DIRECTV may try offset some programming fees by developing a set-top box that uses an antenna to receive over-the-air broadcast signals, Patrick Doyle, the company’s chief financial officer, said at a conference in Boston. According to DIRECTV spokesman Darris Gringeri, the satcaster has no specific plans to test such an integrated box, but is “just exploring any options that could help get programming costs under control.” The move would be aimed at curbing the amount of money DIRECTV pays broadcast stations for the right to retransmit their signal.
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