The Best TV Apps for Cable Subscribers

Gone are the days of just flipping channels—now, TV apps can make your cable experience so much better. These apps turn your phone or tablet into a remote control powerhouse, making it super easy to watch your favorite shows and movies.

This article recommends the best TV apps for cable subscribers. We'll explore remote controls, DVR management, and streaming integration, all designed to enhance your viewing experience. Let's dive into the top apps that make TV time better and more convenient!

Why TV Apps are Essential for Cable Subscribers

Enhancing the Viewing Experience

• Your Phone as a Remote Control: Turning your phone or tablet into a remote control with TV apps is a game-changer. No more searching for the lost remote—just grab your phone, and you can easily change channels, adjust the volume, or browse the guide.
• Manage DVR Recordings Anywhere: Managing DVR recordings on-the-go is another huge benefit. With apps, you can schedule, modify, or delete recordings from anywhere. Missed setting a recording for your favorite show? No problem—just do it from your phone while you’re out and about.
• Seamless Streaming Integration: Many TV apps also integrate popular streaming services, providing a seamless experience. This integration means you have all your favorite shows and movies in one place, enhancing your overall TV experience​.

Top TV Remote Control Apps

Say goodbye to the hassle of multiple remotes with these top TV remote control apps. Transform your smartphone or tablet into a universal remote, making it easier to control your TV, set-top boxes, and other electronic devices. Discover the best apps that simplify your home entertainment setup, all in one convenient place.

AnyMote

AnyMote is a universal remote control app that turns your Android and iOS smartphone into a handy controller for all your home electronics. It brings ultimate convenience, letting you manage a wide array of devices, including TVs, set-top boxes, DVD players, Blu-ray players, amplifiers, air conditioners, AV receivers, and even DSLR cameras—all right from your phone.

Features 

• Extensive Device Support: AnyMote is compatible with over 900,000 devices, making it one of the most comprehensive universal TV remote control apps available. Whether you have the latest smart TV or older devices, AnyMote has you covered.
• Wide Range of TV Brand Compatibility: It works seamlessly with major TV brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Philips, allowing you to control multiple brands with a single app.
• Streaming Device Control: TV apps have become essential for cable subscribers, offering convenience and enhanced viewing experiences. Learn why these apps are a must-have for managing your cable TV setup.
• Smart Home Integration: This app can control smart home devices like Philips Hue lights and Nest thermostats, providing a unified control center for your home’s smart technology​t.
• Custom Macros: One of AnyMote’s standout features is its ability to automate sequences of commands. You can create a macro to turn on the TV, set the input to HDMI 1, and open your favorite streaming app with a single tap, simplifying your routine tasks.

SURE Universal Remote

SURE Universal is a top-rated, award-winning app that serves as a universal remote for both home entertainment and smart home devices. It enables you to stream music, videos, and photos to your Smart TV and other media devices.

Features

• Wide Range of TV Brand Compatibility: Sure Universal Remote supports various TV brands, including Samsung, LG, Sony, and Philips, making it a versatile choice for controlling multiple TV types​. 
• Multi-Device Control: Beyond TVs, this app can operate other devices such as Roku and Google Chromecast, and even your air conditioner, providing comprehensive control over your home electronics.​
• Voice Command Support: With integrated voice command support, you can control your TV and other devices simply by using your voice, enhancing convenience and ease of use​.
• Customizable Remote Interface: The app allows you to arrange buttons according to your preferences, giving you the flexibility to set up the remote interface exactly how you like it​​.
• Integrated TV Guide: Sure Universal includes an integrated TV guide, helping you quickly find your favorite shows and channels without the need for additional apps.
• Custom Macros: You can program a sequence of commands that can be executed with a single tap. For example, create a macro to turn on the TV, set the input to HDMI 1, and open your favorite streaming app, streamlining your entertainment setup​,

Mi Remote

Mi Remote is a multifunctional remote app that allows you to control a variety of devices, such as TVs, air conditioners, fans, and any other device with an IR sensor in your home. You can easily connect it to your TV using a Wi-Fi connection for added convenience

Features

• Appealing and Tidy Interface: Mi Remote boasts an attractive and clean design, making it easy to navigate and use. The minimalistic interface ensures a user-friendly experience, even for those new to remote control apps.
• Straightforward Setup: The app automatically scans for supported devices and guides you through the setup process, making it simple to connect and control your electronics​.
• Compatibility Check: Mi Remote can be used with any device in your home that has an IR sensor, ensuring broad compatibility for controlling various electronics​.
• Broad Android Device Support: Mi Remote is available on all types of Android devices, provided they have an IR blaster. This wide compatibility makes it a versatile choice for many users​.
• Optimized for Xiaomi Products: Xiaomi devices with IR blasters benefit the most from Mi Remote, as it is tailored to work seamlessly with Xiaomi's range of products​.
• Location-Based Remotes: The app can connect specific remotes to particular areas and display them on your lock screen based on your location, such as home or office, enhancing convenience and accessibility​.

