AT&T, DirecTV Assure FCC They Will Promote Online Video Distribution

AT&T has clearly gotten the message that access to over-the-top video competition is a key issue for the Federal Communications Commission in its review of the proposed merger with DirecTV. In a meeting with FCC officials about the deal, most of a dozen executives from both companies told the FCC that they had "strong incentives" to support online video services, both as stand-alone and bundled. They also shared some confidential info on various peering, managed service and online video distributor (OVD) distribution deals it has done, and said it is pursuing others that will "ensure consumers will be able to enjoy seamless and high-quality OVD services." The FCC has yet to restart its unofficial shot clock on the deal, likely as the FCC review team tries to ensure that will be the case if the deal is approved.