DirecTV Offers Unusual Solution Amid Disney Dispute #

DirecTV has taken an unconventional approach to address the ongoing dispute with Disney, which threatens to black out tonight’s ‘Monday Night Football’ game for its customers. The satellite provider is now offering credits and discounts for its customers to subscribe to competing streaming services.

In an effort to retain customers during this dispute, DirecTV has partnered with rival streaming services Sling and Fubo. Affected customers of DirecTV, DirecTV Stream, and U-Verse can now access free trials and discounts for these alternative services that carry ESPN and Disney networks.

The dispute between DirecTV and Disney has entered its second week, resulting in the blackout of ABC stations, ESPN, and other Disney-owned networks for over 11 million subscribers. This blackout comes at a critical time, with the upcoming presidential debate and the start of the NFL and college football seasons on the horizon.

DirecTV has filed a complaint with the Federal Communications Commission, alleging that Disney did not negotiate in good faith. The complaint suggests that negotiations have stalled due to Disney’s insistence on bundling and penetration requirements, which DirecTV claims a federal district court judge recently found to be unlawful and anticompetitive.

Despite the ongoing dispute and blackout, DirecTV plans to increase prices for its DirecTV Stream and traditional satellite services starting in October. Monthly fees will see increases ranging from $2 to $10, depending on the customer’s tier and service.

As negotiations continue, both parties urge a swift resolution to restore access to Disney’s content for DirecTV subscribers. The dispute highlights the ongoing challenges in the evolving landscape of content distribution and streaming services.