by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 5:10 PM ET, Thu April 12, 2018
United Airlines is improving its in-flight entertainment.
The airline announced today it has expanded the personal device entertainment options on all aircraft with DIRECTTV live streaming for purchase to now provide at least one free entertainment choice on all Wi-Fi equipped aircraft.
Between February and April, United installed personal device entertainment on more than 200 aircraft that previously offered DIRECTTV.
Passengers can now use a personal laptop, Apple iOS or Android device to access a library of complimentary movies and television shows, in addition to purchasing DIRECTV to view live programming, the airline said in a statement.
"Whether it is seatback on-demand, DIRECTV or personal device entertainment, we offer customers hundreds of hours of programming to enjoy during their travels," Mark Krolick, vice president of marketing at United Airlines, said in a statement. "We're excited to expand our personal device entertainment offering, which has been a popular option amongst many of our customers who tend to bring their own devices when they travel."
In addition, to assist with watching entertainment on your personal device, the airline said on select flights during the busy summer travel season, it will begin distributing free phone stands that prop up devices and allow for hands-free viewing.
The airline is also continuing its effort of installing in-seat power outlets to help customers keep devices charging while flying.
United said it is also working on improving entertainment options for travelers with disabilities. That effort began earlier this year with a new main menu category on its seatback on-demand offering that is labeled "Accessible Entertainment."
The new section is designed to make it easier for customers with hearing or vision challenges to find accessible entertainment options, grouping all titles that are either audio descriptive or closed-captioned in one menu category.
Seatback on-demand is available on 757, 767, 777 and 787 aircraft.
The carrier currently offers approximately 20 different movies and TV shows that are audio descriptive and more than 50 that include English closed captioning. Select DIRECTV channels also include closed captioning when the TV station makes it available.
United Airlines is also rumored to be adding a new premium economy section to some flights, which will feature extended leg room, larger and more spacious seats, upgraded dining with nice cutlery, premium beverages, and higher-quality cuisine.
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