Philo offers an impressive lineup of channels, with over 70 live TV channels and 100+ free, ad-supported channels. It is also one of the most affordable live TV streaming services, making it an excellent option if you are looking for a reliable pay-TV service.
However, you are likely to be disappointed with Philo if you are looking to stream live local TV channels. Unlike most other live TV streaming services, Philo does not offer local broadcast networks such as ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, or their affiliates.
In this guide, we take a deeper look into why Philo doesn’t offer local channels, the types of channels you can get on the platform, and how you can supplement your Philo subscription with local channels.
Why doesn’t Philo offer local channels?
The lack of local channels on Philo is by design. The streaming service foregoes local channels in favour of popular entertainment channels.
Cost is one of the top reasons Philo does not offer local channels; the platform positions itself as a low-cost service for cord-cutters.
And while local channels are popular on several pay-TV platforms, they are surprisingly expensive, with many local broadcast networks charging high retransmission fees. The cost is likely to be even higher for channels that offer live sports.
Therefore, instead of offering several channels (including local channels) at a higher price, Philo foregoes them in favour of a strong lineup of channels at an affordable cost.
Beyond cost, Philo’s content niche is another reason it does not offer local channels.
The platform’s primary focus is entertainment content, including lifestyle, reality TV, drama, romance, culture, and family-friendly content. Therefore, it is understandable why local channels, which mainly offer local news and sports, may be overlooked on the platform.
The availability of local channels on Philo, however, might change in the future. In a FAQ section on Philo’s help centre, the streaming service states that while it does not currently offer local channels, it is always open to expanding its current channel lineup.
What channels can you get on Philo?
Philo offers over 70 live TV channels under the Philo Core subscription plan. These channels are a collection of popular entertainment channels in various genres, including:
- Entertainment: Channels like Paramount Network, VH1, Comedy Central, Lifetime, OWN, and BET.
- Lifestyle and Home: Channels like HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Magnolia Network, and Travel Channel.
- Family-friendly: Channels like Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., TeenNick, Nicktoons, Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and Hallmark Family.
- Documentary & History: Channels like Discovery Channel, History, A&E, Discovery ID, Animal Planet, and Military History.
In addition to these channels, Philo offers an extensive lineup of ad-supported channels, including over 120 free channels across genres such as entertainment, lifestyle, reality TV, home improvement, sports, news, and more.
Some of the top channels offered under the free plan include AMC Thrillers, BBC News, beIN Sports XTRA, Cheddar News, Cine Life, Crime Thrillers, Judge Nosey, HSN, and more.
How do you get local channels with Philo?
Philo’s lack of local channels can be frustrating, especially if you are set on an affordable pay-TV service. However, if local channels are a must-have for you, there are ways you can get them and still enjoy the Philo pay-TV service.
1. Get a TV antenna
One of the top ways to get local channels with Philo is to use a TV antenna. Most local channels (and their affiliate stations) are available over-the-air, and you can receive them on your TV for free with an inexpensive TV antenna.
You can use an indoor or outdoor antenna, depending on the signal quality in your area. With a good antenna, you will receive various major free-to-air networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS, The CW, and their local affiliate stations.
2. Pair Philo with a service that offers local channels
In addition to a TV antenna, you can also pair Philo with a service that offers local channels. If price is not an issue, you can purchase an additional Live TV streaming service (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, etc.) or a pay-TV package (cable or satellite TV).
However, if you are looking to cut down on streaming costs, you can find several free streaming platforms that offer local channels. Some top options include The Roku Channel, Zeam, Sling Freestream, TCLtv+, Pluto TV, Google TV, Plex, and Samsung TV Plus.