Hands-On Review: DIRECTV Gemini

[tomdayton]

I like the Gemini a lot. Peacock kept freezing through the direct LG Smart TV app, but comes through perfectly with Gemini! I do like the old Directv remote style better because the buttons were easier to identify in the dark with their size and color coding. It looks like to enable the backlighting on the new remote, you have to press any button, but I inevitably mistakenly change the channel, which is a pain if you’re watching on a delay. It needs bigger or more distinct buttons for old people like me can navigate it in the dark! 😂

[tarzanfixjane]

I work for DTV. I have always loved DTV, and I finally get to work here :) I will tell you, ignoring our R&D was not the only way AT&T screwed our company up. I like AT&T and but DTV is NOT their bag of tea. The worst thing they did, was brag about how much money they were worth. That caused the price-hikes on the DTV bill every year. We are trying to clean that up now, and it sucks. I really have always liked DTV since highschool. But fixing what AT&T did? There is some animosity, I wont lie

[TNGweilo]

Thank you. I probably will not get the gemini box. I have no problem with current streaming setup. I also don't care for that "rental fee". However, if do, I will call you as this was very informative. Thanks again.

[cfnadmore]

Does this allow you to punch in a channel number directly while using the DirecTV app? I'm looking for something akin to a "regular cable box" for my parents.

[joshacox]

I have the old AT&T ospray box (bought a refurb for $50 last year) and I have Dtv stream going on it right now but my account says I have the “Gemini”.

[austinturner]

Should I get DirecTV via Satellite or Internet? I have fast internet but sat has more channels for the same price and contract requirement

[SantiagoPATube]

I live by the D TV remote “Last 4” channels function. I que up the top 5 channels I like this hour and switch back and forth during commercials or when I lose interest. Does this streaming remote keep the “last 4” function?

[dkalkwarf]

How does recording work? I have heard that the Gemini will record to the cloud, but cannot find information about that.

Does DirecTV charge for this? What are the limits? Will it record streaming apps' programming or just DirecTV programming?

[carlosoofficial]

I don’t know what a new DIRECTV Genie HD-DVR with Gemini firmware included and the Gemini Voice Remote could look like.

One thing: Since this wouldn’t be based on the Genie 2, it can also support older HD-DVRs.

I have thought of this as bringing back the original model of DVRs used until the HR54, where the big DVR receiver (in this case, this new DIRECTV Genie DVR I am thinking of with Gemini firmware installed) would be the main box for the Whole Home DVR system and also allow non-client boxes to work.

I mean, it would basically have 2TB of DVR storage, around 6-10 tuners, the Gemini Voice Remote, Gemini firmware installed, and what else.

Because this doesn’t have a Wireless Video Bridge inside the DVR itself due to the fact that it brings back the original model, if more Gemini’s are included in a customer's install, then either a separate Wireless Video Bridge or Ethernet Coax Adapter would also be included.

Maybe if the H26K is rolled out to residential customers, they can also upgrade it to have Gemini firmware and also work with the new DIRECTV Genie HD-DVR that has Gemini firmware installed.

[erichoward]

Can you use the Gemini to replace the C61K-700 Genie client box. Will it play native 4k content (ch 104-105)?

[jakeybran]

I have been confused about this, can i use an osprey/gemini box as a client for my hs17 or is it only for DTV stream?

[moman]

Do this box works in Canada? Let’s say a relative buys that for me and I’ll take it up to Canada, making my monthly payment thru a credit card addressed in US of course

[davidmiller]

So the Gemini does use the Google Apps Store? One of your reps I spoke to via chat a few days ago said it didn't. They also said the Gemini's remote was NOT backlit, and even though you didn't mention it here, I've seen that it is backlit in other YT reviews. So which is it? Thanks in advance for the clarification on these two matters.

[rangavenkat]

Does it also work with DIRECTV Stream as well?

[jdeday]

Do you have to pay the $7 month fee for this device?

[scott]

I'm guessing there is no hard drive in this unit. Where are the recordings stored? Are they stored on the Genie box? My Genie drive is close to full. I need more recording space, not just another tuner. Will this work for me? It's frustrating how difficult it is to find an answer. I tried asking DTV customer service and they had no idea what I was talking about.

[briandarnell]

Is the display 1080p resolution when watching satellite instead of 1080i or 720p? Also will one Gemini work on multiple TV's that have genie minis?

[danram]

So Directv phased out Directv stream? Which you could just use the app without having to get a receiver.

[cfnadmore]

Do you know if it's possible to pair 2 remotes with it? I want it for my parents and they fight over the remote. ;P

[billbill]

I like my new receiver... Just hate the remote that comes with it... Button's are flush and hard to feel