Is there an ABC channel on a smart TV?
There is no single "channel number" for ABC on any smart TV, and the dedicated ABC app for connected TVs was discontinued in September 2024. This means you cannot simply tune to a channel or download the old ABC app to start watching; instead, you must use alternative methods like a web browser, a live TV streaming service, or the separate ABC News app to access ABC content on your smart TV.
How to watch ABC shows on your smart TV now
The primary way to watch full episodes of ABC shows on a smart TV is through the TV's built-in web browser. Turn on your smart TV, open the internet browser app (usually found on the home screen or in the apps list), and navigate to ABC.com. Once there, you can browse the library of current and past episodes. For the most recently aired content and live streams, you will need to sign in with a participating TV provider account, such as a cable, satellite, or live TV streaming subscription. After signing in, you can select any show and stream it directly on your TV screen without needing any additional hardware or apps.
This method works on virtually all smart TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, TCL, and Philips, as long as the TV has a web browser. If your TV does not have a browser, you can use a connected streaming device like Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV, and access ABC.com through the browser on those devices instead.
Watch ABC with a live TV streaming service
If you want a more traditional TV-like experience with a live ABC feed, subscribing to a live TV streaming service is the most reliable app-based alternative. Services such as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV all include ABC in their channel lineups, and each offers a dedicated app that you can download from your smart TV's app store. After installing the app, sign in with your subscription credentials, and you will be able to watch ABC live as it airs, including local news, sports, and prime-time shows. These services also provide cloud DVR storage, so you can record ABC programs and watch them later. Check the specific service's availability in your area, as ABC is a local affiliate and may not be offered in every region.
To get started, open your TV's app store, search for the streaming service name, install it, and follow the on-screen setup. You will need to create an account and choose a plan, but most services offer free trials so you can test the ABC channel before committing. This option is ideal for viewers who want a complete cable replacement experience without needing an antenna or a traditional cable box.
How to watch ABC News on a smart TV
For 24/7 live news coverage, the ABC News app is a separate, free application that is still available on supported devices like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, and iOS. Unlike the discontinued main ABC app, the ABC News app was not removed and continues to function normally. Once installed, open it, and you will have immediate access to live news streams, breaking news alerts, and on-demand news segments from ABC News. No TV provider sign-in is required; the app is completely free to use, supported by ads. This is the best option if your primary interest is news rather than full-length entertainment shows.
Note that the ABC News app does not include ABC's entertainment programming like dramas or reality shows; it is strictly for news content. If you want both news and shows, you will need to combine this app with one of the other methods described above, such as ABC.com or a live TV streaming service.
Can I cast ABC to my smart TV?
Yes, you can cast ABC content from your phone or computer to your smart TV using Chromecast or Apple AirPlay. To do this, make sure your smart TV and your phone or computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Then, open the ABC app on your phone or ABC.com in your browser, start playing the show, and tap the cast or AirPlay icon. Select your TV from the list of available devices, and the content will appear on your TV screen while your phone acts as a remote control.
This method is especially useful if you prefer using the ABC mobile app (which may still be available on your phone even though the TV app was discontinued) or if you find the TV browser interface cumbersome. Casting works on most modern smart TVs, including models from Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, and TCL, as long as they support Chromecast or AirPlay, if you're unsure about your Vizio model, you can know if my Vizio TV is a smart TV to confirm it has these capabilities. For older TVs without built-in support, you can use a Chromecast dongle or an Apple TV box connected to an HDMI port.
A note for Australian viewers: ABC iview
If you are in Australia, the situation is different. The ABC app for connected TVs in the United States was discontinued, but Australian viewers can still use the ABC iview app on compatible Samsung, LG, Hisense, and other smart TVs. ABC iview is a free streaming service that offers live ABC channels, catch-up TV, and exclusive Australian content. To access it, go to your TV's app store, search for "ABC iview," and install it. The app is free to use and does not require a TV provider sign-in, though you may need to create a free ABC account. Once installed, you can watch live ABC1, ABC2, ABC3, ABC Kids, and ABC News, as well as a large library of on-demand shows. This app is not related to the discontinued US ABC app, so Australian users should not be affected by the changes.
If you cannot find ABC iview in your TV's app store, check if your TV model is listed as compatible on the ABC iview website, or use a streaming device like Roku or Fire TV Stick that supports the app. Alternatively, you can cast ABC iview from your phone to your TV using Chromecast or AirPlay, just as you would with US ABC content.
For viewers in other countries, ABC content may be available through local broadcasters or streaming services, but the methods described above are specifically for accessing the US-based ABC network on a smart TV.
For the wider topic, see Tizen smart TV.
