Gemini mini

@Juniper 

the Gemini box does indeed have built in apps as it is essentially the DIRECTV STREAM box but with software to make it compatible with the HS17. 

@detuch254 

I was referring that apps (Roku, Smart TV, etc.) do not stream to TV for DirecTV (satellite). Sorry for the confusion.

@Juniper 

Got it. My fault I had misread your original statement. No problem. 

@staylo27 The Gemini can be wireless or wired (requires DirecTV Ethernet Coax Adapter). It also supports 4k. With it one has access to the Google Play store and can download additional apps. There is access to the Google assistant with the voice remote. One can directly access other streaming services through the Gemini so no other streaming devices are needed. Whether these are significant advantages is up to the individual to decide. With the initial launch it is only available as an upgrade to existing Genie 2 customers but eventually will be available to those with HR54 and HR44.

Thank you. You have 100 times the knowledge of the DirecTV reps. I spent an hour trying to get four Geminis, two wired and two wireless. I got an hour runaround about what I could and couldn’t get, with no firm answer. Asked for supervisor, too busy, will call back. Four hours later, no callback. It’s too bad because now that I am educated, I really want the Gemini.

They have really cratered since AT&T took over.

@john21mart They have shipped the wrong streaming firmware Gemini version instead of the DTV version.

A known issue is some Gemini boxes are shipped with the DIRECTV STREAM firmware instead of what DirecTV (satellite) needs. So far, there hasn't been an option for the user to initiate an update/switchover to the correct side.

I'm still hoping for a newer full HDDVR that works with the Genie setups, instead of a Client-only based system. Haven't heard anything from the new co-owner regarding their intended direction (equipment or otherwise), so keeping an ear out for more info.

Okay, a technician came out from DirecTV. Did not have a clue about Gemini and kept telling me that the MAC address on the Gemini did not match the MAC address shown on the screen. After 2 hours with him, 2 hours on the phone with a dedicated service technician this past Saturday, I give up. The funny thing is they are nagging me for my old equipment and I'm still using it, LOL... I don't know whether to return it or wait until they improve this tech support in the next 30 days. Any thoughts would be appreciated

I would suggest that you do something before the 7 days, you could run into the problem of a renewed contract for the same old service if they take it back in a couple of weeks because of incompetence.

A "supervisor" called and said she could get this working, so I am trying again tomorrow morning! She also said that with the Gemini receivers you don't need the coax cables because of being connected with the Genie 2??? Remains to be seen...I'll keep you all posted!

@john21mart 

The Gemini can be configured for wired setup or wireless setup. So, that agent is correct.

So, if you don't connect via Coax and your internet goes out, do you still have a "satellite" signal???

Yes because it would still be connected to your DirecTV server wirelessly. You then have 30 days to reconnect to the internet or you will lose service.