Yes, you can watch local channels on your Apple TV device but you’ll need another device or service to get them. The Apple TV device itself doesn’t give you any local channel content. The easist way to get local channels is by directly hooking up an HD Antenna to your TV, but this in essence is going around the Apple TV. We listed it as an option in this article but be aware that the Apple TV itself doesn’t have a connection / port that can accept an HD Antenna.
Remember, the Apple TV box itself does not have a connection point for an antenna so any advice you see referring to an HD Antenna (or otherwise) is essentially going AROUND the Apple TV and directly to your display.
How To Get Local Channels On Apple TV
Live TV Streaming Services
Services like YouTube TV, Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, and others typically include local channels in their packages. These are more expensive than a simple antenna but offer a cable-like experience with cloud DVR and additional channels.
- Hulu + Live TV: Offers a comprehensive package that includes local channels along with a broad range of other content.
- Sling TV: Known for its customizable packages, Sling TV also offers local channel options.
- FuboTV: A great choice for sports fans, FuboTV also includes a variety of local channels.
- YouTube TV: Provides extensive access to local channels along with a user-friendly interface.
- DIRECTV: Known for its wide range of content, DIRECTV also offers local channels.
- Paramount Plus: In addition to its unique content, it also provides local channel options.
Here’s some pricing on some of the more popular of these services:
| Service | Starting Price | Local Channels? |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | $64.99/month | Yes |
| Hulu + Live TV | $69.99/month | Yes |
| Sling TV | $40/month (Sling Blue) | Varies by location |
Individual Streaming Services
Some local broadcast networks offer their live streams through their own apps or on their websites. Availability and whether they’re free can vary widely depending on the channel and your location.
Important Considerations:
- Location matters: Local channel coverage differs depending on streaming services and your specific address.
- Internet speed: A good internet connection is vital, especially for live TV streaming services.
- Flexibility: If your local channel needs change frequently, streaming services offer flexibility over an antenna.
Local News Apps on Apple TV
In addition to streaming services and antennas, there are also specific local news apps available on Apple TV. These apps can be especially useful for staying up-to-date with local news and events. Depending on your location, you may find dedicated apps for your local news channels or broader apps that aggregate local news from various sources.
Other Ways to Get Local Channels
While Apple TV offers convenient options for accessing some content, it’s important to understand the broader picture of getting local channels on your setup. Here are some alternative methods to get your news and local favorites:
HD Antennas -> Directly To TV / DVR / Receiver
For a one-time purchase and no monthly fees, an HD antenna delivers free, over-the-air channels directly to your TV. Reception depends on your location and the antenna you choose, but it’s a highly cost-effective option.
FAQs
Can you watch regular TV on Apple TV?
Yes, you can watch regular TV on Apple TV. There are several ways to do this, including using live TV streaming services, an antenna and HDHomeRun, or the TV Everywhere apps of your cable or satellite provider.
How do I watch live channels on Apple TV?
To watch live channels on Apple TV, you can subscribe to a live TV streaming service like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, use an over-the-air antenna with a device like HDHomeRun, or access the TV Everywhere apps provided by your cable or satellite company.
How do I play local content on Apple TV?
To play local content on Apple TV, you can either use AirPlay to stream content from your other Apple devices or use a media server app like Plex to access content stored on a computer or NAS drive connected to your home network.
Is there an app to watch local TV?
Yes, there are several apps to watch local TV on Apple TV. Live TV streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offer local channels in many areas. Additionally, you can use the HDHomeRun app to watch over-the-air channels with an antenna.
Is there a way to stream local channels for free?
Yes, you can stream local channels for free using an over-the-air antenna and a device like HDHomeRun. This allows you to access local broadcast channels without a cable or streaming subscription.
How can I get local TV on my smart TV?
If you have a smart TV, you can get local TV by using the built-in apps of live TV streaming services or by connecting an over-the-air antenna directly to your TV. Some smart TVs even have built-in support for HDHomeRun, allowing you to watch over-the-air channels without any additional devices.
