AT&T (NYSE:T) is planning a unified streaming video platform, beginning with a limited beta test this summer among selected DirecTV NOW users. The new online platform is scheduled to go live for DirecTV NOW subs and companion app users this fall and to eventually support all AT&T consumer video services. The DirecTV rollout is expected to take place over the next year, with subscribers to other AT&T video services slated to get the new platform in the years to come.
AT&T says the platform will feature a new user interface, cloud DVR, live channels, 4K/UltraHD and HD video, and up to 30,000 on-demand titles. Additional features, including live TV pausing and parental controls, are slated for availability once the platform exits beta testing later this year. Other features, such as user profiles, download and go, and 4K HDR, are planned for 2018.
"We all want easy and quick access to our content, regardless of where, when or on what device we watch it," said David Christopher, chief marketing officer, AT&T Entertainment Group. "By developing for a single video platform, we'll deliver new features and platform innovations in a faster, more efficient way. And it will be simple and consistent wherever you watch - TV, phone or tablet."
