News On Amazon Prime: Channels & How To Watch
Hey guys! Ever wondered what news channels you can catch on Amazon Prime Video? You're in the right place! Amazon Prime Video isn't just about movies and TV shows; it's also a fantastic hub for news. Let's dive into the world of news channels available on Amazon Prime and how you can access them. Whether you're a news junkie or just want to stay informed, this guide will help you navigate the news options on Amazon Prime Video.
What News Channels are Available on Amazon Prime?
When it comes to news channels on Amazon Prime Video, you've got a pretty solid selection, but it's not quite the same as a traditional cable package. Instead of a comprehensive lineup of every single news channel out there, Amazon Prime Video offers news through a couple of different avenues. Firstly, there are news add-on subscriptions, and secondly, there are news apps that you can download and watch if you already have a subscription to those services. Let's break it down:
1. News Add-on Subscriptions
Amazon Prime Video Channels is where you'll find a lot of the news action. Think of these as premium add-ons to your Prime membership. You pay a little extra each month, but you get access to some seriously great news content. Here are a few examples:
- CBS News Streaming Channel: This is a 24/7 news channel that offers live coverage, breaking news, and in-depth reports. It’s a solid option for staying up-to-date on current events.
- Paramount+: While not solely a news channel, Paramount+ includes CBSN, CBS News's 24/7 streaming service. You get your news fix plus a ton of other entertainment content.
- STARZ: This is another channel that includes news programs. Though primarily known for its movies and original series, it also carries some news content that's worth checking out.
- Showtime: Similar to STARZ and Paramount+, Showtime offers a mix of entertainment and news programming, making it a well-rounded option for subscribers.
2. News Apps via Subscription
Another way to get your news fix on Amazon Prime Video is through standalone apps. If you already subscribe to a news service like CNN, FOX News, or MSNBC, you can often download their app on your Fire TV device and log in with your credentials. This gives you access to live streams and on-demand content, just like you'd get on your phone or computer. This is awesome because you're not paying extra through Amazon; you're just utilizing a service you already have.
3. Free News Options
Don’t want to shell out extra cash? No problem! Amazon Prime Video also has some free news options. Several apps offer free news content, although they might include ads or have limited access compared to paid subscriptions. Some examples include:
- NewsON: This app provides local news broadcasts from various stations across the US. It’s perfect for staying informed about what's happening in your community.
- Haystack News: Haystack News is a personalized news aggregator that curates videos from various sources based on your interests. It's a great way to get a broad overview of the day’s top stories.
How to Access News Channels on Amazon Prime Video
Okay, so now you know what channels are available, but how do you actually watch them? Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Via Prime Video Channels
- Go to Amazon Prime Video: Fire up your web browser or open the Prime Video app on your device.
- Navigate to Channels: Look for the “Channels” section in the Prime Video menu. It’s usually listed alongside categories like Movies, TV Shows, and Kids.
- Browse News Channels: Once you’re in the Channels section, you can browse through the available options. You might need to scroll down or use the search function to find specific news channels.
- Start a Free Trial or Subscribe: If you see a channel you like, click on it. You’ll usually be offered a free trial period, which is a fantastic way to test the waters. If you’re ready to commit, you can subscribe directly through Amazon.
- Start Watching: Once you’re subscribed, the channel’s content will be available in your Prime Video library. Just click and start watching!
2. Through News Apps
- Find the App: On your Fire TV device, go to the app store and search for the news app you want (e.g., CNN, FOX News).
- Download and Install: Click the download button and wait for the app to install.
- Open the App: Launch the app from your home screen.
- Log In: You’ll be prompted to log in with your existing subscription credentials. This is the same username and password you use to access the service on its website or other devices.
- Start Watching: Once you’re logged in, you’ll have access to live streams and on-demand news content.
3. Using Free News Apps
- Find and Download: Head to the app store on your device and search for free news apps like NewsON or Haystack News.
- Install the App: Click download and wait for the installation to complete.
- Open the App: Launch the app from your home screen.
- Start Watching: Most free news apps will let you start watching immediately. Some might ask you to create an account, but it’s usually free.
Tips for Maximizing Your News Consumption on Amazon Prime
Okay, you've got the basics down. Now let's talk about how to make the most of your news-watching experience on Amazon Prime Video.
1. Take Advantage of Free Trials
Seriously, free trials are your best friend. Most of the premium news channels offer a trial period, usually around 7 days. This is an awesome way to try out a channel before you commit to a monthly subscription. You can binge-watch, explore different shows, and see if it’s really worth the money for you.
2. Bundle Subscriptions
Some services, like Paramount+ or Showtime, offer news content alongside their entertainment offerings. If you’re already interested in their shows and movies, adding them to get news access can be a cost-effective move. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone!
3. Customize Your News Feed
Apps like Haystack News let you personalize your news feed. This means you can tell the app what topics you’re interested in, and it will curate a selection of videos just for you. It’s a fantastic way to stay informed about the stuff you care about without getting overwhelmed by everything else.
4. Use Multiple Sources
This is a big one, guys. It's super important to get your news from a variety of sources. Relying on just one channel can give you a biased view of the world. By watching news from different perspectives, you can form your own opinions and get a more balanced understanding of events.
5. Set Up Notifications
Many news apps allow you to set up notifications for breaking news. This way, you’ll be in the loop as soon as something important happens. Just be careful not to get notification overload! Maybe pick a couple of key apps and limit the notifications to high-priority alerts.
6. Watch on Different Devices
The beauty of Amazon Prime Video and most news apps is that you can watch on pretty much any device. Whether you're chilling on your couch with your Fire TV, commuting on the train with your phone, or working at your computer, you can stay connected to the news. Take advantage of this flexibility to fit news consumption into your daily routine.
Comparing News Options: Channels vs. Apps
Alright, let’s break down the pros and cons of using Amazon Prime Video Channels versus standalone news apps.
Amazon Prime Video Channels
Pros:
- Convenience: Everything is in one place, within the Amazon Prime Video interface.
- Easy Billing: Subscriptions are managed through your Amazon account, making billing straightforward.
- Free Trials: You can try before you buy with free trial periods.
Cons:
- Limited Selection: The range of news channels is not as extensive as you might find elsewhere.
- Extra Cost: You're paying on top of your Prime membership fee.
News Apps
Pros:
- Wider Selection: You have access to a broader range of news sources, including major networks like CNN, FOX News, and MSNBC.
- No Extra Cost (Potentially): If you already subscribe to a news service, you’re not paying anything extra to use their app on Amazon Fire TV.
Cons:
- Requires Existing Subscriptions: You need to be a subscriber to the news service to use its app.
- Multiple Apps: You might end up juggling multiple apps to get all the news you want.
Conclusion: Staying Informed with Amazon Prime Video
So, there you have it, guys! Amazon Prime Video offers a variety of ways to stay informed, whether you prefer add-on subscriptions, standalone apps, or free news options. By understanding the available channels and how to access them, you can create a news-watching experience that fits your needs and budget.
Remember, it’s super important to consume news from diverse sources and stay critical of the information you’re getting. Happy watching, and stay informed!
