AT&T launches a new tablet meant for DirecTV streaming

You may not have asked for it, but AT&T is giving it to you anyway. The mobile carrier is launching a self-branded tablet, called the Primetime, that is intended to be used as a media consumption device. Specifically, a DirecTV consumption device.

AT&T mobile customers who are enrolled in either an Unlimited Choice or Unlimited Plus will be able to add an additional US$20 to their monthly plan and get a Primetime. Otherwise, the tablet costs US$10 a month for 20 months, or US$29.99 with a 2-year contract.

Specs-wise, the Primetime is a decent if unremarkable tablet. It comes with a 1200p display, 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB of RAM, and a microSD slot. It does feature a large, 9,070 mAh battery, so it should be good for long streaming sessions. 5-megapixel cameras can be found in the front and rear. AT&T has seen fit to ship its new tablet with Android Nougat, so at least it's not outdated in that regard. Dual front-facing speakers with Dolby audio are included to provide "incredible sound" while using your tablet in TV Mode.

TV Mode is the "standout" feature on the Primetime, and it is meant to qive users quick access to their favorite media apps, including—you guessed it—DirecTV. Apparently, having a shortcut to an app on your homescreen isn't convenient enough. According to AT&T, TV Mode lets you access media apps with a simple swipe from the home or lock screens. It's unclear if this means that TV Mode is a sort of floating app tray; if that's the case, it may actually be rather intrusive and inconvenient.

The AT&T Primetime will be available this Friday. DirecTV subscribers may be tempted to give the tablet a look, but as The Verge points out, if you already own a tablet (or a smartphone) you can always just download the DirecTV app, pin a shortcut to your homescreen, and enjoy your favorite shows and movies without forking over any money. Hard to disagree with that logic.

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