Gemini Device

That's true if you sign up for Directv via Internet. Directv Stream doesn't have device fees or a contract and you van bring your own device. You can buy Directv Gemini devices from Ebay, Walmart, Solid Signal, or Amazon.  streamtv.directv.com

Thank you!  I’m a rookie and doing a trial with DirectTV streaming.  AT&T told me that I needed a Samsung TV, Roku or Firestick in order to get their service.  I’ll check out their Gemini remote at one of the retailers that you mention.

Ok but which service did you sign up for? There are 2. Directv via Internet and Directv stream.  via Internet has device fees and includes a Gemini Air dongle plus a 2 yr contract. Directv Stream has no fees--no contract and you bring your own device. Also, it's not ATT---it's Directv

I signed up for Direct TV Streaming.  Sorry for the slip about AT&T.  I went into an AT&T store but called Direct TV later.

Though technically still an owner, AT&T has spun off all their TV services back into their own entity. Most operations are handled by the new co-owner. And even when AT&T acquired the DirecTV brand, the AT&T stores were always 3rd party in relation to anything DirecTV. So those stores at most could only sell/advertise services like any other 3rd party Authorized Retailer. Just something to be aware of so you're always talking to the correct side/department for what you have.

Remember whether satellite, STREAM, or via Internet (newer streaming option but operates closer to the main satellite service) it is DirecTV not Direct TV. Something to be careful of as there are a lot of scams out there that try to catch you with those little typos.

Thank you very much!

I have another question related to DirecTV remotes.  As I said, I have DirecTV Stream with no devices (I have a Samsung TV).  I'd like a remote that is easier to navigate than the Samsung TV remote.  I ordered a Gemini DirecTV remote from Amazon.  I could not get it connected to my TV so I chatted with DirecTV.  I was told that I would need to use my Samsung remote since the DirecTV Gemini remote won't work without a device.  True?  If not, what remote should I purchase?  Thanks for your help!!

The Gemini remote is for the Gemini. It was not built to control the app on other devices. The benefit of the Gemini and their remote is actual channel numbers you can press that all the others don't have.

Simply put, with the streaming service you use the remote of whatever streaming option you use. If a app on the TV itself you use the TV remote. On a Roku, use the Roku remote. And so on and so on.

Thank you Juniper!  That makes sense.  I was just confused about the different services.  I think that I understand now.  The benefit that you mention about channel numbers on the Gemini remote, record option button, etc. is what I was after but it looks like I will need to get used to another process since DirecTV internet would charge a significant amount extra just to basically get the remote 😊.  I appreciate everyone's response to my inquiries!!

You can purchase the device from 3rd parties like eBay, Amazon, or Solid Signal and use with the DirecTV Stream service. By going with 3rd parties, there are no additional fees or contracts.

Oh, okay.  I’m learning 😊.  So the problem that I had originally is that I just purchased the DIRECTV remote.  So if I bought the DIRECTV device + remote then I can use that without paying DIRECTV every month.  Similar to a Firestick, correct?

Yes, that is correct. The remote you bought only works with the DirecTV device. 3rd party vendors sell the device with remotes.

Ok can they make it anymore confusing - basic questions 

1. I want an easy remote to “pick channels” by number (like the “old way”) and only want to use that device for programming 

2. So to avoid a 2 yr contract - do I sign up for directv streaming  - instead of directv over the internet? And then get the Gemini devices (if desired) from a 3rd party to operate the channels/programming 

in other words - I want to use one device that only plays that service - no multiple service (your tube, Hulu etc) that has simple channels with numbers you can select. Turn it on - select the channel and go - no other things to choose. 

Older  people can’t negotiate manipulating apps, changing services,and channels - I need to the easiest way to manage (with Firestick they keep signing up for services on Prime by mistake that we don’t want)

That is correct. Sign up for DirecTV Stream, not DirecTV Via Internet. DirecTV Stream has no contract or fees. You can purchase the Gemini device (that support channel numbers) from a 3rd party like SolidSignal, etc.

Walmart also sells Directv Stream box (also known as Osprey or Gemini box) for 40 bucks.