Focus Broadband, a regional telecommunications provider based in southeastern North Carolina, has officially transitioned its residential and business TV services to DirecTV, a subsidiary of AT&T. This move marks the end of Focus Broadband’s video service operations and redirects both current and new customers to DIRECTV for television content.
This article explains the key details you need to understand—from why this shift is happening to how it affects your current service options. Whether you're an existing subscriber evaluating your choices or a potential customer considering service through DIRECTV, this guide breaks down what to expect and how to move forward.
Focus Broadband has made a decisive pivot in how it approaches television. After years of delivering in-house TV services, the company is now referring customers to DIRECTV. This marks a clear shift in strategic direction—one that aligns more closely with the evolving demands of the telecommunications industry. As of now, Focus Broadband no longer signs up new TV service subscribers and has ceased promotional efforts for its legacy offerings. Their focus has turned to strengthening core products like internet and voice while facilitating access to high-quality TV services through partnership.
Three primary factors have driven the decision to sunset Focus Broadband’s television services. First, the cost structure of traditional cable technology has become increasingly unsustainable. Equipment maintenance, software updates, and compliance with retransmission consent agreements have all escalated operational expenses.
Second, consumer behavior has shifted dramatically. According to Leichtman Research Group, as of Q1 2023, more than 76% of U.S. households now subscribe to a streaming service, up from 52% five years ago. This trend underscores a move away from traditional linear TV toward on-demand and app-based viewing—something that legacy systems aren’t built to support efficiently.
Third, competition from satellite and internet-based providers has intensified. Streaming services and flexible bundles from companies like DIRECTV enable households to personalize TV experiences at a lower entry point. Focus Broadband’s legacy TV platform couldn't compete on either functionality or cost, making the transition logical and timely.
The process began rolling out in phases. By mid-2023, Focus Broadband stopped offering new TV installations. Existing customers were notified in Q4 2023 of planned deactivation dates. The official cutoff for legacy TV services is set for late 2024, though this may vary slightly based on geographic service area. Ahead of this deadline, subscribers receive detailed transition guidance, including information on equipment return, billing adjustments, and referral resources for DIRECTV services.
Households still using Focus Broadband TV will see advisory messages appear on screens as the transition window narrows. Support staff remains available to help customers move to DIRECTV in a seamless and informed manner.
Focus Broadband no longer provides its own traditional TV service and now refers customers exclusively to DIRECTV. This move aligns with a broader industry shift away from managing small-scale TV operations toward partnerships with national providers that offer more comprehensive solutions. By referring customers to DIRECTV, Focus Broadband ensures continuity of service while stepping away from the costs and complexities of operating its own cable infrastructure.
DIRECTV, owned by AT&T Inc., handles content delivery, customer management, and equipment installation under this referral program. AT&T's nationwide support infrastructure and extensive content distribution network power DIRECTV’s ability to serve both rural and urban markets efficiently. Focus Broadband acts purely as a referral agent—meaning once a customer signs up with DIRECTV, the operational experience is fully handled by DIRECTV and AT&T systems.
Here’s what happens when a Focus Broadband customer transitions through the DIRECTV referral:
This referral arrangement offers streamlined service continuity for customers while enabling Focus Broadband to concentrate solely on high-speed internet and connectivity initiatives. For households that relied on Focus Broadband’s legacy cable system, DIRECTV now provides an upgraded path with national coverage and broader content access.
Focus Broadband is sunsetting its traditional cable TV service as part of its transition toward a partnership with DIRECTV. Current subscribers to Focus Broadband’s cable TV will see that service phased out. No automatic migration will occur—existing users must actively choose their next steps.
Following the service change, customers will need to select one of several routes based on their preferences for television viewing. These include:
Every current TV subscriber must take action before cable service cuts off. No TV content will be accessible beyond the service end date if steps aren’t taken. Here's what needs to happen:
Proactive communication will prevent service interruptions and enable a smooth transition. Customers who take the initiative early will gain more control over their desired entertainment experience.
