Sony just added free, ad-supported live TV to every PS5

Sony has introduced free, ad-supported live TV to every PS5 console, joining the growing trend of alternative streaming services. The new feature allows PlayStation 5 owners in the United States to access over 100 channels directly from the console's main menu, without the need for an additional app. Content includes a mix of ad-supported movies, TV shows, sports events, and news broadcasts.

Users can seamlessly navigate to the live TV section from the main menu and start watching content, such as news, sports, and shows like The Walking Dead and Hunter x Hunter, without interruption. Channels such as Fox, NBC, NASCAR, UFC, MovieSphere, FilmRise Free Movies, Crunchyroll, and more are currently available. Sony's decision to offer free, ad-supported live TV comes as premium streaming services continue to raise their prices, and comes at a time when subscription-based streaming models are facing criticism for causing prices to rise once again.

The move is also seen as an opportunity for Sony to further monetize its existing PS5 audience, particularly as hardware costs rise and new models like the PlayStation 6 become more expensive. Sony has not specified when the service will be expanded to other regions, but the company's CEO, Hideaki Nishino, has emphasized a focus on profitability over growth.