Ahead of a launch event for new streaming service DirecTV Now in New York City next week, AT&T and Fox Networks Group announced on Monday afternoon they reached an agreement to extend the Fox portfolio of networks across DirecTV products including the soon-to-launch internet-delivered TV service.
Variety reports that CBS is the only notable programmer AT&T hasn’t announced a programming deal with for DirecTV Now, and CNET also says that the company has inked streaming deals with most major programmers. But in terms of the actual nitty-gritty on how AT&T will package its streaming channel offerings to consumers, that might have to wait for a full reveal at the event on Nov. 28. AT&T CEO Randall Stephenson announced a price tag of $35/month for the service at a Wall Street Journal conference in October, but details around what exactly that would get customers weren’t given.
Fox programming available to DirecTV Now customers will include Fox News Channel, Fox Business Network, FX, FXX, FXM, FS 1, FS 2, Big Ten Network, 18 Fox regional sports networks, National Geographic, and Nat Geo Wild. Interestingly, a Fox/AT&T statement noted the companies had “also agreed on a framework for Fox Broadcasting Company programming to be delivered to DirecTV Now customers nationwide,” but didn’t give further information about how that framework would apply to delivery of Fox’s broadcast networks.
“It’s a big win for our DirecTV Now customers, who will have easy and immediate access to a wide array of Fox programming, including popular national and sports content they can watch virtually anywhere, anytime,” AT&T Chief Content Officer Dan York says.
DirecTV Now reportedly will offer customers access to more than 100 channels, including live and on-demand programming, and “premium add-on options.” AT&T says customers will be able to access and stream the service “over a wired or wireless internet connection using a variety of connected devices without requiring additional hardware, satellites, annual contracts, or credit checks.”