DIRECTV now delivers a richer and more flexible TV experience, offering two primary service paths: DIRECTV via Satellite and DIRECTV Stream. Both channels address different viewing preferences, whether users want a traditional setup with maximum channel selection or a modern, app-based TV model that requires no dish.
For customers transitioning from Focus Broadband TV, the split between satellite and streaming options widens the range of possible setups. DIRECTV Satellite continues to serve areas with limited internet access, offering a reliable signal even in storms. In contrast, DIRECTV Stream caters to users already relying on broadband, providing live and on-demand television through internet-connected devices.
DIRECTV builds value by combining content delivery with user-centric enhancements. High-definition broadcasting comes standard across both platforms, with most plans including access to 4K Ultra HD channels. The DVR service—Genie for satellite and Cloud DVR for streaming—enables flexible viewing with hundreds of hours of recording capacity.
Bundles that include internet and TV service streamline billing and product management. This integrated approach suits households looking to consolidate services under one provider while maintaining high-quality entertainment and connectivity.
Whether you lean toward a traditional viewing method or prefer an entirely app-based experience, DIRECTV’s offerings now align more closely with the way real households watch television. Which model fits your lifestyle: the simplicity of streaming or the reach of satellite?
DIRECTV delivers a broader range of channel options compared to the legacy Focus Broadband TV service. Subscribers can access an extensive lineup that includes local channels, regional sports networks, nationwide news, and international content. Premium packages offer HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, STARZ, and MGM+ — all through a single platform. For sports fans, DIRECTV provides exclusive access to out-of-market games via NFL Sunday Ticket, along with MLB, NBA, and NHL packages, depending on the plan.
With DIRECTV, content goes beyond the living room. The service integrates seamlessly with streaming, allowing customers to watch live TV and on-demand shows across multiple devices. Laptops, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs — every screen works. Cloud DVR functionality enables recordings to be accessed remotely, and simultaneous streaming lets different household members enjoy separate shows at the same time.
DIRECTV’s satellite-based infrastructure consistently delivers HD and 4K Ultra HD broadcasts, lowering the risk of compression issues that can affect picture sharpness. In areas where weather conditions occasionally interfere with satellite reception, the hybrid delivery model — satellite plus internet streaming — reduces downtime. For many customers transitioning from Focus Broadband’s cable-based system, this means a step up in visual fidelity and consistent uptime.
Those switching to DIRECTV through the Focus Broadband referral program may qualify for bundled promotions and introductory pricing not available to the general public. Offers may include discounted rates on top-tier packages during the first 12 months, free premium channels for a limited time, or waived installation fees. Focus Broadband customers are encouraged to inquire directly to get individualized pricing based on their current service level and desired upgrades.
Focus Broadband delivers fiber-optic internet with speeds reaching up to 1 Gbps, a bandwidth that comfortably supports 4K Ultra HD streaming across multiple devices simultaneously. This level of connectivity eliminates buffering delays and pixelation issues, especially during peak traffic hours when many users are online.
For households using DIRECTV Stream, latency averages remain low—typically under 15 milliseconds—ensuring real-time responsiveness while navigating menus or switching channels. Upload speeds also support fast performance for cloud DVR access and streaming from multiple apps without congestion.
DIRECTV Stream integrates effortlessly with Focus Broadband’s infrastructure. To maximize performance, pair your service with a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router, which offers better range and device handling than older standards. Direct-wired ethernet connections still deliver the most consistent results, especially with 4K content streaming or simultaneous video conferencing and gaming alongside TV viewing.
Want the simplest setup? Use the DIRECTV Gemini device, which combines live TV, voice search, and streaming platforms in one streamlined interface—perfect for minimizing cable clutter and remote juggling.
Although DIRECTV Stream is the central TV solution through Focus Broadband, the high-speed internet service is versatile enough to support other OTT platforms without compromise.
Whether staying loyal to DIRECTV or experimenting with other services, Focus Broadband’s internet backbone ensures reliable delivery—crucial in an environment where streaming is no longer supplemental but central to home entertainment.
Switching from Focus Broadband TV services to DIRECTV brings changes in how television service is delivered to your home. DIRECTV offers two main setups: traditional satellite TV and internet-based streaming. The choice between the two directly affects installation needs.
