DirecTV joins list of providers with single sign-on support in iOS 10.2 & tvOS 10.1 betas

By Roger Fingas

A fifth TV provider, AT&T's DirecTV, has quietly appeared as an option for people trying single sign-on support in the iOS 10.2 or tvOS 10.1 betas.

Image Credit: MacRumors

Single sign-on allows users to authenticate with a TV provider once and have it recognized with every app hosting the same content. Those apps have to be updated with support as well, but a number will likely be ready by the time iOS 10.2 and tvOS 10.1 go live in December.

Until now, only Dish, Sling TV, Hotwire, and GVTC Communications have been listed as compatible providers. Others -- like Comcast, Spectrum, and PlayStation Vue -- will have to come onboard for the new technology to have meaningful reach.

Single sign-on was originally promised months ago, but was delayed for reasons unknown. When it does become widely available, though, Apple will also be premiering a new "TV" app, making it easier to find and browse shows. Siri will let people jump straight into live streams, as long as necessary apps are installed.