Verizon Fios TV does not include built-in streaming services, but you can add them separately

Verizon Fios TV is a traditional cable television service that delivers channels through a set-top box. It does not come with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, or other streaming platforms built into your bill or your Fios interface. However, you can subscribe to streaming services independently and watch them on the same TV by connecting a separate device — a streaming stick, smart TV app, or gaming console — to your television.

The confusion often comes from the fact that newer TV services sometimes bundle streaming access, or that Fios TV boxes have internet connectivity. Fios TV itself remains a channel-based service where you pay for packages of live channels. Streaming services are separate products you would purchase from their own companies or through third-party platforms.

Key Takeaways

  • Verizon Fios TV is a cable service with live channels, not a streaming platform, so Netflix and similar services are not included.
  • You can watch streaming services on the same TV as Fios by connecting a Roku, Apple TV, Fire Stick, or using a smart TV's built-in apps.
  • Some streaming services offer discounts when bundled with other products, but Verizon does not currently bundle streaming services into Fios TV packages.
  • Your Fios internet connection can support streaming while you watch Fios TV, as long as your internet speed meets the service's requirements.

How to watch streaming services alongside Fios TV

The simplest way is to connect a streaming device to an HDMI port on your television. Popular options include Roku Streaming Stick, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast. These devices cost between $30 and $100 depending on the model, and once connected, you can switch between your Fios TV input and your streaming input using your TV remote.

If your television is a smart TV — a Samsung, LG, Sony, or similar model made in the last five years — it likely has Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming apps built directly into the TV's operating system. You can read these apps from the TV's app store without buying an external device. Check your TV's menu to see what apps are available.

You can also use a gaming console like a PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch to stream services if you already own one. These devices have apps for most major streaming platforms and connect to your TV the same way a streaming stick does.

What internet speed you need for streaming while using Fios TV

Fios TV uses a dedicated line separate from your internet connection, so watching live TV does not use your internet bandwidth. However, if you want to stream Netflix, Disney+, or another service at the same time someone else is using Fios TV, your internet speed matters.

Most streaming services recommend at least 5 to 10 megabits per second (Mbps) for standard definition and 25 Mbps for 4K video. Verizon Fios internet plans typically start at 300 Mbps, which is more than enough to stream multiple services simultaneously while Fios TV is running. If you have an older or slower internet plan, check your current speed by visiting speedtest.net, and contact Verizon if you want to upgrade.

Streaming services Verizon has offered partnerships with

Verizon has occasionally offered discounts on streaming services as a customer perk, but these are not the same as bundling them into your Fios TV bill. In the past, Verizon bundled Disney+ with some Fios plans, and offered discounts on Apple TV+. These offers change frequently and depend on your plan and region.

If you are a Verizon customer, check your account online or call Verizon directly to see if any current promotional offers explore to you. Do not assume a past offer is still available — these partnerships end and restart regularly. The streaming service itself will always be a separate subscription you manage with that company, not something Verizon bills you for as part of your Fios TV package.

The difference between Fios TV and streaming-only services

Fios TV is a cable service: you pay a monthly fee for a package of live channels, and a box in your home receives and decodes that signal. You watch what is on right now, or you use the DVR feature to record programs. Streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu work differently — you pay a monthly fee to access a library of on-demand content that you choose when to watch.

Some people use Fios TV for live sports and news, then use streaming services for movies and shows they want to watch on their own schedule. Others have switched entirely to streaming and cancelled cable. Verizon offers both options: you can keep Fios TV, switch to streaming only, or use both at the same time.

Checking what apps your Fios TV box can access

Newer Fios TV boxes do have some app functionality built in, though this varies by box model. Some boxes allow you to read apps like YouTube or Peacock directly on the Fios interface. Check your Fios TV box remote — if it has an app button or menu option, you can explore what is available. Not all streaming services are available this way, and the selection is limited compared to a dedicated streaming device.

For the widest selection of streaming services and the most reliable performance, connecting a separate streaming device remains the better choice. Fios TV boxes are optimized for cable TV, not streaming, so a dedicated device will usually be faster and have more app options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get Netflix included with my Fios TV bill?

No, Netflix is not included with Fios TV packages. You must subscribe to Netflix separately. Verizon occasionally offers promotional discounts on streaming services for existing customers, but these are limited-time offers and do not add the service to your bill — you still manage the subscription with Netflix directly.

Does Verizon Fios TV come with Peacock?

Fios TV does not automatically include Peacock, though some Fios TV boxes have a Peacock app you can read. You would still need a Peacock subscription. Verizon has run promotions offering free or discounted Peacock access to certain Fios customers, so check your account to see if you may have access to.

What if I want to cancel Fios TV and just use streaming services?

You can cancel Fios TV at any time and keep your Fios internet. Your streaming devices will work fine with just an internet connection. Be aware that some Verizon promotional offers bundle internet and TV together at a discounted rate, so cancelling TV may raise your internet bill.

Can I watch Fios TV on my phone or tablet?

Verizon offers the Fios TV app for phones and tablets, which lets you watch some live channels and on-demand content when connected to your home network or through the app. This is separate from streaming services — it is an extension of your Fios TV subscription. Availability of channels in the app varies.

Do I need a faster internet plan to stream while watching Fios TV?

Probably not. Fios TV uses a separate line from your internet, so it does not compete for bandwidth. Most Fios internet plans are fast enough to stream multiple services at once. If you have an older plan under 100 Mbps, streaming 4K video might slow down other devices, but standard streaming will work fine.