DIRECTV vs Viaplay Group

DIRECTV Quietly Improves Streaming Picture Quality

DIRECTV has quietly rolled out a significant improvement to picture quality across its streaming service, raising the bitrate on live channels over the past week. The change was implemented without a formal announcement, marketing campaign, or update to app settings screens. Customers began noticing cleaner images on standard televisions before industry observers could document the shift. The higher data rate applies to internet-delivered linear streams, covering news, entertainment, and sports channels. The improvement is most visible in motion, reducing blocky patches, smearing, and color banding. Static details also benefit, with hair, fabric, and on-screen text appearing sharper. The gain depends on home bandwidth; viewers on stable connections will see the fullest image. Cloud DVR recordings made after the change inherit the improved stream. DIRECTV has not announced specific target rates or the extent of the rollout.

• DIRECTV increased bitrate on live streaming channels in the past week.
• The change was implemented without formal announcement or marketing campaign.
• The improvement applies to internet-delivered linear streams including news, entertainment, and sports.

DIRECTV Tests Next-Gen Gemini Streaming Device

DIRECTV is conducting a limited, invitation-only trial of its next-generation Gemini streaming player. The trial includes existing Gemini device users and customers who primarily use the DIRECTV app on third-party hardware, to evaluate performance and user experience. The company aims to assess speed, stability, and interface improvements. Regulatory filings earlier this year hinted at a more powerful chipset and newer Android TV software. No public launch date, pricing, or availability details have been announced. Results will shape decisions on broader rollout and whether the device will replace current models or serve as a premium option.

• DIRECTV is conducting an invitation-only trial of a next-generation Gemini streaming device.
• The trial includes existing Gemini device users and app-only customers.
• The purpose is to evaluate device performance and user experience.

DIRECTV Launches Military Makeover FAST Channel

DIRECTV is launching a new free ad-supported streaming (FAST) channel dedicated to the series 'Military Makeover with Montel' across its MyFree DIRECTV, Genre Packs, and Signature streaming packages. The channel will feature over 200 episodes spanning 44 seasons of the show, which focuses on transforming homes for military families. The rollout begins today, September 22, 2026. DIRECTV's chief marketing officer, Vince Torres, highlighted the company's commitment to supporting veterans through partnerships with organizations like the Bob Woodruff Foundation. The expansion of FAST channels is part of DIRECTV's strategy to offer diverse, ad-supported content to its streaming customers, enhancing its free tier and genre-specific offerings.

• DIRECTV is adding a new dedicated FAST channel for 'Military Makeover with Montel'.
• The channel will be available on MyFree DIRECTV, DIRECTV Genre Packs, and Signature streaming packages.
• The channel features over 200 episodes spanning 44 seasons of the series.

Viaplay Group’s Nomination Committee convened

In accordance with Viaplay Group AB's ("Viaplay Group") Nomination Committe...

Viaplay Launches Next-Generation Allente STB User Experience Powered by 3SS 3Ready

Viaplay Group has deployed a next-generation STB user experience for its flagship Allente super-aggregated entertainment service across the Nordic region, powered by 3SS's 3Ready platform. The deployment features SDMC DV9865 AI set-top boxes with a 4 TOPS NPU running Android TV 14, paired with programmable Notus L12 smart remote controls from Tech4home (t4h.) to unify live TV and third-party streaming.

• Viaplay Group launched an upgraded Allente STB user experience powered by 3SS's 3Ready Platform across Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland, supporting profile-based Experience Modes for Live TV, On-Demand, and Kids.
• Hardware architecture integrates SDMC's DV9865 set-top box equipped with an Amlogic S905X5-J SoC, ARM Quad 64-bit CPU, Android TV 14 Operator Tier OS, and a dedicated 4 TOPS NPU for on-device AI tasks.
• Features t4h. (Tech4home) Notus L12 programmable smart remote controls with 4 customizable shortcut buttons integrated with 3Ready Control Center, alongside aggregated access to Viaplay, Apple TV, Prime Video, HBO Max, and SkyShowtime.

Viaplay Group’s Q2 2026 Interim Report January–June

Transformation plan on track. Sale of Dutch operations to focus Group on th...