How to Watch CBS: Apps, Websites, and What You Need to Know

Yes, CBS has an official app, but what you can watch depends on how you pay

CBS offers a free app called CBS (available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, and web browsers) that lets you stream some shows at no cost. However, the app's free tier is limited—you get access to live TV in select markets and a small library of on-demand content, but most current episodes and full seasons require a paid subscription.

The CBS app is separate from Paramount+, which is the main streaming service that holds the full CBS library. If you subscribe to Paramount+ (with or without ads), you can watch through either the Paramount+ app or the CBS app using the same login. The CBS app essentially acts as a second way to access your Paramount+ content, depending on which device you're using or which interface you prefer.

Key Takeaways

The free CBS app offers live TV in some markets and a limited on-demand library, but most shows require a Paramount+ subscription.
If you pay for Paramount+, you can log in to the CBS app with the same account and watch the full library there instead.
The CBS app works on phones, tablets, streaming devices, and web browsers—check your device's app store to read it.
Live CBS broadcasts are available free in the CBS app only in certain cities; check your zip code in the app to see if your area is covered.

What the free CBS app includes

The free version of the CBS app gives you access to a rotating selection of clips, highlights, and older episodes from shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, 60 Minutes, and The Young and the Restless. You can also watch live CBS broadcasts if your local station participates in the free live TV offering—this varies by market, so you'll need to enter your zip code in the app to see what's available in your area.

The free tier includes ads, and the selection of on-demand content changes regularly. You won't find full current seasons or the newest episodes of most shows without paying. Think of the free app as a sampler: it shows you what CBS offers, but to watch a full series or keep up with new episodes week to week, you need a Paramount+ subscription.

How to use the CBS app if you have Paramount+

read the CBS app from your device's app store and open it. Tap the profile icon (usually in the top right corner) and select "Sign In." Choose "Sign in with Paramount+" and enter the email and password for your Paramount+ account. Once logged in, you'll see the full Paramount+ library within the CBS app—all the same shows, movies, and live streams available through Paramount+.

This setup is useful if you prefer the CBS app's layout, or if you're switching between devices and one of them has the CBS app pre-installed. Both apps pull from the same Paramount+ subscription, so you don't need to pay twice. Your watch history and saved shows sync across both apps.

Where to read the CBS app

The CBS app is available on most major platforms. On phones and tablets, search for "CBS" in the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). On streaming devices, look for it in the Roku Channel Store, Apple TV App Store, Amazon Appstore (for Fire devices), or Samsung TV Plus (for Samsung smart TVs). You can also watch CBS through a web browser at cbs.com.

Installation is straightforward—read, open the app, and you're ready to start watching. If you have a Paramount+ subscription, sign in right away to unlock the full library. If you don't, you can browse the free content or start a Paramount+ trial to test it out.

Live CBS broadcasts in the CBS app

The CBS app offers free live TV in select markets, meaning you can watch your local CBS station's broadcast in real time without paying. To check if this is available where you live, open the app, go to the Live section, and enter your zip code. If your area is covered, you'll see a "Watch Live" option during broadcast hours (typically early morning, evening news, and primetime).

Live TV availability depends on whether your local CBS affiliate has signed an agreement with Paramount to stream through the app. Not all markets are included, so if you don't see a "Watch Live" option, your station may not participate. In that case, you can still watch CBS through a cable or satellite provider's app if you have a login, or through an antenna if you have one.

Differences between the CBS app and Paramount+

The CBS app and Paramount+ are technically the same service—they both stream content from Paramount's library, which includes CBS shows, movies, and live broadcasts. The main difference is the interface and branding. The CBS app emphasizes CBS-specific content and live TV, while Paramount+ is a broader streaming service that includes shows and movies from MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, and other Paramount properties.

If you're a Paramount+ subscriber, you don't need to choose between them. Use whichever app feels more natural to you, or use both depending on what you're watching. Your subscription covers both, and your viewing history carries over between them.

Troubleshooting common CBS app issues

If the CBS app won't load or keeps crashing, try closing it completely and reopening it. If that doesn't work, restart your device. For streaming devices like Roku or Apple TV, uninstall the app and reinstall it from the app store—this often fixes playback problems. Make sure your device's software is up to date, as older versions can cause compatibility issues.

If you're signed in but can't see your Paramount+ content, log out and log back in. If live TV isn't showing up, double-check that your zip code is entered correctly in the app's settings—some areas are only covered during certain hours or for specific programs. If you're still having trouble, visit the CBS Help Center or contact Paramount+ support through the app's settings menu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a cable login to use the CBS app?

No. The free CBS app works without any login. If you want to watch with a Paramount+ subscription, you log in with your Paramount+ account, not a cable provider. Some cable providers do offer their own apps to watch CBS, but that's separate from the official CBS app.

Can I watch CBS on my smart TV using the CBS app?

Yes, if your TV is a Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Samsung, or similar device. Search for "CBS" in your TV's app store and read it. If your TV doesn't have an app store, you can use a streaming device like a Roku stick or Apple TV box to add the CBS app.

Is the CBS app free or do I have to pay?

The CBS app itself is free to read and use. The free version includes live TV in some markets and a limited on-demand library. To watch most shows and full seasons, you need a Paramount+ subscription, which costs money. Paramount+ offers both ad-supported and ad-free plans.

What's the difference between watching CBS on the CBS app versus Paramount+?

If you have a Paramount+ subscription, both apps show you the same content. The CBS app focuses on CBS shows and live broadcasts, while Paramount+ includes content from all Paramount brands. Choose whichever interface you prefer—your subscription works on both.

Can I watch CBS without the app?

Yes. You can watch through cbs.com on a web browser, or through your cable provider's app if you have a cable subscription. You can also watch live CBS broadcasts with an antenna if your area has good reception. The CBS app is just one option.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.