What are /r/DirecTVNow's favorite Products & Services?

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Long time Apple guy here so nothing less than ATV4 and I just got the free one from my 3 month prepay I'm going to wrap it and gift it to my wife so she can put it in the Loft and stay upstairs more 💪🏾, might take sling TV's new $89 dollar offer just so I can put another Apple TV in my office 🤑😂 if anyone is interested: https://www.sling.com/devices/appletv

Don't have the instructions handy but I was affected by this as well on Roku Ultra. Google how to access Secret Menu 1. In that menu is an option to force firmware/software update. It'll actually downgrade you back to firmware v8 which fixes the DVR and delayed audio start issues.

Edit: Here you go. Use Secret Menu 1 and use the "Update Software" option. It'll actually do the opposite and bring you back down to firmware version 8 which will fix the issue for now. https://lifehacker.com/all-the-roku-secret-commands-and-menus-in-one-graphic-1779010902

There isn’t an option in setting to disable updates.

You can check the secret menus too, but I haven’t seen a way to disable Roku updates.

https://lifehacker.com/all-the-roku-secret-commands-and-menus-in-one-graphic-1779010902

I was with vue back when it was locked down as well... here is the current info about 'mobility':

https://www.playstation.com/en-us/network/vue/faq/features/#away-from-home

>While you’re traveling, you’ll be able to watch the available local programming for that location. You will not be able to DVR the local programming in the place you are visiting. Your DVR will still record your home local channels, and you’ll be able to watch that DVR programming while you are traveling.

>While you’re traveling, you’ll be able to watch your local regional sports networks. However, if you’ve never signed into PlayStation™Vue from your home area, you won’t be able to watch your local regional sports networks until you sign into PlayStation™Vue from the zip code you used when you subscribed.

>NHL games are not available to watch when you are away from home.

>If you subscribe to PlayStation™Vue away from home, you must return to your home area within the first 30 days of your subscription.

>After you’ve signed into PlayStation™Vue from your home area once within the first 30 days of your subscription, you can watch PlayStation™Vue from any location for 60 consecutive days before you must check in again from your home area.

>If you are outside your home area for longer than the timeframes mentioned above, you may receive certain error messages regarding unavailability of PlayStation™Vue or interruption of service. These can usually be resolved by signing into PlayStation™Vue from your home zip code.

My backup $6.7/month Sling International Sports backup package comes in handy in these situations. It's just that their stream quality isn't even close to DTVN.

fuboTV carries BeIN and BeIN Espanol, plus BeIN 2 to 10. That's 11 BeIN channels altogether.

Their most expensive plan is $35, but they're running a promo for $21 https://stacksocial.com/sales/fubotv-premier-3-month-subscription

It works really well with DTVN subscribers still on a $35 promo plan, as the combination of two services offers pretty much all of the sports, and still costs less than Vue's most expensive package.

right... it is coming from another source. keep in mind that while your isp might have great peering with one source, it might have overloaded peering with another.

https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/architecture/internet-routing-and-traffic-engineering/

You can download an older version of the app here https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/att-services-inc/directv-now/directv-now-2-0-12-01538-release/directv-now℠-2-0-12-01538-android-apk-download/

Like the other poster said the latest version of the app has a bug where the interface never hides. If you install the last version it should work just fine. That's what I ended up needing to do.

https://www.apkmirror.com/apk/att-services-inc/directv-now℠-android-tv/

Go here, download the apk for that app, put it on the Shield (using a USB drive or some other way) and install it. Done! It works great, sometimes stutters but usually smooths itself out.

What *kills* me is the grammar. Run-on sentences and poor use of commas are more frequent than the baseless speculation. I wish the guy would at least run his posts through something like the Hemingway Editor before hitting publish.