Lean Remote

Lean Remote is a versatile app for Android devices that turns your smartphone or tablet into a universal remote control. It allows you to manage a variety of electronics, including TVs, set-top boxes, and DVD players, all from one device. This app eliminates the need for multiple remotes, making it easy to control all your devices from a single, convenient location.

Features

• Wide Device Compatibility: Lean Remote supports a vast range of brands and models, making it compatible with most popular electronic devices on the market. This includes major TV brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, Panasonic, and Sharp, as well as various other electronic appliances.
• Custom Macros: The app allows you to create sequences of commands that can be executed with a single tap. This feature is especially useful for setting up routines, like turning on the TV, adjusting the volume, and switching to your favorite channel all at once.
• Smart Home Integration: Lean Remote integrates seamlessly with various smart home platforms, providing a unified control experience. This means you can control not just your TV, but also other smart home devices through a single app.

DVR Management Apps

Discover these top DVR management apps that make it easy to record, schedule, and manage your favorite TV shows and movies. These apps provide seamless integration with your DVR, allowing you to control recordings from your smartphone or tablet. Enhance your viewing experience by staying organized and never missing an episode again.

TiVo

The TiVo app transforms your mobile device into a versatile TiVo voice remote. Relax on the couch and use your phone or tablet to search for shows, change channels, or discover more about the cast and crew effortlessly. With the TiVo app, you can go anywhere and watch everything you love without missing a beat​.

Features

• Command Central: Transform your Android phone or tablet into a command center for your TiVo DVR. You can manage recordings, schedule new ones, and adjust settings from anywhere, giving you full control over your entertainment setup even when you're not at home.
• Streaming Capabilities: With the TiVo app, you can stream live or recorded shows directly to your mobile device. This feature ensures that you can keep up with your favorite shows and movies, whether you're at home or on the go.
• Full Mobile Experience: Enjoy all of TiVo's mobile features in a user-friendly and intuitive interface. The app is designed to provide a seamless experience, allowing you to search for shows, change channels, and even learn more about your favorite programs quickly and easily​.

DISH Anywhere

The DISH Anywhere app lets users watch all their TV channels on an iPad or iPhone, just like at home. It allows you to enjoy live and recorded shows and movies anytime, manage your home DVR from anywhere, and access thousands of On Demand movies and shows from various networks.

Features

• Watch Live TV, On-Demand, DVR Recordings, Rentals, and Purchases: Access a wide range of content directly from your mobile device, including live broadcasts, on-demand shows, your DVR library, and any rentals or purchases. This feature ensures you can watch your favorite content wherever you are​.
• Download Movies for Offline Viewing: Save movies to your device for offline viewing, making it easy to watch your favorite films without an internet connection. However, note that this feature is limited to movies and not TV shows​.
• Set and Manage DVR Recordings: Schedule, modify, and delete DVR recordings remotely. This capability ensures you never miss recording your favorite shows, even if you’re away from home.
• Set and Manage Parental Controls: Easily set and manage parental controls through the app to ensure that only appropriate content is accessible to children. This feature helps parents maintain control over what their kids can watch.

DIRECTV App

The DIRECTV App is a new, convenient way for DIRECTV and DIRECTV STREAM customers to stream all their favorite entertainment. Whether live or On Demand, at home or on the go, on a big screen or a small one, the app brings all your TV options together for a seamless viewing experience. Enjoy your shows and movies however and wherever you like to watch.

Features

• Live TV: The DIRECTV app allows you to pause, rewind, and watch live TV from anywhere, making it convenient to catch up on your favorite programs on your schedule. Whether you're at home or on the go, you can enjoy your live TV channels seamlessly.
• DVR: Stream your recorded shows and movies on the go. The app enables you to access your DVR library, so you never miss a moment of your favorite content, even when you're away from home​.
• 60,000+ Titles: With access to a vast library of over 60,000 live and recorded shows, the DIRECTV app offers plenty of options to choose from. This extensive library includes movies, TV shows, sports, and more, ensuring you always have something to watch.
• Anytime, Anywhere: The app provides flexibility and convenience by allowing you to watch content on your mobile device, tablet, or TV.

Streaming Integration Apps

Explore the top streaming integration apps that unify all your favorite entertainment platforms into one seamless interface. These apps allow you to easily manage and access live TV, on-demand content, and various streaming services from anywhere.

