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CBS App Review: Comprehensive Analysis of Free Streaming and Live TV Features

by CBS Interactive

4.8
IOSEntertainment
The CBS mobile app provides free access to current episodes and live television broadcasts without subscription fees. It serves cord-cutters and traditional TV viewers seeking portable access to CBS programming including news, sports, and entertainment.

Detailed Review

The CBS application developed by CBS Interactive represents a strategic mobile extension of the broadcast network's content distribution, offering both on-demand and live streaming capabilities without mandatory subscription requirements. Positioned in the competitive streaming market, the app distinguishes itself through its dual-model approach that accommodates both casual viewers and cable subscribers seeking expanded content access. The application's core functionality centers on providing immediate access to recently aired episodes without authentication requirements, while cable provider authentication unlocks full seasons and live local station feeds. This includes live news broadcasts, sporting events such as NFL games and NCAA tournaments, and special events like awards ceremonies. The technical implementation supports streaming across multiple devices with adaptive bitrate streaming ensuring stable playback under varying network conditions. User experience demonstrates thoughtful design with intuitive navigation separating live, on-demand, and featured content sections. The interface prioritizes discoverability of current programming while maintaining easy access to live broadcasts during events. Performance analysis indicates reliable streaming quality with minimal buffering reported during standard viewing conditions, though peak event streaming may experience variability depending on network infrastructure and server load. User feedback trends consistently highlight the app's value for time-shifted viewing and mobile access. Reviewer hrrs79 (2025-08-28) noted the application's utility for catching up on daytime programming missed during work hours, while Aces625 (2025-07-18) emphasized its functionality during travel scenarios. Multiple reviews reference specific programming including survivor episodes and Big Brother, indicating strong satisfaction with content availability. The application's primary strength lies in its free access model for current content, though limitations include geographic restrictions for live local broadcasts and variable availability of archival content. The absence of subscription requirements makes it particularly valuable for casual viewers, while cable subscribers benefit from enhanced content library access. Optimal use cases include mobile viewing during commuting, travel scenarios, and time-shifted viewing of recently aired programming.

Key Features

  • Free access to recent episodes without login requirements enables immediate viewing of current programming without financial commitment
  • Live TV streaming from local CBS stations provides real-time access to news, sports, and events through cable provider authentication
  • Full season access for authenticated users allows comprehensive catch-up viewing of complete series runs and archived content
  • Multi-device synchronization supports seamless transition between mobile, tablet, and connected TV platforms maintaining viewing progress
  • Event-based content organization prioritizes live sports and awards ceremonies with dedicated viewing interfaces and scheduling
  • Download functionality for offline viewing enables content consumption without continuous internet connectivity during travel

Why Users Love It

No subscription requirements
Live local broadcast access

Perfect for: CBS viewers seeking mobile access to current programming and live events

Ranking History

Track CBS's performance in Entertainment over the last 30 days

Top 5
Top 10
Top 15
Below 15

Current Rank

#41

Best Rank

#41

All-time high

Average Rank

#41

30-day average

User Reviews

Angle207
Nov 19, 2025

Thank you I’m able to see what misses on live tv. This is a great way to keep up with my shows. CBS App Thank you I’m able to see what misses on live tv. This is a great way to keep up with my shows.

music wueen
Oct 31, 2025

Love watching all the shows that I really enjoy that CBS has. Nice to have a TV station that has all that. Great Shows Love watching all the shows that I really enjoy that CBS has. Nice to have a TV station that has all that.

Grungegoddesd
Nov 1, 2025

I like this app as I am able to watch up to date shows! I live in a very rural area and internet and satellite access is very limited and expensive. I watch my favorite CBS shows (Fire Country & Boston Blue) on my phone. Great and Up To Date Shows! I like this app as I am able to watch up to date shows! I live in a very rural area and internet and satellite access is very limited and expensive. I watch my favorite CBS shows (Fire Country & Boston Blue) on my phone.

55Budman!
Nov 3, 2025

I was supposed to have taped this show when we are out of town and I forgot. Thank you for having it on Paramount + Saved my butt! I was supposed to have taped this show when we are out of town and I forgot. Thank you for having it on Paramount +

StLouieLady
Nov 4, 2025

This is the best media app I have encountered yet. Easy to navigate, puts the latest shows front and center, and is easy to access and leave. Kudos to CBS. Exceptional This is the best media app I have encountered yet. Easy to navigate, puts the latest shows front and center, and is easy to access and leave. Kudos to CBS.

App Details

Developer

CBS Interactive

Platform

ios

Rating

4.8

Last Updated

11/23/2025