They did... you can even go to amazon right now, and search for AMC app for fire tv, and " buy it" (for free), but then it will tell you that you have no compatible devices.

https://www.amazon.com/AMC/dp/B01HDXOBYW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1488402072&sr=8-1&keywords=amc+fire+tv+app

Same thing happened with starz... I had that and the encore app... then got a new fire stick for my dad and tried to download it... and suddenly it wasn't available anywhere. (Though I think the old app stayed on my original device... I think). And then last month, there was an all new app for starz that combined starz and encore.

Here is a list of compatible roku devices:

https://help.directvnow.com/hc/en-us/articles/115000637383-How-do-I-set-up-DIRECTV-NOW-with-a-Roku-device-

not the newest (they just released new versions) but if you are wanting to stay in the roku ecosystem saw the premiere + for $59.99 at amazon today

https://www.amazon.com/Roku-Streaming-Quad-Core-Processor-Refurbished/dp/B06XS33WDQ

I got this remote from Amazon (which is already programmed for Apple TV, Xbox and Roku) for $26: https://www.amazon.com/Inteset-INT-422-Universal-Backlit-Learning/dp/B00M4I1BAY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1515731467&sr=8-1&keywords=inteset+remote

Works really well for me. I kept the Apple TV buttons as is, and reprogrammed the other buttons (B, C & D) to control my TV and sound bar. A great deal for $26! No software required, just follow the instructions and punch in the codes for your other media devices.

As a note, if you hate the remote go to Walmart or wherever and buy a compatible universal remote for a more traditional experience. The one I have costs about 10 and works good enough. Oh and you can buy an Apple remote case on amazon and it makes it 100x easier to hold since it increases thickness, grip and reduces accidental touches. I bought this one and like it.

https://www.amazon.com/elago-Nightglow-Absorption-Technology-Included/dp/B06X9MYQP7/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1518625475&sr=8-8&keywords=apple+tv+remote+case

Unlocator is a DNS service. With Apple TV it's very easy to use, just change the IP address manually on the Apple TV. They give you the address to put in. They have step by step instructions. Works for NHL and MLB so I never get blackouts.

Very easy. Get something like unlocator which changes your location, follow instructions, very easy on Apple TV, then subscribe to NHL Game Center and you can watch all the Rangers games you want. Works for MLB also. Unlocator costs $50 a year and NHL is now $140 for season or $24.99 a month. I watch islanders games without cable and live in NYC. Also watched the end of tonight's Rangers game. FYI unlocator has free 7 day trial

Hi - just wanted to update on a few DNS services I've been trialling with DTVN: - Current subscription with Unlocator: Not working with DTVN - they have said via email since DTVN launch that they're 'working on it'. - Gave dns-trick a go with their trial: Worked on some devices only, and didn't work with some other TV services I use. - Am now trialling SmartDNSProxy: Most effective so far, working on all my devices (ATV, FTV Stick, iMac, Macbook Pro, iPad, Huawei Android phone) and works with all the other TV services I use. Also found it very fast to connect as they have local DNS addresses in many countries to connect to - so you choose your closest. Will see how the rest of the 2 week trial goes.

Hope that's of use. (I'm not connected to/paid by any service - just trying to find the best service at a good price).

Wow... I think I know what streaming device I’m gonna buy... But to be clear, the FTV you have is this one, right?

I purchased the https://slickdeals.net/f/12058575-logitech-harmony-ultimate-home-remote-hub-black-100-free-shipping?src=SiteSearchV2_SearchBarV2Algo1 last week for this purpose.

DIRECTVNOW

https://help.directvnow.com/hc/en-us/articles/215395423-Use-your-DIRECTV-NOW-account-to-access-network-sites-and-mobile-apps

PS VUE

https://www.playstation.com/en-us/network/vue/faq/ Use the search bar there and look for "TV Everywhere"

PS Vue is tied to one location.

https://www.playstation.com/en-us/network/vue/faq/

look at "Service Availability and Location Errors"

that said, most of the network apps have a "live tv" option, but it is a bit of a pain to have to launch an app for each channel :)

I know people seem to prefer the AppleTV. However, I absolutely despise being locked into the Apple ecosystem. I have the Roku Streaming Stick+ (https://www.roku.com/products/streaming-stick-plus). It honestly works great.

