Review: DirecTV

[cjvitek]

DirecTV is a free app supplied by DirecTV for programming your DVR box. Originally there was a web interface you could use, but it was woefully lacking in terms of features. The new app is actually quite nice.

WHen starting the app, you can input your direcTV account name and password. The app will save them if you want so you don't have to re-enter them. (If you are paranoid about it getting out, you can disable the auto login feature). You can select what channels are shown (all channels, only ones you get, etc) and you can also do things like disable the adult channels and hide SD duplicates.

When looking for shows, you can search for them or simply browse the channel lineup. When browsing the channels, you can list them alphabetically or by channel number (this is a nice feature if you don't remember the name but remember around where the channel number is when you are watching TV).

After choosing a channel, you can look through the timeline of shows. When you find a show you want, tapping on it will give you a little synopsis. You can then choose to record that episode, or record the entire series. When you choose to record, you can sleect the various options (like how long to keep it, what priority relative to the other shows, and what DVR to use).

Unfortunately there is no way to see what you currently have recorded or what you are currently scheduled to record. That would be a nice feature to add - to be able to manage your recording rather than simply set up a new one. But it is nice to be able to set up a new recording if you need to.

Pros: Can record shows while not at home, good interface, easy to find shows you want

Cons: Can manage recordings or scheduled recordings

All in all, this is a great app to have if you have DirecTV. You can schedule a recording on the DVR if you forgot to do it (or if you hear about a show you want) from anywhere using the iPhone. I have already used it many times when I have forgotten to record a show (and a couple times after talking to someone about a show, I decide to record it at see what it is like). You can't manage recordings, but maybe that will be in a future update. For thre price (free) there is no reason not to have this app if you have a DirecTV DVR. Four and a half out of five stars.

Rating scale:

* = No redeeming qualities or features, probably not worth it even if it is free
** = Few redeeming qualities, or is simply isn't worth the price
*** = Some good features but also some clear flaws.
**** = A solid app, worth the money if interested, a few flaws or problems or slightly overpriced
***** = Top of the line app, no problems or drawbacks.

Price is factored into the ratings. Ratings are lowered if I feel the price of the app outweighs the benefits/enjoyment/features it provides. Likewise, an app that is a good value for the money will have a higher rating.