Roku devices provide users with an extensive selection of streaming content through various apps and channels. One of the most popular offerings on Roku is the ability to watch ABC Live, providing access to ABC’s highly-rated shows, news programs, and more.
With Roku’s user-friendly interface and the simplicity of the ABC app, getting set up to watch ABC Live is quick and easy. In this guide, I’ll outline the step-by-step process to start streaming ABC on your Roku device. Whether you want to watch the latest episodes of hit shows like Grey’s Anatomy and The Bachelor or stay updated with breaking news, your Roku device has you covered.
How to Watch ABC Live on Roku
Below are the basic steps to start watching ABC Live on your Roku:
Step 1: Launch the Roku Channel Store from the Home Screen
Press the Home button on your Roku remote to access the Home Screen menu. Select the Streaming Channels option to open the Roku Channel Store. This is where you can browse and download different apps and channels.
Step 2: Search for “ABC” and Select the ABC App
Once the Channel Store loads, use the search function to look for “ABC”. The official ABC app should appear as the first result. You can also browse the channel list and find it under the News & Weather category.
Select the ABC app, click on it and proceed to the next step.
Tip: Make sure you choose the app published by the American Broadcasting Company.
Step 3: Download and Install the ABC App
On the ABC app page, click on the “Add Channel” button to begin downloading. This will install the ABC app directly on your Roku device.
The installation process only takes a few moments to complete.
Step 4: Launch the ABC App and Enjoy ABC Live
Once installed, you can access the ABC app from your Roku’s home screen. Launch the app and you’ll be able to watch ABC Live streaming.
Log in with your TV provider credentials if required. Now you can enjoy live news, shows, movies and ABC’s entire streaming library!
What You Need to Keep in Mind
Before you start streaming, here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Subscription Requirement
To access ABC’s full on-demand library and live TV streaming, you need a participating TV provider’s subscription. For example, cable subscribers can log in using their provider credentials to unlock all of ABC’s content.
The ABC app does offer some free TV episodes, but a subscription is needed for unlimited access.
Other Ways to Watch ABC Live on Roku
Besides the official ABC app, there are other ways to watch ABC Live on your Roku device, including:
- Hulu + Live TV – Hulu’s live TV service provides access to ABC along with over 75+ channels.
- YouTube TV – YouTube’s live TV streaming platform also includes ABC in its channel lineup.
- FuboTV – FuboTV offers ABC in its base plans along with 100+ channels.
- TV Antenna – For Roku devices with a tuner, an over-the-air antenna can be used to watch ABC for free.
Internet Connection
Since you’ll be streaming over the internet, it’s important to have a stable high-speed connection for smooth playback without buffering issues. A minimum internet speed of at least 5 Mbps is recommended.
Roku TV Model Requirements
To watch ABC Live using just an antenna, your Roku TV will need an ATSC tuner built-in. Check your manual or specifications to confirm.
Many modern Roku TVs have a tuner built-in allowing antenna access to local channels like ABC. On other models, an external antenna is required.
Different Ways to Access ABC Content on Roku
Roku offers multiple pathways to stream content from ABC’s massive media library:
The ABC App
The official ABC app provides free access to recent episodes of shows like The Bachelor, The Rookie, Shark Tank and more. With a TV provider login, you can unlock the full ABC catalog as well as live TV streams.
Other networks like Freeform, FX, and National Geographic are also accessible through the ABC app.
ABC News Live
For 24/7 live news coverage, Roku devices provide the ABC News Live channel on The Roku Channel.
You can stream breaking news and events from ABC News, along with other live news from channels like Cheddar and Newsy.
Disney+
Disney’s streaming service includes a collection of classic and current ABC series to binge, including Grey’s Anatomy, Lost, Desperate Housewives and more.
However, Disney+ does not offer ABC’s live feeds or its entire on-demand library.
Additional Options
There are even more ways to watch ABC programming on a Roku, like using The Roku Channel’s on-demand catalog which includes some ABC content. I’ll explore more options in-depth later in this guide.
ABC Live: Free vs Paid Options
While some ABC content is free, getting full access requires a subscription. Here are the details:
Free ABC Content
The ABC app and channel make select episodes of shows available without needing a provider account. However, options are limited.
The ABC News Live channel offers free, 24/7 live news streaming from ABC News and partners.
