CBS News has launched CBS News 24/7, a free anchored streaming service providing continuous breaking news and original reporting [1, 2].
The move signals a shift toward free, ad-supported digital news as traditional cable viewership declines. By removing paywalls, the network aims to capture a broader audience across multiple devices.
The service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week [3]. It is available to viewers through web browsers, the CBS News mobile app, and various streaming platforms [3, 1]. This infrastructure allows the network to deliver live events and breaking news updates in real time to a global audience [1, 2].
Content on the platform includes a mix of national reporting and contributions from local stations [1, 2]. The service is free to watch [3], removing the financial barrier for users seeking immediate news updates. This strategy allows the network to integrate its local news assets with national coverage on a single digital stream.
By utilizing a 24/7 format, the network can pivot quickly during major news events without waiting for scheduled broadcast windows [1]. The service integrates original reporting alongside live feeds, creating a hybrid environment of scheduled programming and immediate updates.
Access to the stream is managed via the internet, ensuring that users can transition between the mobile app and desktop browsers without interruption [3]. The network intends for the service to serve as a primary destination for audiences who prefer streaming over traditional television sets [1, 2].
“The service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week”
The launch of CBS News 24/7 reflects a broader industry trend where legacy media organizations bypass cable bundles to reach audiences directly. By offering a free, always-on stream, CBS is competing with both traditional news networks and the rapid-fire nature of social media news cycles, attempting to establish a trusted, centralized hub for digital-first viewers.
