DirecTV Satellite Plans to Include Access to HBO Max and Peacock

DirecTV is making some exciting updates to its satellite television plans by including access to network-owned streaming apps. This change is part of a larger effort that began last year, as DirecTV renegotiates distribution agreements with entertainment companies to offer streaming access alongside traditional linear broadcast and cable channels.

Earlier this year, DirecTV introduced new genre-based packages on its streaming platform, allowing customers to purchase bundles of entertainment, news, and sports channels beyond the typical cable TV lineup. Starting at just $20 per month, these packages include access to popular apps like Disney Plus, Hulu, HBO Max, Vix Premium, and ESPN Plus, depending on the channels available in the plan.

In the coming months, DirecTV plans to integrate network-owned streaming apps into select packages, including HBO Max, Peacock, and the upcoming ESPN Unlimited plan. These apps will be available in entertainment and sports genre-based packages, as well as legacy “Signature” packages that resemble traditional cable TV plans. Additionally, DirecTV is working on bringing other apps like Disney Plus and Hulu to its satellite customers.

If you’re a DirecTV subscriber with a Gemini set-top box or Gemini Air dongle for live TV streaming, you’ll soon enjoy access to the ad-supported tiers of Disney Plus and Hulu as part of your streaming Signature plan. These plans already include ESPN, and the addition of ESPN Unlimited will grant access to live events through ESPN Plus.

Even better, ESPN Unlimited is set to launch for $30 per month through the ESPN app in time for the start of the NFL season in September. This plan includes access to ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN U, ESPNews, and various college sports channels like ACC Network and SEC Network, as well as ESPN Plus.

For DirecTV subscribers with the core ESPN channel, ESPN Unlimited will provide access to all content from niche channels like ESPNews and ESPN U once the plan becomes available. Stay tuned for more updates as DirecTV continues to enhance its offerings for streaming entertainment fans.