FreeVee

FreeVee is Amazon's fast and free streaming service, initially launched as IMDb TV. After rebranding, Freevee offers a wide selection of movies and TV shows at no cost. You can access it through the Prime Video channel or use Freevee as a standalone app, providing free entertainment anytime.

Features

• Ad-Supported Service: Formerly known as IMDb TV, Amazon Freevee provides a free streaming experience supported by advertisements. This allows users to enjoy a wide range of content without any subscription fees.
• Live Channels: Freevee offers access to more than 400 live channels, including a variety of genres and interests. This extensive lineup ensures there is something for everyone to watch.
• On-Demand Content: The service features a mix of classic TV shows, movies, and some original content, providing a diverse library for users to explore.
• Original Content: Freevee also produces original shows such as "Judy Justice," "Modern Love," and "Bosch: Legacy."

Sling Freestream TV

Sling Freestream is the rebranded free tier of Sling TV, featuring some notable enhancements. The service is completely free to use without needing to provide a payment method or create an account. However, if you do sign up for a Sling Freestream account, you can access additional features that enhance your viewing experience.

Features

• Free Ad-Supported Service: Sling Freestream is a completely free, ad-supported streaming service that does not require a credit card. Users can access a wide variety of content without any subscription fees, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious viewers.
• 500+ Live TV Channels: The service offers over 500 live TV channels, providing extensive options for live viewing. This includes popular channels across various genres, ensuring there's something for everyone.
• On-Demand Content: Sling Freestream boasts a library of over 40,000 free on-demand shows and movies, including well-known titles like "Hell’s Kitchen" and "The Walking Dead." This vast selection allows users to enjoy both live and on-demand content seamlessly​.
• Ease of Use: The user-friendly interface of Sling Freestream ensures a smooth and seamless viewing experience. The intuitive design makes it easy for users to navigate and find their favorite content quickly​.

Tubi TV

Tubi is an ad-supported streaming platform that offers free access to a vast library of movies and TV shows. Users can enjoy content without a subscription fee and can watch with or without creating an account. As a go-to destination for free online entertainment, Tubi allows you to start watching immediately by downloading the Tubi app, with no monthly charges.

Features

• Extensive Content Library: Tubi TV offers a vast library with over 50,000 titles from major studios like Lionsgate, MGM, Paramount Pictures, and Warner Bros., as well as networks including A&E, Lifetime, and Starz.
• Access to Fox Shows: Tubi TV offers many popular Fox shows like "Hell’s Kitchen" and "Lego Masters" shortly after they air. This allows viewers to catch up on their favorite Fox programs without needing a cable subscription, making it a great option for cord-cutters.
• Original Content: Tubi is expanding its original content, adding 100 new film and TV titles this year. Notable originals include “Prisoner of Love,” “Corrective Measures” starring Bruce Willis, “10 Truths About Love,” “War of the Worlds: Annihilation,” and “Mysteries From the Grave: Titanic”​.
• Diverse Movie Selection: Tubi features a diverse range of movies, from classic indie titles like “Requiem for a Dream” to recent blockbusters such as “Black Adam.” This variety caters to all tastes, ensuring viewers can always find something that suits their mood.
• Variety of TV Shows: Tubi offers full seasons of numerous TV shows, ranging from classic series like “The Honeymooners” to current hits like “The Masked Singer.” This extensive collection means you can binge-watch old favorites or stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of popular series.
• Live Channels: Tubi provides access to more than 250 live channels, covering a wide array of interests and genres. Whether you’re looking for news, sports, or entertainment, these live channels offer real-time viewing options to complement Tubi's on-demand library.

Pluto TV

Pluto TV is your go-to platform for some of the most engaging live TV channels in streaming. It offers a diverse range of content, from news and sports to reality TV and opinions. Additionally, Pluto TV has a rich library of free movies and TV shows, constantly refreshed with new titles.

Features

• Curated Channels: Pluto TV offers a wide variety of curated channels that cater to specific genres and feature content from various providers. For example, channels powered by CBS include popular shows like "NCIS" and "FBI," while AMC Networks offers content such as "The Making of the Mob" and "NOS4A2: Ghost." Showtime also contributes with classics like "Dexter" and "Billions".
• NBCUniversal Channels: Pluto TV has recently expanded its offerings by adding 14 channels from NBCUniversal. These include popular channels like Bravo Vault and NBC Sports, as well as the educational and entertaining Neil deGrasse Tyson’s StarTalk channel. This addition enhances the variety and quality of content available on the platform.
• Movie Channels: Pluto TV features 25 dedicated movie channels, providing a broad range of films from classics to recent releases. This diverse selection ensures that viewers can always find a movie to suit their tastes, whether they prefer timeless classics or the latest blockbusters​.
• On-Demand Content: In addition to its live channels, Pluto TV offers a substantial library of on-demand content. This includes classic movies like "Titanic" and "Saving Private Ryan," as well as newer films such as "Lady Bird." The platform also features a wide range of TV shows, from vintage series like "The Andy Griffith Show" and "Gunsmoke" to modern hits like "The Twilight Zone" and "Criminal Minds"​.
• Pluto TV Latino: Catering to Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking audiences, Pluto TV Latino provides over 45 curated channels. These channels cover categories such as comedy, movies, music, reality TV, sports, telenovelas, and true crime, offering a rich and diverse viewing experience for bilingual viewers.

