Sony Launches Free Live TV on PS5 With Over 100 Channels
Your PlayStation 5 can now do a little more than play games and run streaming apps. Sony has launched Live TV on PS5, a new free, ad-supported service that brings more than 100 live channels and a growing catalog of on-demand entertainment directly to the console.
The service launched in the United States on August 31 and is operated by Sony Pictures Television. Unlike most streaming services available on the console, Live TV on PS5 does not require a separate download or paid subscription. Instead, it is built into the Media section of the PS5 home screen.
Users can open the Media tab, select the Live TV on PS5 icon, and connect their PlayStation account to begin watching. A Sony Pictures CORE account is also required, though users can link an existing account.
Movie channels include MovieSphere by Lionsgate, 50 Cent Action, FilmRise Free Movies, Sony One Horror Hits, and Cinevault. TV programming includes shows such as Community, The Shield, Hell’s Kitchen, The Walking Dead, Forensic Files, Unsolved Mysteries, Fear Factor, Deal or No Deal USA, and Ice Road Truckers.
Anime also has a noticeable presence through Crunchyroll. Naruto, Sailor Moon, Hunter x Hunter, and Death Note are among the titles available, alongside dedicated Black Clover and Crunchyroll Box Sets channels.
Sports programming comes from sources including FOX Sports, NASCAR, NBC Sports Now, UFC, and others, covering football, hockey, MMA, motorsports, golf, boxing, and soccer. News and weather options include NBC News Now, Fox Weather, and LiveNOW from FOX.
Sony is also mixing in less traditional television programming. Hot Ones, Spotify's The Ringer, gaming and esports content, documentaries, podcasts, and creator-led channels are part of the initial selection.
Live TV on PS5 puts Sony directly into the free ad-supported streaming television, or FAST, market. Services such as Tubi, Pluto TV, and The Roku Channel have made this model familiar by offering free programming supported by commercial breaks.
The advertising opportunity is also a major part of the strategy. Sony Pictures Television said the offering brings together programming from major media brands alongside content from Sony's own entertainment portfolio. The company is effectively turning PS5 consoles into another distribution point for ad-supported entertainment.
Sony says they are looking to expand Live TV on PS5 to Canada and will explore bringing the service to other regions, though channel availability may vary by local market. The launch lineup will also continue to change, with refreshed programming, new channels, and additional content planned over time. For now, U.S. PS5 owners can access Live TV directly through the Media tab, sign in with their PlayStation account, and start watching without downloading a separate app or paying a monthly fee.
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