Sony Pictures Television has introduced ‘Live TV on PS5,’ a new free ad-supported streaming service now available in the U.S. as of August 31, 2026. This launch signifies a strategic shift for Sony in the streaming landscape, arriving seven years after the company discontinued its paid PlayStation Vue live TV service in 2019.
The new platform integrates directly into the PS5’s Media tab, allowing users immediate access to content without the need for separate application downloads. ‘Live TV on PS5’ offers a library of over 100 live and on-demand channels, featuring a diverse range of content from a broad spectrum of partners.
Content collaborators include Sony Pictures Entertainment, Crunchyroll, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal, NFL Channel, Amazon MGM Studios, FOX, UFC, ESPN, A+E Global Media, AMC Global Media, Fubo Sports Network, and Spotify’s The Ringer. This extensive lineup provides programming across genres, from movies like MovieSphere by Lionsgate and Sony One Horror Hits, to TV series such as Community and The Walking Dead, and popular anime titles including Naruto and Black Clover from Crunchyroll. Sports enthusiasts can find content from FOX Sports, UFC, and the NFL Channel, while news is delivered by outlets like NBC News Now.
The service operates on a free ad-supported streaming (FAST) model, with Publica and PubMatic serving as key ad technology partners. Sony’s strategy aims to attract targeted advertisers, including Fortune and Nielsen brands, by offering a dedicated environment to reach PlayStation 5 users. This approach is designed to ensure ad relevance and capture advertising revenue that might otherwise be directed to other connected TV platforms. The initiative aligns with Sony’s broader objective to generate revenue from non-gaming activities, thereby enhancing user engagement within the PlayStation ecosystem.
‘Live TV on PS5’ enters a competitive market, positioning Sony in direct competition with established FAST platforms such as Tubi, Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Sling Freestream. The service is also slated for future expansion later in 2026, with plans to roll out in Canada and integrate with BRAVIA televisions. This undertaking represents a collaborative effort among Sony Pictures Entertainment, Sony Interactive Entertainment, and Sony Electronics, leveraging the diverse strengths of the Sony Group.