Despite the fact that DirecTV has had an Android app available for some time now. And not even counting the bit about them having an app available for the iPhone and iPad — they have finally released a tablet intended for Android users. The app, which is dubbed DirecTV for Tablets can be found in the Google Play Store, however some Android tablet users may not be able to use the app.
Before we get into that point, lets take a look at what DirecTV for Tablets does offer. The support includes Android devices running 3.1 or later and the features include streaming as well as the ability to browse the guide and remotely control your DVR. The app also has a remote control that can be used to replace your current stand-alone remote. The app also allows for some customization. For example, you can create a favorite channel list and also add, remove and reorder the modules. These modules include Live TV Streaming, Currently Watching, Channel Guide and more.
So far things seem to be looking pretty good in terms of the DirecTV for Tablets app. In fact, based on the Google Play Store screenshots and comments, it seems pretty good. In fact, one user had called the app a “gigantic improvement compared to the other DirecTV app.” Here comes the issue though, this app does not offer support for one rather popular Android tablet.
As you can see from the above screen capture, the Nexus 7 is not a supported device. We are not entirely sure if the folks at DirecTV think the Nexus 7 is actually a smartphone, of if this was simply an oversight. In the meantime, those rocking a Nexus 7 will be stuck using the original DirecTV app, which is intended for smartphones.
[via Google Play Store]
It’s not just the Nexus 7 but as far as I know, this new app isn’t compatible for ALL 7 inch tablets. It’s not compatible on my Toshiba 7.7. If this is truly the case that 7 inch tablets are not supported for some stupid reason, what is the point? I do hope they fix this issue.
I side-loaded it to my Nexus 7 and it seems to work fine!
Do you have to have DirecTV to use it and does it include NFL Sunday Ticket?
Thanks for the news, Robert. It sounds like the app has some neat features, but don’t they still limit the number of channels that can be streamed outside the home? I travel a lot for my job at DISH, and I use my tablet for most of my entertainment needs. On it resides my DIS Anywhere app, which streams all of my live TV channels as well as DVR recordings. It’s awesome because I get caught in layovers, and flight delays a lot; there isn’t a better way to pass that time than by watching a movie or a favorite TV show.