I will say though, once the DirecTV streaming device comes out of beta, it will be the best DirecTV Now experience, as channel changes are extremely fast, and allows channel # surfing as the remote has a 10-key pad. However right now, they don't have Netflix or Amazon Prime Video apps allowed yet, but it will come as it is basically an Android device.

A Roku Ultra, sixth gen (4660). This is the latest flagship Roku; it was released in October 2017, six months ago. Direct 1Gbps Ethernet connection, as we do peak around 130Mbps in the middle of the day.

How does DVTN buffer on a Roku Ultra 4660 @ Ethernet 130Mbps?

The service.

Now while I've heard it's better on Apple TV 4K. But DTVN should have zero issues on a Roku Ultra, which thrives on 4K from Netflix and Amazon. This is just 1080p, smh.

Yeah it’s gone on Gotta Have It as well but in the meantime it looks like Sling is offering a promo for $15 on the lowest package with NFL Network so I’ll give that a shot. Here’s the link for anyone else to try it out....

https://www.sling.com/

https://i.imgur.com/8o6pCFZ.jpg

You can also get their AirTV + HD antenna USB adapter + RCA OTA antenna bundle for free (normally $100+) if you prepay 3 months on any package via this link for that: https://www.sling.com/deals. (Note that you cannot combine the two promos so you have to decide which is more valuable to you -- the AirTV bundle or the 3 months for $25 offer)

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AirTV is a Google TV box that let's watch local OTA channels in-line with your other SlingTV channels (and also gives you access to the Google Play store, Chromecast feature, etc.). You can also connect an external hard drive to the AirTV and record local OTA stations with that as well.

You need to have the following 1. Sign up channels dvr $8/month or $80/yr subscription from https://getchannels.com 2. Download dvr server on windows/shield and other devices 3. Get client apps on all platforms

Recordings will remain as long as you want. You can skip commercials with 1 click. Quality is ok and it’s improving every day

I have always used universals (harmony brand in fact) remotes with all of my streamers (including fire tv) but... I have seen these on amazon for some time now... might be what you are after...

https://www.amazon.com/Sideclick-Remotes-SC2-FT16K-Universal-Attachment/dp/B01MRFY61G

https://www.amazon.com/MYRIANN-Universal-Remote-Attachment-Streaming/dp/B07F2Z6F4L

Personally I would just take that money and put it towards a harmony but thought I would pass it on if you didn't know about it.

I use the hub with all my streamers, for the remotes I use a mix of the 'companion' remotes that came with the hub, harmony touches and smartphones.

I really do hate the layout on the harmony touch... just hate it... I got em cheap in a hub pack at costco or sams... and one on clearance so I put up with it.... But if you are going for a good remote get the "Harmony Elite"... I keep looking for one on sale. The "elite" has a more classic/normal harmony remote layout and not that stupid stupid stupid "Harmony Touch" layout.

I was buying for a friend and noticed in walmart they had the the old packages on sale (they have the harmony hub and the simplified 'companion' remote) for like $60 but then noticed online they are going for $53 on walmart and amazon.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Logitech-Harmony-Smart-Remote-Control/34969761

https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Control-Smartphone-Simple/dp/B00BQ5RYI4

That said, pretty much any universal (even the older harmony 650 IR only remotes) will work with the apple tv... in fact your TVs remote likely will control it... just make sure you have HDMI CEC control enabled on the hdmi port the apple tv is connected to.

You will need to keep the siri remote charged and handy to force close apps... there is no real way to get to the app browser with universal/hubs yet.

I get it, but there are several "sideload for firetv" apps in the google play store. They're free and you can use them to sideload and app from your phone to your beta box, as long as you have the developer options set up on the beta box. Then you don't have to get into all the ADB stuff.

