Sony brings free live TV to PS5 with more than 100 channels
PlayStation 5 owners in the United States can now watch more than 100 live channels on their console for free.
Sony has launched Live TV on PS5, a built-in hub for films and programmes supported by adverts. Viewers pay nothing for access and watch commercials instead. PlayStation published its official launch announcement on 31 August 2026. PlayStation Blog
The format is FAST, short for free ad-supported streaming television. It works like broadcast TV delivered over the internet, with scheduled channels rather than on-demand libraries.
The launch line-up draws on outside partners as well as Sony-owned content. It includes material from Amazon MGM Studios, Crunchyroll, FOX, NBCUniversal, NFL Channel, UFC and more, according to the launch announcement.
The service is backed by Sony Pictures Television. Keith Le Goy, chairman of Sony Pictures TV, discussed the launch in a panel conversation with Variety co-editor-in-chief Cynthia Littleton at the Variety Entertainment & Technology Summit presented by EY. Variety
Le Goy described the combination as “one plus one equaling a lot more than two.” He pointed to 40 to 50 million people who are highly engaged with gaming on PS5. GameSpot
Sony’s organisation spans film, TV, music and gaming under one roof. Le Goy said that structure lets the company bring its screen business directly to its games audience. The US release is first. Sony intends to roll out Live TV on PS5 to other countries in the coming months.
The approach is very different from Sony’s last attempt at television on PlayStation. PlayStation Vue, a paid live TV service, charged at least US$50 per month before it shut down in 2020.
What makes this stand out for players is the lack of friction. There is no extra box, no subscription and no download to manage. If the international rollout goes ahead, the PS5 programme guide could become a regular part of the console for millions more households.
