Live TV on a smart TV can mean local broadcast channels from an antenna, free ad-supported streaming channels, or both in one guide. You do not need a cable subscription for either option.
These steps apply to Roku TVs, Google TV and Android TV models, Samsung TVs, and LG TVs. The menus differ, but the setup path is the same: connect or enable the live source, then open the guide.
Does this affect you?
Use this guide if you want local channels, free streaming channels, or a live channel guide on your smart TV. Antenna channels use broadcast signals; streaming channels use your internet connection.
Connect an antenna and scan for channels
- Plug the antenna coaxial cable into the TV port labeled ANT, Air, RF, or Antenna.
- If the antenna is amplified, connect its power.
- Open Settings and go to Channels, Broadcasting, Live TV, or Channel setup.
- Choose Antenna or Air as the source, not Cable.
- Select Auto Program, Channel Scan, or Auto Tuning.
- Let the scan finish completely. It can take several minutes.
After the scan, the TV saves the channels it finds. Use the channel buttons or guide to browse them. Reception depends on distance from broadcast towers, building materials, antenna height, and antenna placement.
Use free streaming live TV channels
Many smart TVs include free live channels that stream over the internet.
- Roku TV: Press Home and open the Live TV tile. Roku’s free live channel guide works once the TV is online.
- Google TV or Android TV: Open the Live tab and follow prompts to add free channels to your guide.
- Samsung TV: Open Samsung TV Plus from the home screen.
- LG TV: Open LG Channels from the app row or home screen.
These services usually include news, movies, sports highlights, lifestyle channels, and general entertainment. They are free because they include ads.
Combine antenna and streaming channels
Some platforms can show antenna and streaming channels in one guide. Roku TVs often add scanned antenna channels into the Live TV guide automatically. Google TV can show live sources together when the model or tuner setup supports it.
Not every smart TV merges both sources. If your TV has a Live TV app, look for antenna, tuner, or channel guide settings after completing the antenna scan.
Improve results
Antenna placement matters. Put an indoor antenna high, near a window, and away from electronics. Use an online antenna map to learn where local towers are and point the antenna in that direction when possible.
If the scan finds nothing, confirm the cable is in the ANT/Air port, not HDMI, and verify any amplifier is powered. If streaming live channels buffer, troubleshoot Wi-Fi or use Ethernet because those channels rely on your internet connection.
Sources
- Roku Support – Set up Live TV on your Roku TV (2025)
- FCC Consumer Guide – Antenna TV and the DTV transition (2025)
- Google TV Help – Watch live TV on Google TV (2025)