The company had already allowed consumers to capture and record live TV by way of a digital antenna and tuner connected to a Plex media server, but this had required investment in additional hardware and involved a more complicated setup process. “Today Plex is bringing it all back (except for the fax machine, still working on that integration) with free Live TV for everyone, in all 220+ countries that Plex serves. With over 80+ channels (plus even more coming soon) across all your favorite genres. And this is in addition to the 14,000 (and counting) free movies, documentaries, and TV shows you can find on Plex on-demand, so there’s always something on to fit your mood. Whether it’s live news like Reuters or kids shows like Toon Goggles, cooking shows on Tastemade, or sports on fubo Sports Network, or even eSports on IGN TV, we’ve got you covered,” Plex said in its announcement blog post. Live TV on Plex also offers comedy, game shows, anime, film, news, classic TV, podcasts, personal media, pre-programmed Live TV, entertainment, and more. Plex users can connect their antenna for live local TV, notes the streaming platform. “Two of the most important factors for an enjoyable streaming experience are easily being able to find something of interest to watch and being able to watch it from any device you choose. Plex offers consumers across the globe a simple yet powerful platform for access to all types of content that can be streamed from all types of devices,” said Keith Valory, CEO of Plex commenting on the launch. The new Live TV option is different from its already-available “over-the-air” TV and DVR feature, which takes advantage of a digital antenna and tuner. It does not require any hardware or setup to access over 80 channels of free programming. Plex over-the-air TV offers free access to local channels and major networks like NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox, the CW, and PBS for those that do set up an antenna and tuner. “Combining the new Live TV service with the over-the-air TV and DVR feature, Plex offers the most comprehensive and least expensive streaming TV service in the world,” said Valory.
