Navigating the DIRECTV Select package channels for 2019 requires understanding the specific lineup designed for cost-conscious viewers who still wanted access to popular entertainment. This package was positioned as a streamlined entry point into the DIRECTV ecosystem, offering a curated selection of networks without the premium price tag of higher tiers. For families or individuals in 2019, it represented a balance between essential viewing and budget management, providing a foundation of familiar channels.
Defining the Select Package in 2019
The DIRECTV Select package in 2019 served as the company's core offering, deliberately stripped of premium movie channels to appeal to new subscribers and those looking to minimize their monthly bill. While the exact channel order could vary slightly by region, the core identity of the package remained consistent, focusing on widely viewed broadcast and cable networks. This strategic positioning allowed DIRECTV to compete aggressively with satellite alternatives and emerging streaming services by lowering the barrier to entry.
Core Entertainment and News
Viewers subscribing to the 2019 Select package could expect a robust lineup of general entertainment and news channels that form the backbone of any television experience. These channels were essential for daily viewing, covering a wide range of genres from scripted dramas to reality television. The inclusion of these specific outlets ensured that the package remained a viable option for households seeking comprehensive programming without unnecessary add-ons.
USA Network
Syfy
TNT
TBS
CNN
Fox News
MSNBC
Sports and Kids Content
Recognizing the importance of live events and family viewing, DIRECTV integrated key sports and children’s channels into the Select package for 2019. This move was critical for attracting sports fans and parents who needed reliable, cable-based programming for their children. The inclusion of these specific outlets meant that subscribers did not need to immediately upgrade to higher packages to access popular programming blocks.
ESPN
ESPN2
ESPNU
Disney Channel
Nickelodeon
Cartoon Network
Limitations and Channel Gaps
It is important to note that the DIRECTV Select package channels 2019 were defined by what they excluded as much as what they included. The most significant gap was the absence of all premium channels, such as HBO, Showtime, and STARZ, which were locked behind higher-tier subscriptions. Furthermore, niche networks focused on specific interests like cooking, gardening, or international news were typically absent, requiring upgrades for specialized viewing needs.
Regional Variations and Local Channels
While the core national lineup provided a consistent baseline, DIRECTV ensured that the Select package remained relevant by incorporating local channels based on the subscriber's geographic location. This dynamic aspect of the 2019 package meant that viewers in New York might have access to different local news affiliates than those in Los Angeles. Checking the specific local channel lineups was always a necessary step during the signup process to confirm regional availability.
Comparing Select to Higher Packages
Understanding the DIRECTV Select package channels 2019 becomes clearer when contrasted with the "Choice" and "Xtra" packages, which were the immediate tiers above. The primary differentiator was the inclusion of premium movie channels in Choice and the addition of more extensive sports networks in Xtra. This tiered structure allowed customers to easily identify the package that aligned with their specific interest in film or athletics, making the Select package the default for those with more basic viewing habits.
