how to get local channels on samsung smart tv
To get local channels on a Samsung Smart TV, you generally either use a TV antenna with the built‑in tuner or use internet-based options like Samsung TV Plus and live TV streaming apps that carry local stations.
Using an antenna (free over‑the‑air)
This is the most reliable way to get true local broadcast channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS, etc.) without a subscription.
- Connect the antenna
- Plug a digital HDTV antenna into the RF/ANT IN coaxial port on the back of your Samsung TV.
* Place the antenna near a window and as high as possible for better reception.
- Select the TV source
- Press the Home or Source button on your Samsung remote.
- Choose TV (or Live TV on newer models) instead of HDMI or apps.
- Run Auto Program / Channel Scan
- Go to Settings → Broadcasting → Auto Program (or Settings → Channel → Auto Tuning on some models).
* Choose **Air** (for antenna only) or **Both Air and Cable** if you also have basic cable.
* Start the scan and wait while the TV finds all available local channels.
- Watch and organize channels
- After the scan, press Channel List or go back to Live TV to browse what was found.
* In **Channel List → Edit Channels** , you can hide weak or unwanted channels and keep just your favorites.
Tip: If you get few or glitchy channels, try moving the antenna, using a longer cable, or upgrading to a better amplified antenna.
Using Samsung TV Plus (internet local-style channels)
Samsung TV Plus is Samsung’s free, ad‑supported streaming service built into many Smart TVs and newer models now include region-based news and some “local” style channels.
- Open Samsung TV Plus from the Home screen or the Live TV section.
- Browse the guide; look under News , Local , or US News/Regional rows for channels serving your area.
- Some regions tie guide info to your ZIP/postal code; if prompted, enter your correct location so local listings show properly.
This does not always give you the exact same local broadcast station as an antenna, but it often includes local or regional news feeds and city‑focused channels.
Using streaming apps with locals
Many live TV streaming services and network apps now carry local affiliates, so you can get local channels without an antenna if you have good internet.
Live TV streaming services (paid)
Common options (availability varies by country and region):
- YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, fuboTV, DirecTV Stream, Sling (in some markets).
- Install from the Samsung Apps store, sign up, and enter your ZIP code so it unlocks local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, etc. where supported.
Individual network apps (often free with ads)
- Install apps like NBC , ABC , CBS , FOX NOW , or your local station’s app if they offer a Samsung TV app.
- Many provide live local news or next‑day episodes for free; some require a cable/streaming login.
Quick HTML table of main options
| Method | What you get | Cost | Needs internet? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antenna + channel scan | True over‑the‑air locals (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS) | One‑time cost of antenna | No | Maximum free local channels |
| Samsung TV Plus | Free live channels + some regional/local news | Free (ad‑supported) | Yes | Quick, no hardware setup |
| Live TV streaming apps | Locals + cable channels in one guide | Monthly subscription | Yes | Cord‑cutters replacing cable |
| Network- specific apps | Individual channels’ live/news & on‑demand | Usually free, sometimes login required | Yes | Just one or two favorite networks |
Little “forum-style” troubleshooting notes
“My Samsung can’t find any local channels!”
- Make sure Broadcasting menu isn’t greyed out; if it is, switch the source to TV/Live TV first.
- Confirm the antenna is firmly attached to the RF port and not to an HDMI input.
- Run Auto Program again and choose Air or Both , not just Cable.
“Channels used to work but now they’re gone.”
- Rescan; local stations sometimes change frequencies, especially after regional updates.
- Check for a Samsung TV firmware update in Settings → Support → Software Update to fix tuner or guide glitches.
TL;DR: For the most complete local lineup, connect an HDTV antenna, set the source to TV/Live TV, and run Auto Program to scan for channels. If you prefer internet-only, use Samsung TV Plus plus live TV apps (YouTube TV, Hulu Live, etc.) and network apps to get local news and broadcasts over Wi‑Fi.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.