Fiber or high-speed internet service is essential for uninterrupted streaming performance. Opting for streaming eliminates the need for physical cabling and allows more placement flexibility within the home.
DIRECTV provides smart, integrated devices designed to centralize content access and simplify TV control. Equipment may vary depending on whether users choose satellite or streaming service.
The timeline for installation depends on customer selection—satellite vs. streaming—and local technician availability. Typically, installations occur within 3 to 7 days after activating a new DIRECTV subscription.
Installation appointments include testing signals, connecting TVs, and ensuring account activation. Streaming service activation can also be completed entirely online, without technician assistance.
All DIRECTV installations are handled by DIRECTV-certified technicians. Focus Broadband does not perform satellite or streaming service installations for DIRECTV. Customers transitioning from Focus Broadband's legacy TV service will work directly with DIRECTV's scheduling team to arrange equipment delivery or technician visits.
The certified technicians manage every aspect of the install—from hardware placement to account linking—ensuring all DIRECTV functionality is operational before they leave the residence. Custom setups, such as additional receivers or complex home wiring, are also handled during these visits.
DIRECTV offers four primary package tiers, each tailored to match different entertainment needs and budgets. The lineup begins with Entertainment, continues through Choice and Ultimate, and caps off with Premier.
DIRECTV via satellite operates primarily on a 2-year contract, while DIRECTV via Internet offers month-to-month flexibility. Customers prioritizing commitment-free plans lean toward the streaming option, while those seeking consistent pricing often consider long-term satellite subscriptions.
At face value, both delivery methods begin at similar pricing thresholds—$69.99/month for base packages. However, the divergence begins with installation and added equipment:
Some costs fall outside the base subscription rate. Here’s where many customers see their bill edge upward:
Customers transitioning from Focus Broadband TV to DIRECTV receive
Promotional pricing applies for up to 12 months, after which the regular rate resumes. The most competitive discounts are available on the Entertainment and Choice packages during the migration window.
DIRECTV offers significantly broader channel lineups compared to what Focus Broadband TV provided. Legacy Focus TV packages typically included a limited selection of basic cable channels, with fewer high-definition options and restricted access to premium content. In contrast, DIRECTV delivers an array of packages, ranging from essentials to extensive entertainment suites.
All packages support HD and 4K Ultra HD where available, a notable upgrade for viewers who previously relied on standard-definition options with certain Focus Broadband plans.
DIRECTV incorporates regionally tailored sports content through its access to RSNs (Regional Sports Networks), a crucial addition missing from many Focus TV packages. Markets such as North Carolina gain access to Bally Sports South, ACC Network, and MASN depending on ZIP code and selected package.
For local and national news, DIRECTV includes major broadcasters such as MSNBC, FOX News, CNN, and regional affiliates like WRAL and WFMY (subject to location). Premium movie fans can access full suites from:
Beyond core packages, subscribers can customize their viewing with an array of niche add-ons. DIRECTV offers:
Select add-ons are offered as standalone monthly subscriptions, while others can be bundled for additional savings when joining multiple services at once. Customers moving from Focus TV gain access to an entertainment experience that scales with personal preferences and evolving media habits.
Focus Broadband’s migration from its legacy TV services to a partnership with DIRECTV marks a decisive step in aligning with current viewing trends and consumer expectations. This transition substitutes older infrastructure with a more dynamic service model powered by DIRECTV’s satellite and streaming capabilities.
Subscribers will no longer access traditional Focus Broadband TV packages. Instead, all television services are now provided through DIRECTV. This shift introduces upgraded features, broader channel variety, and multiple ways to watch—across satellite, internet, and mobile platforms.
For current Focus Broadband customers, the key action points are clear:
The integration with DIRECTV strengthens the overall product suite offered by Focus Broadband. Customers receive access to premium HD content, live sports, on-demand libraries, and cloud-based DVR options, all while retaining support from a trusted local provider. This partnership reflects long-term investments in quality, not just functionality. It doesn’t just replace a service—it enhances the experience as a whole.
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