STIRR, the free, ad-supported streaming service has added live local news from Sinclair-owned affiliates of ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC along with other networks to its platform. This expansion marks a significant evolution for STIRR, which has been steadily rebuilding its offerings since being sold by Sinclair Broadcast Group to new ownership last year. The move brings a fresh wave of accessible, no-cost news content to viewers across the United States, tapping into Sinclair’s extensive network of local stations to deliver real-time updates straight to streaming devices.
STIRR’s latest update means users can now tune into live broadcasts from Sinclair-owned stations in dozens of markets, covering major networks like ABC, CBS, and FOX. Sinclair, one of the largest television station owners in the U.S., operates over 190 stations nationwide, many of which are affiliates of these big-name broadcasters. The addition of these channels to STIRR’s lineup enhances its appeal as a free alternative to paid streaming services, offering viewers everything from breaking news to weather updates and community stories—all without a subscription fee. Other Sinclair-managed networks, such as The CW and MyNetworkTV, may also be included in select regions, though details on the full scope of the rollout are still unfolding.
The shift comes after Sinclair sold STIRR in 2024 to a new ownership group intent on revitalizing the platform. Originally launched in 2019 as Sinclair’s foray into the streaming wars, STIRR offered a mix of live TV, on-demand content, and local channels but struggled to compete with heavyweights like Pluto TV and Tubi. Under its new stewards, the service is leaning into its roots by emphasizing local content, a niche that resonates with viewers seeking alternatives to national news overload. “We’re thrilled to bring trusted local news from Sinclair’s stations to our audience,” a STIRR spokesperson said. “This is about giving people access to what’s happening in their own backyards, completely free.”
For viewers, accessing the new channels is simple: download the STIRR app on a Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or mobile device, and the live local feeds—tailored to a user’s geographic location—will be available alongside STIRR’s existing library of movies, shows, and niche channels. The service remains entirely ad-supported, meaning no hidden costs or sign-ups are required. Industry watchers see this as a smart play to capitalize on Sinclair’s station portfolio while appealing to a growing audience of cost-conscious streamers.
Since the ownership change, STIRR has been quietly repositioning itself as a go-to for free, hyper-local content—a contrast to its broader, less focused approach under Sinclair. The addition of live news from ABC, CBS, and FOX affiliates could be a game-changer, especially as competitors like Nexstar have also begun rolling out free streaming apps for their local stations. For now, STIRR’s bet on local news is a fresh chapter in its story, one that might just convince more viewers to ditch cable for good.
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