Benefits of Using TV Apps for Cable Subscribers

Convenience and Flexibility

TV apps offer unparalleled convenience and flexibility, enabling users to control their TV experience from virtually anywhere. Whether you're at home or on the go, these apps allow you to manage your content remotely, ensuring you never miss your favorite shows. Features like remote DVR management and live streaming through your smartphone or tablet make it easy to stay connected to your entertainment, providing a seamless viewing experience no matter where you are​.

Cost Savings

Using free or low-cost TV apps can significantly reduce your cable bills. Many of these apps, such as Pluto TV and Tubi, provide a wide range of ad-supported content that doesn't require additional subscriptions. This allows you to enjoy a vast selection of movies, TV shows, and live channels without the high costs associated with traditional cable packages. By leveraging these apps, you can cut down on expenses while still accessing a broad array of entertainment options.

Enhanced User Experience

TV apps are designed to enhance the user experience through personalized recommendations and intuitive interfaces. These apps analyze your viewing habits to suggest content that matches your preferences, ensuring you always have something interesting to watch. 

Additionally, consolidating all your content in one place simplifies the viewing experience, allowing you to seamlessly switch between live TV, on-demand shows, and recorded content. This streamlined approach not only makes it easier to find what you want to watch but also enhances overall satisfaction with your entertainment setup​.

How to Choose the Right TV App

Compatibility

When selecting a TV app, ensure that it supports your specific devices and cable provider. Look for apps with wide device compatibility and easy setup. This is crucial for seamless integration with your existing technology, allowing you to access and control your TV content effortlessly across different devices, whether at home or on the go​.

Features

Identify the features that matter most to you, such as voice control, streaming capabilities, or DVR management. Compare different apps based on their feature sets and user reviews to find the best fit for your needs. Look for apps that offer robust features, including cloud DVR storage and a wide range of channels, enhancing your overall viewing experience.

User Interface

Consider apps with intuitive and easy-to-navigate interfaces. A user-friendly interface can significantly enhance your viewing experience by making it easier to find and manage your favorite content. Look for apps that offer customization options to suit your preferences, ensuring that the app not only meets your functional needs but also aligns with your usability expectations​.

Future Trends in TV Apps

Enhance Utilization of AI and Personalization

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is significantly transforming TV apps by offering personalized content recommendations. AI can analyze extensive user data, including viewing habits, preferences, and behaviors, to provide highly tailored content. This advanced analysis surpasses traditional algorithms by delivering more precise and relevant suggestions. 

The potential for further customization in TV apps is substantial. AI not only aids in recommending content but also in customizing the user interface. This customization allows TV apps to adjust their layout and functionalities based on user preferences, creating a more intuitive and enjoyable viewing experience.

Expansion of Streaming Services

Growth and Impact on Traditional Cable TV

The ongoing growth of streaming services continues to impact traditional cable TV significantly. Streaming platforms are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for video consumption, with many consumers opting to cut the cord from traditional cable. According to studies, more than 80% of respondents subscribe to at least one streaming platform, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. The flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and extensive content libraries offered by streaming services make them an attractive alternative to traditional cable TV.

Evolution of TV Apps

TV apps are evolving to incorporate more streaming options and exclusive content, catering to the growing demand for on-demand viewing. Services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ are known for their high-quality original content, which attracts subscribers seeking unique content. Additionally, many streaming services are entering into exclusive deals and partnerships to secure rights to popular sports events and collaborate with renowned creators.

Conclusion: Transforming Your Cable TV Experience with the Best TV Apps

Using TV apps can significantly enhance your cable TV experience. These apps provide convenience, flexibility, and a personalized touch to your viewing habits. Give the recommended apps a try, and see how they streamline your entertainment setup. Share your experiences with friends and family—let them in on the benefits too.

As technology continues to transform our viewing habits, the possibilities are endless. Embrace these innovations and discover new ways to enjoy your favorite shows and movies. The future of TV is here, and it’s more exciting than ever!