This post was written in partnership with DIRECTV.
In the spring of 2023, DIRECTV launched its new Gemini hardware and our DIRECTV Gemini device review will give you all the details. Although it is an upgraded version of the Osprey box, Gemini creates a seamless viewing experience, making it easy for DIRECTV customers to switch from its live satellite programming to streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Max. (Note that this requires a separate paid subscription to third-party apps. A high-speed internet-connected Gemini device and Google login are required.)
Gemini comes with a new, sleek, voice-activated remote that not only controls your entertainment viewing but can also manage your compatible smart home devices. From its design to its features and user experience, Gemini makes it easier for DIRECTV customers to watch their favorite shows, movies, and sports events.
DIRECTV Gemini Device Review: Design and Features
Design
DIRECTV’s Gemini is a small, sleek black box measuring about 6.5” x 6.5” and is less than 1” tall. There are no buttons or an access card slot on the front of the box. On the side, there’s only a reset button. The back of the box includes connections for wired Ethernet, optical audio, HDMI, micro USB, and power. For customers who have DIRECTV’s satellite service, it can serve as a Genie client in addition to being used for internet streaming.
Features
Gemini contains all the features customers are looking for in their viewing experience. This includes an integrated search feature, cloud DVR, voice control, and the ability to download many streaming and advertiser-based video-on-demand apps. (Note that this requires a separate paid subscription to third-party apps. A high-speed internet-connected Gemini device and Google login are required.)
How to use the DIRECTV Gemini
In addition to the Gemini box, you’ll receive a voice-activated remote, HDMI cable, and a power cord. If you need other cords, such as an Ethernet or micro USB cord, you will need to supply that yourself.
You can set up your Gemini with either a wired or Wi-Fi connection. To use a wired connection, you’ll need to separately purchase an Ethernet coax adapter. To power this device, you’ll need to either connect it to Gemini with a micro USB cable or to a separately purchased AC adapter, which you then connect to a wall outlet. Following that step, connect the coax cable from the wall to the coax adapter, then connect the adapter to Gemini with an Ethernet cable. Plug one end of the HDMI cable into Gemini and the other end into either your TV or, if you have one, your home theater receiver. Finally, plug the Gemini’s power cable into a wall outlet.
If you’re using a Wi-Fi connection, you simply connect the Gemini to your TV or home theater receiver with the HDMI cable and the power source into the outlet.
These methods work if you’re only streaming DIRECTV. However, if you’re using DIRECTV’s satellite service, you’ll need to connect Gemini to your Genie device. There are two ways to do this. The first is a direct connection with an Ethernet cable. However, if your Ethernet port is already being used, you can purchase a wireless video bridge and connect your Gemini to your Genie wirelessly.
Once your Gemini is physically connected to your TV, you’ll need to use the remote to complete the installation. This begins by pairing the remote to the TV, then accepting the terms and conditions. You pair your remote by pointing it at your TV and pressing the FAST FORWARD and REWIND buttons at the same time until you see a confirmation message on your TV screen.
To use Gemini, you’ll need to have a Google account and enter your Google ID and password during the set-up stage.
To operate Gemini, you must use the Gemini remote. The Genie remote will not work. You can either navigate the system with the remote’s buttons or use its voice-activated capabilities.
The Gemini remote comes with Google Assistant, so you can ask it to change channels and search for specific types of shows. You can also ask it for personalized recommendations on what shows to watch. Additionally, you can use the remote to find out recent sports scores and stock prices, and what the weather will be. And, since the remote uses Google Assistant, you can use it to control your compatible smart home devices that are also connected to Google Assistant (Google, Google Play, and Android TV are trademarks of Google LLC.)
Your Gemini device is your source for all your streaming apps and can replace your Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV. It comes preloaded with Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Max. If you want streaming services that are not preloaded, you can download them from the Google Play Store. This gives you the opportunity to personalize your viewing experience.
Your Gemini comes with parental controls. If you enable this feature, you can set up a PIN code that must be entered to make changes to your system or turn controls off. You can also limit content based on their TV or movie rating, requiring the PIN to be input to access entertainment above a specified rating level.
DIRECTV Gemini user experience
The Gemini user experience will be familiar to satellite customers and to people who use other streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV.
When using the satellite service, the program guide is easier to navigate and uses the arrow keys instead of the fast forward and rewind buttons. It has a different look with a new font. And the INFO button has been replaced with a […] button.
To use Gemini as a streaming device, you simply hit the APPS button to be taken to your home page of available streaming services. This has a similar look to the other streaming devices, so you’ll be able to easily navigate the system.
FAQ
What happened to the DIRECTV Osprey?
If you already have a DIRECTV Osprey box, you can continue using it. The Gemini box is an upgraded and rebranded version of the Osprey.
Do I need an internet connection to use the Gemini?
Yes. In order to use apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Max, you need to have an internet connection.
Can I use the Gemini to watch Netflix?
Yes. Gemini comes preloaded with Netflix as one of the available streaming apps.