Does AT&T’s new DirecTV Now service violate net neutrality?

AT&T unveiled its plan to entice cord-cutters with its video DirecTV Now streaming package. The new service offers traditional television channels through various bundles, but also lets viewers watch streaming services like Netflix and Hulu over an Internet connection – all without a cable box or other equipment. The 100 channel package is available for a $35 per month promotional price.

The company’s announcement comes a few weeks after the FCC sent a letter to AT&T raising “serious concerns” that DirecTV Now, in combination with AT&T Mobility’s “Data Free TV” plan – which allows AT&T customers to stream DirecTV video without counting it against data caps – might “obstruct competition and harm consumers.”

AT&T responded to the letter, writing that it “faithfully adhered” to net neutrality rules in its zero-rating plans, allowing all content providers to participate on the same rates, terms and conditions and that DirecTV Now fosters competition to the dominant cable companies.

AT&T moved forward with its DirecTV Now service and its zero-rating plan, a move seen by some as a challenge to the FCC. How do you think the Commission will respond? Is AT&T violating net neutrality?

Links:

AT&T just unveiled its answer to the cord-cutting wars (Washington Post, Nov. 28, 2016)

Letter from FCC’s Jon Wilkins to AT&T’s Bob Quinn on AT&T’s Sponsored Data Program (FCC, Nov. 9, 2016)

Reply letter from AT&T’s Bob Quinn to FCC’s Jon Wilkins on AT&T’s Sponsored Data Program (AT&T, Nov. 21, 2016)

AT&T White Paper on Sponsored Data Program (Nov. 21, 2016)

How AT&T Is Challenging Net Neutrality With Its New Internet TV Service (Fortune.com, Nov. 29, 2016)