Local Now struck a deal to launch 18 new free ad-supported streaming channels from CBS.
The deal underscores the continued growth of free ad-supported platforms like Local Now, which have exploded in popularity with the continuous rise of subscription streaming services. With many consumers cutting the cord, having access to local channels through streaming platforms is more important than ever — especially in areas where antennas don’t work.
The new channels include 14 local stations, ranging from New York to Los Angeles, and four additional CBS national channels. Here are the local channels:
● Baltimore (WJZ-TV)
● Bay Area (KPIX-TV)
● Boston (WBZ-TV)
● Chicago (WBBM-TV)
● Colorado (KCNC-TV)
● Detroit (WWJ-TV)
● Los Angeles (KCAL9 TV)
● Miami (WFOR-TV)
● Minnesota (WCCO-TV)
● New York (WCBS-TV)
● Philadelphia (KYW-TV)
● Pittsburgh (KDKA-TV)
● Sacramento (KOVR-TV)
● Texas (KTVT-TV)
The national channels include CBS News Streaming, CBS Sports Golazo Network, which is dedicated to soccer, syndicated newsmagazine Inside Edition and Dabl, which features programming from lifestyle experts such as Martha Stewart and Emeril Legasse.
“Local Now is the leading free streaming service for local news, so this partnership with CBS – a trusted local news source for millions of Americans – was an undeniable match,” said Byron Allen, founder, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group. “And with the addition of CBS News and CBS Sports Golazo Network, we’re simultaneously able to expand our entertainment content offering for our audience. We’re excited for what’s ahead with our great partners at CBS.”
The deal also underscores how platforms like Local Now can offer media companies even more reach.
“Bringing our FAST channels to Local Now represents the next step in accelerating the growth of our streaming business,” said Wendy McMahon, president and CEO of CBS News and Stations and CBS Media Ventures. “We’re seeing significant increases in the total minutes streamed on our platforms this year. Partnering with the Allen Media Group will help us expand our reach even further, and not just in local news, but also with our flagship CBS News national streaming channel, CBS Sports Golazo Network, Inside Edition and Dabl.”
Local Now said viewers can find these channels in the CBS Stations portolfio.