If you want to know how to get local channels on Xfinity Flex, you’re on the right page!
Xfinity Flex is a device that streams 4K apps and shows, including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more. However, it doesn’t have a built-in antenna or tuner, so it can’t scan for local channels.
To get local channels on Flex, use the Local Now app for live local news and weather. But first, check the listings on your device for available local channels.
Alright, let’s see other ways!
Easy Ways on How to Get Local Channels on Xfinity Flex
There are several ways to get local channels on Xfinity Flex. We’ll show you how to do the different methods step by step.
#1: Check the Local Listings on Your Xfinity Flex
Before using any apps, you should see if your Xfinity Flex has local channels in your area.
To check the local listings, follow these steps:
- Press the Home button on your Xfinity Flex remote.
- Select the Guide tile to see a list of available channels.
- Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to scroll through the channels.
- Use the Left and Right arrow buttons to navigate through the times.
- Select a channel to see more information about it.
- The guide will display the current airing and the upcoming shows.
- Press OK on a channel to watch it.
Note: The availability and number of local channels on Xfinity Flex depend on your market and location.
#2: Use the Local Now App
Use the Local Now app if you don’t find any Xfinity Flex local channels or want more options.
Local Now is a free app that streams live local news and weather from over 200 US markets and lets you watch videos on demand.
To use the Local Now app on your Xfinity Flex, follow these steps:
- Press the Home button on your Xfinity Flex remote.
- Select the Apps tile.
- Select the Local Now app to open it.
- You will see a list of local news, weather, and videos.
- Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to scroll through the channels.
- Select a channel to watch it.
- The Local Now app will start streaming the channel.
Note: The available channels on the Local Now app will vary depending on where you live.
#3: Get the Xfinity TV Service
Signing up for the Xfinity TV service is another way to get local channels on your Xfinity Flex.
Xfinity TV offers hundreds of channels, including the local ones, in various plans and packages. It also features DVR, On Demand, Streampix, and more.
To get the Xfinity TV service, follow these steps:
Online
- Go to the Xfinity website.
- Click on the Sign Up button.
- Select TV and choose the plan you want.
- Enter your contact details and billing information.
- Select a self-installation option or schedule a technician to visit.
- Pay the activation fee and monthly subscription fee.
By Phone
- Call Xfinity customer service at 1-800-XFINITY.
- Tell the representative you want to sign up for Xfinity TV.
- Choose a plan.
- Provide your contact details and billing information.
- Select self-installation or schedule a technician to visit.
- Pay the activation fee and monthly subscription fee.
Note: You need an Xfinity Internet plan and additional equipment, like a cable box or CableCARD device, to get Xfinity TV.
#4: Upgrade to the Xfinity Choice TV Plan
Switch to the Xfinity Choice TV plan for a low-cost live TV option on your Xfinity Flex.
This plan gives you limited basic channels, HD service, 20 hours of Cloud DVR, Streampix, and the option to add premium channels and genre packs for an additional fee.
To upgrade your plan to Xfinity Choice TV, follow these steps:
- Press the Home button on your Xfinity Voice remote.
- Scroll down and select Shop.
- Turn right and select Upgrade to Xfinity TV.
- Choose the Choice TV Plan.
- Press OK.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to complete your order.
Note: Upgrading to Choice TV Plan entails a one-time activation fee of $15, plus taxes and fees.
#5: Subscribe to Services with Local Channels on Xfinity Flex
Another way to watch local channels on your Xfinity Flex is by signing up for services that stream TV channels over the internet. These services include YouTube TV, Hulu Live TV, Sling TV, and Paramount+.
To subscribe to these services, follow these steps:
- Go to the Apps row on the Flex home screen.
- Select View All Apps.
- Go to Video.
- Choose YouTube TV or Hulu Live TV.
- Click on the Start Free Trial button.
- Enter your contact details and billing information.
- Select the plan you want.
- Click Subscribe.
Note: You will need an account for YouTube TV and Hulu Live TV and a reliable internet connection to stream the channels.
#6: Connect Your TV to an External Antenna
Do you get local channels with Xfinity Flex? If you don’t, connect your TV to an external antenna.
The external antenna picks up over-the-air signals from local broadcast stations, allowing you to watch these channels for free.
To connect your TV to an external antenna, follow these steps:
- Get an antenna that works with your TV and location.
- Connect it to the coaxial port on the back of your TV.
- Turn on your TV.
- Go to the Settings menu.
- Select the option to scan for channels or set up antenna.
- Wait for your TV to find and save available local channels.
- Switch inputs from HDMI (Xfinity Flex) to Antenna (TV).
Note: Using an external antenna requires trial and error in finding the best position and direction for the antenna. Consider getting an amplifier or splitter if you have a weak signal or multiple TVs.
#7: Use a Separate Streaming Device
Other streaming devices allow you to watch local channels on your Xfinity Flex. These include Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, and TiVo Stream 4K.
They connect to another HDMI on your TV and let you use various apps and services with local channels.
To use a separate streaming device, follow these steps:
- Get a streaming device compatible with your TV that supports local channels.
- Connect it to another HDMI port on the back of your TV using an HDMI cable.
- Turn on your TV and switch from HDMI (Flex) to (HDMI streaming device).
- Follow the instructions to set up your streaming device.
- Download and open the apps or services with local channels on your streaming device.
- Sign up or sign in to the apps or service.
#8: Cast Local Channels from Your Phone
Finally, use your phone to cast local channels to your TV wirelessly. Some apps or websites have local channels. Send them from your phone to your TV’s screen by using your phone as a remote control.
iPhone
- Connect your iPhone and Xfinity Flex to the same WiFi network.
- Download and open the Google Home app.
- Tap the + icon in the top left corner of your screen.
- Select Set up device, then Set up new devices in your home.
- Follow the instructions to add your Xfinity Flex as a device on Google Home app.
- Tap the cast icon in the top right corner.
- Select your Xfinity Flex as the device to cast to.
- Download the app or website that offers local channels on your iPhone.
- Sign up or sign in to the app or website.
- Choose the local channel you want to watch.
- Tap Play.
Android
- Connect your Android phone and Xfinity Flex to the same WiFi network.
- Swipe down from the top of your phone’s screen and tap the Smart View icon.
- Select your Xfinity Flex as the device to cast to.
- Download and open the app or website that offers local channels.
- Sign up or sign in to the app or website.
- Choose the local channel you want to watch.
- Tap Play.
Tip: Not all apps and websites with local channels support casting. Check the compatibility and availability of the app or website you want to use to cast local channels on your phone.
Recap
You have many options if you’re wondering how to get local channels on Xfinity Flex. The easiest is using the Local Now app, which streams local news and weather. There are also alternative methods like getting Xfinity TV and other services.
For more information about Xfinity Flex, visit our blog!
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Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites. Check out more about him here.