DIRECTV brings Sports Central to iPhone and iPad with major app update

DIRECTV has expanded its Sports Central feature beyond television screens, launching a major update to its iOS app that brings the live sports hub to iPhone and iPad users. The streaming service announced the rollout in a blog post today, marking a significant expansion of its sports-focused functionality to mobile devices.

Sports Central, which has been available on DIRECTV devices as a built-in hub for finding and managing live sports, now offers the same comprehensive experience on iOS. The update is available immediately through the App Store, requiring users to simply tap "Update" to access the new features.

Once updated, DIRECTV subscribers can access Sports Central by tapping the "Sports" icon in the app's navigation bar. The company highlights six key features that make the mobile experience robust:

• Live game discovery: Find games currently airing across DIRECTV channels
• Schedule browsing: View upcoming schedules to stay informed about what's coming next
• Detailed exploration: Access league, matchup, and team pages for comprehensive game details
• Recording capabilities: Record games airing on DIRECTV channels, including specific matchups or favorite teams
• Personalization: Favorite teams so their games and updates appear front and center
• Cross-platform integration: Access games from streaming apps like YouTube, Prime Video, ESPN Select, and Peacock alongside DIRECTV channels (separate subscriptions may be required)

This expansion represents DIRECTV's recognition of how viewers consume sports content across multiple devices. The mobile version maintains the core functionality that made Sports Central popular on TV while adding the convenience of on-the-go access.

In addition to the Sports Central rollout, DIRECTV announced new multiview March Madness Mix configurations. These allow users to watch multiple games simultaneously on a single screen, catering to the tournament's popularity and the demand for comprehensive viewing options during major sporting events.

The timing of this update aligns with the company's promotional efforts. DIRECTV is running a promotion through April 23 that includes its Sports Pack offering free for one month through its CHOICE package, priced at $59.99 per month. This promotion provides an opportunity for new and existing subscribers to explore the expanded sports features without additional cost.

For iPhone and iPad users, the update transforms how they interact with live sports through DIRECTV. Rather than being tethered to a television, subscribers can now track games, set recordings, and access comprehensive sports information from anywhere. The integration with other streaming services also acknowledges the fragmented nature of sports broadcasting rights, allowing users to manage content across multiple platforms within a single interface.

The DIRECTV app update reflects broader trends in sports consumption, where viewers expect seamless experiences across devices. By bringing Sports Central to mobile platforms, DIRECTV positions itself competitively in the streaming landscape, where convenience and comprehensive features increasingly determine user loyalty.

The update is available now through the App Store, requiring users to update to the latest version of the DIRECTV app to access Sports Central features on their iPhone or iPad.