I did this recently and it works pretty easily. The only issue is that if you try to load an app that isn't designed for AndroidTV it won't show up in the beta box app list. Prime Video and Hulu both have AndroidTV apps so they will show up. It's better than potentially downloading a apk from some non-good source. Example: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=mobi.koni.appstofiretv&hl=en

Did you try it? I have too much OCD to go login to my router, turn of the Unlocator DNS, turn off the port blockers, and then sign up for this and try it out.

A service called playmoTV is claiming support for DTVN as well. They offer a no cc 7 week trial.

This is what it says on my Amazon order back in Feb-2018.

"All-new Fire TV with 4K Ultra HD and Alexa Voice Remote (2017 Edition, Pendant) | Streaming Media Player"

and this was the link https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N32NCPM/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I know it is 4k cause I have watch 4k content. Maybe Amazon made a mistake with it?

All I know is this 4k is pretty laggy with the software compared to my Roku.

that's about what I paid for my touch hub combo... that stupid harmony touch remote...

my advise for you living with the harmony touch remote: make sure you have it lock the screen quickly or you will randomly be setting off commands when trying to reach to pause.

Keep an eye out they usually lower prices when a new model is coming out... and while very simple they do have the standard harmony layout (and include a numeric keypad):

https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Smart-Remote-Ultimate/dp/B00LTKGFDQ

and you can always use a smart phone running the harmony app as well.

if it's no good keep an eye out for this device to go on sale:

https://www.amazon.com/all-new-amazon-fire-tv-4k-uhd-streaming-media-player/dp/B01N32NCPM

they put it on sale for 49 quite often

right now it's the best dtvn experience overall... but... the dtvn client bugs do move around, so while right now it's the best, there is always a chance they will push out an update that breaks it ;)

This $30 router is great. I have it, it has by device bandwidth control, and it has no trouble at all streaming 3 continuous high-definition streams to my TV's in my house. TP-Link N450 Wireless Wi-Fi Router, Up to 450Mbps (TL-WR940N) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003Y5RYNY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_-MJpBbKVPP25X

supposedly there is some issue they are having with version control.

I am not sure this will work, but you might try adding it via the website?

https://www.amazon.com/AT-T-Services-Inc-DIRECTV/dp/B01J62Q632

That should be the app, if you sign in with the amazon account that your fire tv is signed in with it should offer a "Deliver to" drop down that will let you select the fire tv... if it is missing there as well I guess dtvn still hasn't fixed the version control issue.

If you have the time, try chat support if the above doesn't work.

They supposedly only dropped 1st gen sticks (and boxes it seems).

What device are you using to watch DTVN? and couldnt you just hook up ethernet to it from the dsl modem?, If you are using a roku or fire tv, look for an ethernet adapter, this is what I use for my current gen(2017) fire tv's but can be used on select other devices: https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Ethernet-Adapter-Chromecast-Raspbery/dp/B01N1X28F1

It's the Fire tv pendant (2017 edition, pendant).

I have one and have been using it for several weeks now, it performs as well as the box (2015) so far. Notice you will need to get the $15 ethernet adapter if you don't want it on wifi.

https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Ethernet-Adapter-Fire-Devices/dp/B074TC662N

I hate the new Apple TV 4G/4K remote as well. However, I have several of the older 2G/3G silver remotes and those work just fine with the 4G/4K. I added the Sideclick remote from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Sideclick-Remotes-SC2-APG3K-Universal-Attachment/dp/B01DMN5QPK

Same here. Just barely touching the remote made the channel switch. I got so pissed that I bought a Roku premiere+, but now the channel switching seems much slower than the ATV4. Just less responsive. Next up: ATV4 back up with this remote.

Honestly, pretty much any remote will work with the Apple TV’s learning function. But, I personally use a Harmony Smart Control
Which is actually on sale on amazon right now for $70.

I have to use this product to adapt a coax cord to work with my tv, it doesn't have a normal input due to some BS need to be "thin"

https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-BN39-01154P-Cbf-Signal-Rf-Ntsc/dp/B00AKD6QZ0

Looks like the 2nd Gen Fire TV Stick does support up to 60fps: tech specs from Amazon.