Google TV will be integrated into hotel rooms starting in 2026 through a partnership with DIRECTV, featuring a customized, simplified interface for guests to access streaming services and live TV, with a focus on privacy and personalization. The platform will look different from the standard Google TV experience, tailored specifically for hospitality use.
DirecTV offers a promotional deal for Signature Pack subscribers with a Gemini device, including free access to Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN, along with a discounted bundle rate, making it a cost-effective way to watch Dancing With the Stars Season 34 and other streaming content.
A $23 billion spectrum sale from EchoStar to AT&T has revived speculation about a potential merger between satellite TV giants DirecTV and DISH Network, which could reshape the pay-TV industry amid ongoing cord-cutting trends. The deal provides DISH with liquidity and may facilitate a long-shelved merger, offering synergies and cost savings, though regulatory approval remains uncertain. The move signals a strategic recalibration for EchoStar, which is diversifying into broadband satellite services while navigating financial challenges.
Merger talks between Dish Network and DirecTV may restart following AT&T's $23 billion spectrum license purchase from EchoStar, which could unlock shareholder value and influence stock movements. The deal requires FCC approval and is part of broader strategic shifts involving spectrum sales and satellite services expansion.
DirecTV has terminated its acquisition of satellite TV rival Dish due to Dish bondholders rejecting a debt exchange proposal, which was crucial for the merger. The deal, initially announced in September, aimed to consolidate the shrinking pay TV market by combining DirecTV and Dish's 20 million subscribers. DirecTV CEO Bill Morrow cited the need to protect the company's balance sheet and operational flexibility as reasons for the termination. This marks the second failed merger attempt between the two companies, following a blocked deal in 2002.
DirecTV has terminated its deal to acquire Dish Network's satellite business due to disagreements over exchange terms with Dish bondholders. Despite this, AT&T's plan to sell its 70% stake in DirecTV to TPG is still proceeding, with completion expected in the second half of 2025. EchoStar, Dish's parent company, aims to focus on its 5G network ambitions. DirecTV and Dish previously attempted a merger over two decades ago, which was blocked by antitrust concerns.
DirecTV has canceled its agreement to merge with Echostar's satellite TV business, which includes Dish TV, due to unfavorable debt exchange terms. The merger would have created a major pay TV distributor with 20 million subscribers. DirecTV was set to assume $9.75 billion of Dish's debt, but the deal required Dish bondholders to accept a significant debt reduction. The termination, effective Friday, was necessary to protect DirecTV's financial stability, according to CEO Bill Morrow.
DirecTV has abandoned its acquisition of Dish Network's DBS unit after bondholders rejected a crucial debt-exchange proposal. The merger, which aimed to create the largest U.S. pay-TV provider, was terminated to protect DirecTV's financial stability. EchoStar's stock fell significantly following the bondholders' decision, highlighting the financial challenges faced by both companies amid the decline of traditional pay-TV services.
DirecTV has terminated its planned acquisition of Dish Network after bondholders rejected a crucial debt swap, which was essential for the deal's success. The merger was seen as vital for the survival of both struggling satellite TV providers. Despite the setback, DirecTV's CEO Bill Morrow stated the company is well-positioned for the future with a strong balance sheet. This marks the second failed merger attempt between the two companies, with the first blocked in 2002 due to competition concerns.
Dish Network's creditors have rejected a bond-exchange offer crucial to its proposed merger with DirecTV, as the deadline for the deal approaches. The steering committee of Dish lenders criticized the offer, claiming it was engineered at the expense of creditors. Despite a sweetened proposal, the creditors remain opposed. Meanwhile, Dish's parent company, EchoStar, has successfully negotiated a separate debt exchange. The merger aims to create the largest US pay-TV provider, but faces challenges including ongoing litigation over asset transfers.
The 2024 MLB Home Run Derby will take place on Monday, July 15 at 8 p.m. ET at Globe Life Field in Arlington, TX, and will be broadcast on ESPN. Notable participants include Gunnar Henderson, Pete Alonso, Alec Bohm, Bobby Witt Jr., and Marcell Ozuna. The event is part of MLB All-Star Week, which features various activities and can be streamed on platforms like DirecTV Stream, Fubo, and ESPN+.
Opening arguments are starting in a class-action lawsuit against the NFL by "Sunday Ticket" subscribers, who claim the league broke antitrust laws by allowing DirecTV to exclusively sell the package at inflated prices. The case, which could last up to three weeks, may reveal financial details about the NFL's broadcasting deals, including YouTube's current agreement for "Sunday Ticket." NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones are expected to testify.
The NFL is facing a federal antitrust trial in Los Angeles over its "Sunday Ticket" telecast, with potential damages reaching up to $21 billion. Plaintiffs claim the NFL's exclusive deal with DirecTV inflated prices and restricted distribution. The trial, which could see testimonies from high-profile NFL figures, will determine if the league is liable and may lead to changes in the "Sunday Ticket" distribution model.
The NFL faces a high-stakes antitrust lawsuit in L.A. over its Sunday Ticket package, with claims that the league's agreements with broadcast partners allowed DirecTV to charge inflated prices. The trial could reveal much about the NFL's business practices, with potential damages up to $7 billion.