CNN, Discovery, HGTV, etc. and regional sports networks.
Device
A device is any piece of equipment - from satellite receivers to compatible smartphones - that you may use to access and watch DIRECTV programming such as Gemini, Gemini Air, Genie etc.
DVR
DIRECTV DVR is the personal TV recording system for DIRECTV streaming and satellite customers. Either with a hard-drive-equipped set-top unit in the home, or a Cloud DVR which is used by streaming customers. Both types of DVRs allow you to record multiple shows, watch them anytime and control live TV with pause/rewind functions.
Equipment
DIRECTV equipment refers to hardware leased from DIRECTV under your agreement. This may include Gemini, Gemini Air, Genie device, remote controls, satellite dishes and various cables and connectors that link everything together to deliver TV programming throughout your home.
Gemini™
DIRECTV Gemini device is a streaming media player that integrates live TV, on-demand content and thousands of third-party streaming apps - including Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video and more – into a single user interface for both satellite and streaming customers. Third-party apps require separate subscriptions and logins to access content. Also, Google Account is required to access Google Play Store.
Genie™
The DIRECTV Genie is the main satellite DVR receiver that can record up to five shows simultaneously while you watch a different channel, and it serves as the central hub for whole-home DVR service. It connects to your satellite dish and can distribute recorded and live TV content to additional TVs throughout your home via smaller Genie Mini receivers.
Live TV
DIRECTV Live TV is real-time television programming broadcast as it happens, allowing you to watch shows, news and sports at the same time they're being aired, as opposed to on-demand or recorded content
MiEspañol™
MiEspañol™ is a base Genre Pack with a dedicated lineup of Spanish-language channels such as CNN en Español, Discovery en Español and Fox Deportes. It features Spanish-language shows, movies and sports, and ViX Premium with Ads is included on us.
Movies Anywhere
The Movies Anywhere service allows customers to permanently keep digital copies of eligible movies they purchase, even if they cancel their DIRECTV service or switch to another provider. This service ensures that your purchased movie library remains accessible across multiple devices and platforms regardless of your TV service provider.
Multiview Mix Channels
DIRECTV Multiview Mix Channels provide you with the ability to watch multiple channels on the same screen simultaneously. Channels are offered in categories such as sports, business, news and kids. (Only includes channels in your DIRECTV package. Feature only available on your television; not available on other devices.)
MyEntertainment™
MyEntertainment is a base Genre Pack that provides 60+ popular entertainment and lifestyle channels. The pack also includes streaming access to Disney+, Hulu Bundle Basic & Max Basic With Ads.
MyHome Team™
MyHome Team is a Mini Pack add-on for sports fans who want to follow their home team with local and regional game coverage. MyHome Team can be added to the MySports Genre Pack for complete national and local sports coverage. (Local team coverage varies by market and may be unavailable in your area. Check channel lineup. Blackout restrictions may apply.)
MyNews™
MyNews is a base Genre Pack that provides a selection of news channels, including NBC, FOX, MSNBC, CNN and more.
MySports Extra™
MySports Extra is a Mini Pack add-on that includes even more sports channels and specialty sports programming beyond the standard sports offerings. It's designed for sports enthusiasts who want maximum coverage of various sports and leagues. MySports Extra can be added to the MySports Genre Pack.
On Demand
DIRECTV On Demand is a Video on Demand (VOD) service that allows you to watch select movies, TV shows and other content whenever you want, rather than waiting for scheduled broadcast times.
Pack
Packs - officially known as Genre Packs - are smaller, curated channel lineups focused on specific interests like sports, entertainment, news, kids and Spanish-language content. See also TV plans.
Pay Per View (PPV)
DIRECTV Pay Per View (PPV) allows you to rent individual movies, live events, or special programming for a one-time fee without needing a subscription to those specific channels or services.
PREMIER Package
The PREMIER Package is the highest-tier Signature package offered by DIRECTV, with 185+ channels that feature almost everything DIRECTV has to offer, including all premium networks (HBO Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, Cinemax) built into the monthly price. It's the most comprehensive and expensive package, designed for customers who want maximum content variety and all premium channels without separate add-on fees.
