Best TV News Apps For Smart TVs
Hey everyone! So, you're looking to catch up on the latest happenings without being glued to your phone or computer, right? Watching the news on your big, beautiful TV is a fantastic way to stay informed, and luckily, there are tons of awesome apps to watch news on tv that make it super easy. We're talking about turning your living room into your personal news hub! Whether you're into breaking news, in-depth documentaries, or just want a quick glance at the headlines, there's an app out there for you. Let's dive into some of the best options available, guys, and get you set up to stream your favorite news channels and programs right on your television. No more squinting at small screens; it's time to go big or go home with your news consumption!
Top Picks for Streaming News on Your TV
When it comes to finding the best apps to watch news on tv, you've got a real smorgasbord of choices. We're not just talking about the standard news channels here; many of these apps offer exclusive content, on-demand viewing, and personalized news feeds. For starters, YouTube TV is a powerhouse. While it’s a full-fledged cable replacement, its strength lies in the sheer number of live news channels you can access, from CNN and Fox News to MSNBC and local affiliates. It’s a bit pricier, sure, but if you’re cutting the cord and want comprehensive live TV, this is a top contender. The interface is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through channels and find specific news programs. Plus, with cloud DVR, you can record shows and watch them later, which is a lifesaver when you miss a live broadcast. Hulu + Live TV is another heavy hitter in this space. Similar to YouTube TV, it offers a wide array of live news channels, alongside Hulu's massive on-demand library of TV shows and movies. This makes it a great all-in-one entertainment package. The ability to switch between live news and binge-watching your favorite series is pretty sweet, right? For those who are more budget-conscious, services like Sling TV offer customizable packages, allowing you to pick the news channels you actually want to watch, which can significantly reduce the cost. Sling offers a few different base packages, and you can add on extras, including news-focused channel packs. This flexibility is key for many people who don't want to pay for channels they'll never tune into. It’s a solid option for getting essential news channels without breaking the bank.
Free and Budget-Friendly News Apps
Now, let's talk about some options that won't empty your wallet, because who doesn't love free stuff, right? You don't always need a pricey subscription to get your news fix on TV. Many major news networks offer their own dedicated apps that provide a decent amount of content for free, often with ads. For example, Pluto TV has a variety of live news channels, including networks like Sky News and CBSN (now CBS News 24/7), all completely free. It’s ad-supported, so you’ll see commercials, but for a free service, the quality and variety are surprisingly good. It's a fantastic way to dip your toes into streaming news without any commitment. Another excellent free option is NewsON. This app aggregates live, local news channels from across the country. You can tune into newscasts from your hometown or explore what's happening in other cities, which can offer a different perspective. It's straightforward, no-nonsense news viewing. For those who are big fans of a particular network, checking out their dedicated app is often a good bet. For instance, ABC News Live, CBS News, and NBC News all have apps that stream live news and offer on-demand clips and segments. While they might push you towards their premium subscription services for full access, the free content is usually quite substantial for daily updates. Don't forget about The Roku Channel if you have a Roku device; it also offers a selection of live news streams from various sources, completely free. These free options are perfect for casual news viewers or anyone looking to supplement their existing news sources without additional costs. They prove that you can definitely stay informed without spending a dime on subscriptions for your TV news viewing.
Beyond Live Broadcasts: On-Demand and Specialized News
Sometimes, you don't want to be tied to a broadcast schedule. Maybe you missed a crucial segment, or you prefer to dive deep into specific topics. This is where on-demand and specialized news apps shine. The New York Times app, for example, offers not just articles but also video content and documentaries that you can watch at your leisure on your TV. It's a premium experience, but if you're a loyal reader, streaming their high-quality journalism on a bigger screen is fantastic. Similarly, The Wall Street Journal offers a robust video section with analysis and reports that are perfect for a more business-focused audience. For documentary lovers, CuriosityStream isn't strictly a news app, but it provides a wealth of informative content and documentaries that often cover current events and historical contexts in depth, which can be just as valuable for understanding the world. Plex is another platform worth mentioning. While known for organizing your personal media, it also offers a curated selection of free live TV channels and on-demand content, including news from various providers. You can often find dedicated news channels or news-related movies and documentaries. IMDb TV (now Amazon Freevee) also provides a mix of movies, shows, and sometimes news specials or documentaries that touch upon current affairs. These apps allow for a more curated and personalized news experience. You can choose exactly what you want to watch, when you want to watch it, and often explore topics with more depth than a live broadcast allows. It’s all about tailoring your news consumption to your interests and schedule, making staying informed a more engaging and flexible process.
How to Get These Apps on Your TV
Alright, guys, so you've heard about all these cool apps to watch news on tv, but how do you actually get them onto your television? It's usually pretty straightforward, especially if you have a smart TV. Most modern smart TVs (like those from Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, etc.) come with their own app stores. You just need to navigate to your TV's app store, search for the specific news app you want (e.g.,
