DirecTV launches on-demand service

The Capital Times  —  7/07/2008 7:11 am

DirecTV has officially launched its on-demand service, eliminating one of cable's biggest advantages over the No. 1 satellite provider.

The company announced this week that DirecTV on Demand is offering customers more than 4,000 standard-definition and high-definition titles, and is available at no additional charge to subscribers with a DirecTV PlusHD DVR or R22 DVR receiver.

DirecTV has been testing the service since last fall. It does require a high-speed Internet connection, a router or an Internet gateway with an available Ethernet port, and equipment to network the HD DVR or R22 DVR. It can be set up directly or wirelessly, either by self-installation or professional installation.

The service allows customers to download programming they select to their DVRs to view when they want. Some content, primarily blockbuster movies, is pushed to the customer's DVR via satellite with charges occurring only when a customer views the content.

It also enables remote scheduling of a DVR from an Internet-connected computer or mobile phone.

"We are continuing to not only level, but elevate the playing field among pay TV providers with a dynamic on demand service that truly answers the needs of our customers and provides them with a robust lineup of on demand programming," said Eric Shanks, executive vice president of DirecTV Entertainment, in a statement.

The Capital Times  —  7/07/2008 7:11 am