AT_T_Fireworks - H 2015
AP ImagesTelecom giant AT&T will on Aug. 10 launch what it says are its first-ever nationwide packages of TV and wireless services following the recent completion of its acquisition of satellite TV powerhouse DirecTV.
In the past, satellite TV and telecom companies have partnered on offering bundles, but now AT&T has brought DirecTV under its corporate umbrella to offer bundles from the same provider.
The offer includes HD and DVR service for up to four TV receivers, DirecTV or AT&T’s U-verse where it is available, unlimited talking and texting for four wireless lines and 10GB of wireless data for $200 per month for basic video services for new DirecTV or U-Verse customers. The company said that this amounts to annual savings of $600 or more in the first 12 months.
There are various options and requirements for the length of contracts.
As part of the bundles’ launch, new DirecTV subscribers will also have immediate access to programming on their mobile devices via what the company calls a “walk out and watch TV” experience. Consumers can choose from a variety of DirecTV video packages available nationwide or several AT&T U-verse packages available in 21 states.
“Today is the first of many planned moves to enable our customers to enjoy a premium entertainment experience almost anywhere,” said Brad Bentley, executive vp and chief marketing officer of AT&T Entertainment and Internet Services, in a statement late Sunday. “We’re going to deliver more TV and entertainment choices to more screens – when and where our customers want it. And we’ll offer incredible value with more flexibility and convenience through our integrated packages that deliver a great experience.”
AT&T said it is now selling DirecTV services in more than 2,000 AT&T retail stores nationwide. The acquisition made it the largest pay TV provider in the U.S. and the world, with more than 55 million subscribers in the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean.
Twitter: @georgszalai