Protection plan
A DIRECTV PROTECTION PLAN is an optional service plan for satellite customers that covers repair or replacement of your DIRECTV equipment (receivers, remotes, cables) if they malfunction or break due to normal wear and tear. This service typically provides free service calls, equipment replacement and technical support for a monthly fee, protecting you from potentially expensive repair costs. DIRECTV TECH PROTECT offers two plans to DIRECTV via internet customers that cover many home technology devices
Receiver
A DIRECTV Receiver is the set-top box that connects to your TV (and satellite dish for satellite customers) to decode and display DIRECTV programming. Options range from basic HD receivers for live TV only, to the Gemini device for streaming and satellite customers that can record multiple shows simultaneously.
Regional Sports Network (RSN)
A DIRECTV Regional Sports Network (RSN) is a regional sports channel that broadcasts games and coverage specific to your geographic area, such as your local MLB, NBA or NHL teams. These networks, like Bally Sports or NBC Sports Regional, are included in CHOICE and higher packages but typically come with an additional Regional Sports Fee due to their high content licensing costs.
Satellite Dish
A DIRECTV Satellite Dish is the outdoor antenna that receives television signals from DIRECTV's satellites in space and transmits them to your receivers inside your home, enabling you to watch DIRECTV programming. This is not required for streaming services.
Set Top Box
A "set top box" is an outdated term for what is now called a receiver - originally named because these devices literally sat on top of old tube televisions, but the term persists even though modern flat-screen TVs typically have the receiver placed nearby rather than on top.
Signature Package
DIRECTV Signature Packages or Plan, are the comprehensive live TV packages offering the broadest access to live channels, including entertainment, sports, news and local channels, accessible on your TV or through the DIRECTV app. These packages offer a variety of channel lineups with varying prices and channel counts, from 120+ to over 220+ channels. You can choose the package or TV plan that best suits your needs and switch between them as needed.
Sports Pack™
DIRECTV Sports Pack is an add-on subscription that provides over 40 additional sports channels and networks, offering expanded live coverage of various pro and college sports, leagues and specialty programming for sports enthusiasts. Sports Pack can be added to any of the Signature TV package subscriptions and features popular sports channels such as the BIG Ten Network, MLB Network, MLB Strike Zone™, NBA TV, NFL Network, NFL Red Zone, Golf Channel and more. Not to be confused with the standalone MySports Genre Pack.
Streaming TV
Streaming TV with DIRECTV refers to watching programming through internet-connected devices like phones, tablets, computers, Smart TVs, via the DIRECTV App or via a DIRECTV Gemini device connected to your television, rather than through traditional satellite receivers.
Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD)
Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) is a subscription service that provides access to a library of movies and TV shows that you can stream instantly over the internet whenever you want to watch them. Unlike traditional scheduled programming or pay-per-view rentals, content is typically included with your subscription and available for unlimited viewing during your subscription period. (Separate subscriptions required.)
Transport
DIRECTV "transport" refers to the delivery method used to bring programming to your home - either through satellite transmission (traditional DIRECTV with a Satellite Dish) or using your internet connection to stream content. Satellite transport requires a dish installation and delivers signals from satellites in space, while internet transport uses your broadband connection to stream content directly to your compatible devices without needing a Satellite Dish.
Universal Search
Universal Search is a feature that allows you to search for movies, TV shows, actors and other content across all available sources from one search function. Instead of searching individual channels or apps separately, Universal Search finds content whether it's on live TV, on-demand, DVR recordings or select third-party streaming apps, making it easier to locate what you want to watch. (Requires internet-connected Gemini device and separate paid subscriptions for 3rd party apps.)
YourTV
"Your TV" is a new home screen feature for DIRECTV Gemini devices, providing a personalized view of your favorite entertainment and sports content. It combines recently watched channels, live sports scores and recommended content into a single, easy-to-navigate carousel. This feature aims to simplify content discovery and offer a more tailored viewing experience.
