Verizon Fios TV gives you access to some streaming services built into the box, but not all of them
Verizon Fios TV includes a few streaming apps directly on your set-top box — mainly Fios TV+ (which comes with your subscription), Netflix, YouTube, and a handful of others depending on your package. However, Fios TV is not a streaming service itself. It is a traditional cable TV service, so it does not include access to every streaming platform you might want. If you want Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, or Paramount+, you will need separate subscriptions to those services, though some can be bundled with your Fios account for a discount.
The apps that are built into your Fios box work through your internet connection, so you need active Fios internet service to use them. This is different from cable channels, which come through your TV line. Understanding which services are included, which cost extra, and which require a separate subscription entirely will help you figure out what you actually need to pay for.
Key Takeaways
- Fios TV+ is included with most Fios TV packages and gives you on-demand movies and shows, but it is not the same as having Netflix or Disney+.
- Netflix, YouTube, and a few other apps are built into the Fios box, but you need your own paid Netflix account to watch — the app is just the way to access it.
- Major streaming services like Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and Paramount+ are not included and require separate subscriptions, though Verizon sometimes offers bundle discounts.
- You can also connect external devices like Roku, Apple TV, or Fire Stick to your TV to access any streaming service, whether or not Fios supports it natively.
What comes built into your Fios box
Your Fios set-top box has apps for Netflix, YouTube, and Fios TV+ already installed. Fios TV+ is Verizon's own streaming service and comes included with most Fios TV packages — it offers on-demand movies, shows, and some live channels. The Netflix and YouTube apps are just shortcuts to those services; you still need your own Netflix subscription to watch anything on Netflix through the Fios app.
Some Fios packages also include apps for Peacock (NBC's streaming service), the Fios mobile app, and occasionally others. The exact lineup depends on which Fios TV package you have and when you signed up. You can check what apps are available on your box by looking at the app menu on your remote, or by calling Verizon to ask what comes with your specific plan.
Streaming services you need to pay for separately
Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Paramount+, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime Video are not included with Fios TV. You will need to pay for each one separately through their own apps or websites. However, Verizon sometimes offers bundle deals where you can add some of these services to your Fios bill at a discount — for example, a Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+) or HBO Max at a reduced monthly rate.
These bundle offers change frequently and vary by region, so the best way to find out what is available to you is to log into your Verizon account online or call Verizon directly. Even if a bundle is not available, you can still subscribe to any of these services on your own and watch them on your TV by connecting an external streaming device or using the apps on your smart TV if you have one.
How to access streaming services that Fios does not include
If you want to watch a streaming service that is not built into your Fios box, you have two main options. The first is to connect an external device to your TV — a Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Google Chromecast, or even a laptop. These devices have their own app stores where you can download Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, or any other service you subscribe to. This is often the easiest route because you get a dedicated remote and the apps are optimized for your TV screen.
The second option is to use a smart TV if you have one. Most modern televisions have built-in apps for major streaming services, so you can download them directly to the TV without needing an external device. You can use your Fios box for cable channels and switch to the TV's native apps for streaming — just use your TV remote to change inputs.
Whether Fios internet is required for streaming apps
Yes, you need active Fios internet service to use the streaming apps on your Fios box. The apps connect through your home internet, not through the cable line that carries your TV channels. If your internet goes down, the streaming apps will not work, even though your cable channels might still come through.
This is worth knowing if you are considering dropping Fios internet and keeping only the TV service. You would lose access to the built-in apps, though you could still use an external streaming device connected to your internet from another provider. Many people in this situation choose to keep both services because the bundle price is often lower than paying for them separately.
Bundling streaming services with your Fios bill
Verizon periodically offers discounts on streaming services when you add them to your Fios account. These deals typically include Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+), HBO Max, or Paramount+. The discount is usually $5 to $10 per month off the regular price, and the service gets billed directly to your Verizon account instead of requiring a separate subscription.
The catch is that these offers are temporary and change based on promotions Verizon is running. Some offers are only available to new customers, while others are available to existing customers for a limited time. Check your Verizon bill or log into your account online to see what bundle deals are currently available to you. You can also ask about them when you call Verizon customer service.
Using your Fios login to access streaming services
Some streaming services let you sign in with your Verizon Fios credentials instead of creating a separate account. This is most common with services that Verizon has a partnership with, like Peacock or certain premium channels. When you see a "Sign in with Fios" or "Sign in with Verizon" option on a streaming app, you can use your Fios username and password instead of remembering another login.
This does not mean the service is free — it just means you are using your Fios account to verify that you have a subscription to that service. For example, if you have HBO Max as an add-on to your Fios bill, you can sign into the HBO Max app with your Fios credentials. This is a convenience feature, not a way to unlock services you do not pay for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Netflix on my Fios box without a Netflix subscription?
No. The Netflix app on your Fios box is just a way to access Netflix — it does not include a free subscription. You need to pay for Netflix separately and sign in with your Netflix account to watch anything. The app is there for convenience so you do not have to switch to a different device.
Does Fios TV+ replace Netflix or other streaming services?
No. Fios TV+ is Verizon's own on-demand library and comes included with most Fios TV packages, but it is much smaller than Netflix or Disney+. It has some movies and shows, but it is not a replacement for major streaming services. Think of it as an extra benefit, not as a substitute.
What if I have a smart TV instead of using the Fios box?
You can use both. Your smart TV likely has built-in apps for Netflix, Disney+, and other services, so you can watch those directly on the TV. You can still use your Fios box for cable channels. Just switch your TV input to whichever device you want to use at the moment.
Can I use Fios internet with a streaming device instead of the Fios box?
Yes. You can cancel Fios TV and keep just the internet, then use a Roku, Apple TV, Fire Stick, or smart TV to access all your streaming services. Many people do this because it is cheaper than paying for cable TV and gives you more control over what you watch.
Are there any streaming services included free with Fios TV?
Fios TV+ is included with most packages. Some packages also include limited access to Peacock. Beyond that, you need separate subscriptions or bundle deals. Verizon sometimes runs promotions where you get a free trial of a streaming service, but these are temporary offers.