Watching ABC Without Cable
To unlock unlimited access to ABC live feeds and on-demand content, a subscription is required. Some options that provide ABC access without cable include:
- Hulu + Live TV – $69.99/month, ABC available in most regions
- YouTube TV – $64.99/month, ABC available nationwide
- FuboTV – $69.99/month, ABC available in most regions
- HD Antenna – One-time cost, free ABC access in local broadcast range
Free Trials
Many streaming services offer free trial periods, usually 7 days, allowing you to test them out before paying. You can use the trials to confirm if ABC live streaming is available in your area.
How to Download the ABC App on Your Roku
Here is a step-by-step walkthrough on installing the ABC app:
Step 1: Access the Roku Home Screen
Power on your Roku and use the remote to navigate to the Home Screen. This is the main menu for browsing apps and channels.
Step 2: Open the Roku Channel Store
From the Home Screen, select the Streaming Channels option to launch the Channel Store. Alternatively, you can find the Channel Store under Home on the main menu.
Step 3: Search for the ABC App
In the Channel Store, use the Search option to look for “ABC”. The ABC app will appear as the first result.
Step 4: Select the ABC App
Choose the app published by the American Broadcasting Company. Verify it’s the correct app before proceeding.
Step 5: Click “Add Channel”
On the ABC app page, click the “Add Channel” button to begin the download process. This will install it directly onto your Roku device.
Step 6: Launch the ABC App
After installation completes, you can access the ABC app from the Home Screen or Channel Store.
Step 7: Log In With Your TV Provider
Follow the on-screen instructions to log in with your cable, satellite or live TV streaming service credentials. This authorizes access to ABC live feeds and on-demand content.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Favorite ABC Shows!
You are now ready to watch ABC live, view full episodes, and explore ABC’s entire streaming library. The ABC app also provides recommendations to help you discover new shows.
Alternatives to Roku
Roku devices make it easy to watch ABC Live, but there are other streaming platforms available if you want an alternative:
Amazon Fire TV
Amazon’s Fire TV devices enable ABC live streaming through compatible apps like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV. Fire TV even allows hands-free voice controls with Alexa.
Apple TV
The Apple TV 4K and HD models support the ABC app along with other ways to access ABC, like Hulu with Live TV. Apple TV offers intuitive navigation with the Siri remote.
Google Chromecast
Chromecast allows you to “cast” streaming video from apps on your phone or laptop directly to your TV screen. You can cast content from the ABC app as well as live TV services like Hulu with Live TV.
Watch ABC on Roku Using Hulu Live TV
One way to enjoy ABC Live on Roku without cable is through Hulu with Live TV:
Hulu + Live TV Subscription Required
To watch ABC live streams and on-demand content on Hulu, you need the Hulu + Live TV plan. This starts at $69.99 per month.
ABC Available in Most Regions
Hulu + Live TV provides live ABC feeds for most areas of the U.S. Limited restrictions may apply in certain markets.
Download the Hulu App on Your Roku
Access ABC live programming by installing the Hulu app from the Roku Store and signing into your Hulu account.
Watch ABC on Roku With YouTube TV
YouTube TV is another option for streaming ABC Live on Roku without cable:
Stream ABC Live With YouTube TV
YouTube TV supplies live ABC feeds in their base channel package for $64.99/month. No ABC add-ons required.
Available on Multiple Devices
YouTube TV works across Roku, mobile devices, browsers and more, allowing you to stream ABC anywhere.
Find YouTube TV in the Roku Channel Store
Download the YouTube TV app from the Roku Store, launch it, and sign into your account to start streaming ABC.
Troubleshooting ABC on Roku
Here are some tips for troubleshooting streaming problems with the ABC app:
Disconnect and Reconnect Roku
If you experience connectivity issues like network errors, unplug your Roku device then plug it back in after 1 minute to restart it. Reconnect to the internet.
Reset Your Roku
For software-related issues, head to Settings > System > Advanced System Settings on your device and select Factory Reset. This will reset the Roku to default settings and often resolves app problems. Note that you will have to re-login to channel apps afterwards.
Uninstall and Reinstall the ABC App
Go to your Roku’s My Channels menu, select the ABC app, choose to uninstall it, confirm, and then reinstall a fresh copy of the app from the Roku Store.
Conclusion
I hope this guide gave you a good overview of how to start streaming live ABC television on your Roku device. The process is very quick and straightforward. In no time, you can be watching the latest episodes of your favorite ABC shows.
To recap, simply install the ABC app from the Roku Store, log in with your TV provider credentials, and enjoy unlimited access to ABC content. You can also watch ABC Live using services like Hulu + Live TV without a cable subscription.
If any issues come up, try the troubleshooting tips mentioned to get ABC working properly on your Roku again. With Roku’s intuitive software and ABC’s great streaming offerings, you’ll be entertained in no time!