CNN

The CNN app on Roku serves two groups of CNN viewers: Those who receive CNN through pay TV services, and those who subscribe to the CNN+ streaming service.

How to watch CNN on Roku

If you subscribe to a participating pay TV service, you can stream CNN, CNN International, and HLN on the Roku app by linking the app to your TV account. Here's how:

  1. From the CNN app on Roku, select "TV Channels" from the bottom of the left-hand menu on the app's home screen.
  2. Select "Activate Network TV".
  3. Go to www.cnn.com/activate and select Roku as your platform for activation.
  4. Enter the code found on the Activation screen on CNN's Roku app.
  5. Select your TV service provider, then enter your login credentials for that provider.

Participating TV providers include major cable services like Xfinity, Charter, and Cox, as well as many local and regional cable companies. The streaming TV services DIRECTV Stream, Hulu TV, and YouTube TV also offer access, although Sling TV is notably absent. If your TV service provider is not listed, it means that you will be unable to activate CNN's network TV channels on the Roku app.

How to watch CNN+ on Roku

CNN+ is a subscription-based offshoot of the CNN cable television news network. Launched on March 29, 2022, the video service, which is only accessible in the U.S., advertises the following benefits:

  • Stream CNN+ news coverage and reporting.
  • Uncover more stories of our world with CNN+ Original Series and Films.
  • Access CNN’s library of award-winning series and films anytime you want.
  • Watch Q&As with anchors and experts with Interview Club.
  • Save shows, films and interviews to your Watchlist.
  • Enjoy commercial-free unlimited streaming.

Here is how to access CNN+ on Roku:

  1. From the CNN app on Roku, select "Settings" from left-hand menu on the app's home screen.
  2. If you're a current subscriber, select "Account" and log into your CNN account.
  3. If you are not a current subscriber, select "Subscription" and select the option to start a 7-day free trial. If you prefer, you can subscribe through the CNN+ website and the follow the instructions above for current subscriber login.

CNN's Roku app allows free browsing of all available content, which currently includes nearly 300 shows.

-- Information is current as of April 20, 2022

Developer's Channel Description: Stay informed with CNN, and now CNN+. Subscribe to CNN+ to watch the news in a whole new way, plus stream original series, films and expert interviews on-demand. Log in with your TV provider to watch live CNN channels.

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CHANNEL STORE CATEGORY: News & Weather

DEVELOPER: CNN Interactive Group, Inc.

FEES: $6/month for CNN+; CNN cable channels free for subscribers to participating pay TV services