CBS News has launched CBS News 24/7, a free streaming service providing anchored news and breaking stories 24 hours a day, seven days a week [1].
The expansion marks a shift in how the network distributes its reporting, moving beyond traditional broadcast windows to provide continuous, worldwide access to news. This strategy allows the organization to reach audiences on a variety of digital platforms without a subscription fee.
The service delivers a mix of live events, original reporting, and top stories. It is available online through the CBS News website and mobile applications. The network also integrated the service into platforms such as Xbox One [2].
"CBS News is expanding its live streaming offerings to bring news to viewers wherever they are," a CBS News spokesperson said [3].
While the streaming service focuses on consumer accessibility, the network has also navigated internal labor relations. A union representing the service consists of 60 members [4]. Recent labor agreements involving the network have focused on the integration of new technology. "The tentative agreement will provide AI and layoff protections for our members," a WGAE President said [5].
These agreements aim to balance the network's digital growth with worker security. A union spokesperson said the three-year deal is a win for both the network and the writers [6].
By combining a free-to-access streaming model with updated labor contracts, the network is positioning itself for a digital-first environment. The service remains free to all viewers, removing the financial barrier to real-time news consumption [2].
“CBS News 24/7 is a free, anchored streaming news service that delivers breaking news 24 hours a day.”
The launch of a free, 24/7 streaming news cycle indicates a broader industry trend toward 'always-on' journalism. By bypassing paywalls and integrating into gaming consoles, CBS is targeting younger, digitally native audiences who consume news asynchronously rather than through scheduled television broadcasts.
