CBS News On Roku: Find Your Channel!

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CBS News on Roku: Find Your Channel!

Hey guys! Are you trying to figure out how to get your daily dose of CBS News on your Roku device? You're definitely not alone. With so many streaming options, navigating the channel landscape can feel like a maze. But don't worry, I'm here to guide you through it and make sure you can access CBS News live and on-demand on your Roku. Let's dive in!

Understanding Roku and Live TV

First off, let's get a handle on what Roku actually is. Essentially, Roku is a media streaming device that lets you watch video content on your TV through the internet. Think of it as a gateway to a world of channels and apps, bringing entertainment right to your living room. Now, when we talk about "Live TV" on Roku, we're generally referring to streaming services that offer live broadcasts of television channels, just like you'd get with a traditional cable or satellite subscription. These services stream the channels over the internet, so you can watch them live on your Roku device.

Live TV streaming services have become super popular because they offer a flexible and often more affordable alternative to traditional cable. Instead of being locked into a long-term contract with a cable company, you can subscribe to a streaming service on a month-to-month basis and cancel anytime. This gives you the freedom to customize your channel lineup and save money on channels you don't actually watch.

So, why is it sometimes confusing to find specific channels like CBS News on Roku? Well, the availability of channels can depend on a few factors, including your location, the specific streaming service you're using, and any contractual agreements between the streaming service and the channel owner (in this case, CBS). That's why it's important to understand your options and how to navigate the Roku channel store to find what you're looking for. Keep reading, and I'll walk you through the most common ways to access CBS News on your Roku!

Finding CBS News on Roku: Your Options

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of finding CBS News on your Roku. You've got a few main avenues to explore, each with its own pros and cons:

1. The CBS News App (Free)

The official CBS News app is your first and perhaps simplest option. CBS offers its own dedicated app on Roku that provides free access to live news coverage, including CBSN (CBS News Streaming Network), as well as on-demand news clips, full episodes, and special reports. This is a fantastic option because it's completely free – you don't need a cable subscription or any other paid service to watch.

To find the CBS News app, simply go to the Roku Channel Store (on your Roku device, go to your home screen and select "Streaming Channels"). Then, use the search function to look for "CBS News." Once you find it, click "Add Channel" to install it on your Roku. After it's installed, you'll find the CBS News app on your Roku home screen, ready to launch and start streaming.

Inside the CBS News app, you'll typically find a live stream of CBSN, which offers continuous news coverage throughout the day. You'll also find curated news clips, interviews, and segments from CBS News programs like "CBS Evening News," "CBS Mornings," and "60 Minutes." The app is usually well-maintained and provides a solid, reliable streaming experience.

2. Paramount+ (Subscription Required)

Paramount+, the streaming service from ViacomCBS (now Paramount Global), is another great way to watch CBS News on Roku. With a Paramount+ subscription, you not only get access to a vast library of on-demand movies and TV shows, including exclusive originals, but you also get a live stream of your local CBS station (in many markets). This means you can watch your local CBS news broadcasts live, as well as other CBS programming.

To access CBS News via Paramount+, you'll need to subscribe to the service. You can do this through the Paramount+ website or directly through the Roku Channel Store. Once you're subscribed, download the Paramount+ app to your Roku device and log in with your credentials. Then, you should find the option to watch your local CBS station live within the app. The exact location of the live stream may vary depending on the app's interface, but it's usually pretty easy to find.

Keep in mind that the availability of the live CBS station stream on Paramount+ depends on your location. Not all markets are supported, so it's a good idea to check the Paramount+ website or app to confirm that your local CBS station is available in your area before subscribing.

3. Live TV Streaming Services (Subscription Required)

Several live TV streaming services offer CBS and CBS News as part of their channel lineups. These services are designed to replace traditional cable subscriptions, providing a wide range of channels for a monthly fee. Some of the most popular live TV streaming services that carry CBS include:

  • YouTube TV: YouTube TV typically includes CBS, as well as other major broadcast networks like ABC, NBC, and Fox, along with a variety of cable channels. It also offers unlimited DVR storage, which is a huge plus.
  • Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV is another strong contender, offering CBS, along with a wide range of other channels, plus access to Hulu's extensive on-demand library. Keep an eye on the specific channels offered in your area, as it can vary.
  • fuboTV: FuboTV is a great option for sports fans, as it offers a wide range of sports channels, but it also includes CBS and other major networks in many markets.

To watch CBS News via one of these services, you'll need to subscribe to the service and download its app to your Roku device. Once you're subscribed and logged in, you can browse the channel guide to find CBS and start watching live. These services usually offer a free trial period, so you can test them out to see if they meet your needs before committing to a subscription.

4. CBS All Access (Now Paramount+)

CBS All Access was the previous name for Paramount+. If you're seeing references to CBS All Access, just know that it has been replaced by Paramount+. All the content and features that were previously available on CBS All Access are now available on Paramount+.

Troubleshooting: What If You Can't Find CBS News?

Sometimes, even with these options, you might run into trouble finding CBS News on your Roku. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Check Your Location: As mentioned earlier, the availability of live CBS streams can depend on your location. Make sure the streaming service you're using (like Paramount+ or a live TV streaming service) offers CBS in your area.
  • Update Your Apps: Make sure your Roku device and the CBS News app (or the app for your streaming service) are up to date. Outdated apps can sometimes have compatibility issues or missing features.
  • Restart Your Roku: A simple restart can often fix minor glitches. Go to Settings > System > Power > System Restart on your Roku device.
  • Check Your Subscription: Make sure your subscription to Paramount+ or your live TV streaming service is active and in good standing.
  • Contact Support: If you've tried everything else and you're still having trouble, don't hesitate to contact Roku support or the support team for your streaming service. They may be able to provide more specific guidance.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, folks! Getting CBS News on your Roku is totally doable, and you've got multiple options to choose from. Whether you prefer the free CBS News app, a Paramount+ subscription, or a live TV streaming service, you can stay informed and up-to-date on the latest news from CBS. Just remember to check your location, keep your apps updated, and don't be afraid to reach out for help if you need it. Happy streaming!