Setting up streaming
apps & accounts on
your smart TV
Want to stream TV, movies and sport?
Read this first.
07 Aug 2018
What should I look for in online video streaming?
With so many streaming services, which one is best for you?
What is streaming?
Streaming apps lets you enjoy video over the internet without downloading the media file first. You can stream on devices like smartphones, tablets, PCs and smart TVs. With a smart TV, you can use the app on your smartphone as a remote control.
Why would I use streaming?
Convenience. You can watch what you want, when and where you want. You're not tied to a TV schedule, or even a TV. You can watch TV series, movies, sport and more. Or binge on a full season of episodes at once. Some streaming providers will also recommend content according to your viewing habits.
What kind of services are there?
Basically, there are two kinds of services - free or paid.
Free streaming services
These are the free-to-air channels that generally stream the same content as they broadcast. Free-to-air channels also offer catch-up TV for programs you've missed. Often these programs will have a use-by date.
Paid streaming services
You'd recognise the names because everyone's talking about them. Netflix, Stan, Foxtel Now and of course BigPond Movies.
Netflix, Stan and Foxtel Now have a monthly subscription and sometimes an initial free trial period. Fees can vary depending on a range of factors including the number of screens you use. For example, Netflix has packages across smart TVs, phones, tablets and some gaming consoles.
Which streaming service is best?
That depends on what you want to watch, and whether you want to pay for it.
Free services
If you're happy with what's on TV, then free-to-air is fine. Online channels include:
ABC iView
SBS On Demand
7Plus
9Now
tenplay
Some broadcasters like SBS On Demand require you to sign in. Others like ABC iView don't.
All free-to-air on one app
Instead of logging into different channels, you can access all of them with the Freeview FV app. The app offers live streaming from more than 25 free-to-air channels and supports Chromecast. Plus you get:
Catch up TV
TV Guide
Search across all free-to-air programs
Reminders, favourites and recommendations.
Subscription services
When selecting a subscription service, see what content best suits you. Are you addicted to TV series or a movie buff? Is sport your passion? See what's on offer and make your choice. You might even decide to have more than one service.
Telstra TV
With Australia’s first integrated live TV, catch-up and on-demand search function, the Telstra TV device lets you search simultaneously for specific titles across live TV, Foxtel Now, Netflix, Stan, BigPond Movies, and free-to-air catch-up TV. No more juggling multiple apps to find what you want! Plus, the device remembers your usage patterns and intuitively takes you back to what you were last watching. It’s exclusive to eligible Telstra broadband customers. Find out more here.
We’re here to help
Need more help getting set up with your favourite streaming apps? Talk to our Telstra Platinum tech experts.
Call 13 75 87
Outside Australia call +612 9242 0570
What else can Telstra Platinum help me with?
Whether your service or technology is from Telstra or another provider, our tech experts can help you. They’re available 24x7 over the phone and online to help you with your mobile, tablet, Wi-Fi, email, smart home and connected devices, data back-up and more. It’s all part of a Telstra Platinum subscription.
Got a one-off problem? Find out more about our no-fix no-fee services.