Now TV Explained: Your Ultimate Guide to Streaming Entertainment

Are you looking for a flexible and affordable way to access premium TV content without being tied down to lengthy contracts? Look no further than Now TV (often referred to as NOW), Sky’s internet-based streaming service. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Now TV, from its different packages and devices to setup, troubleshooting, and even tips for maximizing your viewing experience. Get ready to unlock a world of entertainment!

## What is Now TV (NOW)?

Now TV is a streaming service offered by Sky that allows you to access a variety of Sky’s content – including movies, sports, entertainment, and kids’ shows – on a month-by-month basis. Unlike a traditional Sky subscription, Now TV doesn’t require a satellite dish or long-term commitment. Everything is streamed over the internet, making it a convenient and accessible option for anyone with a decent broadband connection.

## Benefits of Now TV

* **No Contract:** This is the biggest draw for many. You can cancel your subscription at any time without penalty.
* **Flexibility:** Choose the passes that suit your interests and budget. You’re not forced to pay for channels you don’t watch.
* **Affordable:** Now TV passes are generally cheaper than a full Sky subscription.
* **Instant Access:** Start watching your favorite shows and movies almost immediately after signing up.
* **Multiple Devices:** Watch Now TV on a variety of devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and streaming sticks.

## Understanding Now TV Passes: Choosing the Right Option for You

Now TV offers different passes, each providing access to a specific type of content. Here’s a breakdown of the main passes available:

* **Entertainment Membership:** This pass gives you access to a wide range of TV channels, including Sky Atlantic (home to HBO shows like *Game of Thrones*), Sky Max, Sky Comedy, Sky Documentaries, and more. It also includes access to hundreds of box sets.
* **Cinema Membership:** This pass allows you to stream a vast library of movies, including the latest blockbusters. New movies are added regularly.
* **Sports Membership:** The Sports Membership offers access to all 11 Sky Sports channels. This is ideal for sports fans who want to watch live Premier League football, cricket, Formula 1, golf, and more. Daily, weekly, or monthly options are available, providing great flexibility for specific sporting events.
* **Hayu Membership:** If you’re a reality TV fan, the Hayu Membership is for you. It gives you access to thousands of episodes of reality shows from the US and UK, often available on the same day as they air in the US.
* **Boost:** While not a content pass, Boost enhances your Now TV viewing experience. It allows you to stream in Full HD (1080p) and on up to three devices simultaneously (instead of the standard one). It also removes ads from on-demand content (except for live channels and some third-party content).

**Choosing the Right Pass(es):**

Consider your viewing habits and interests when choosing your Now TV passes. If you love TV dramas and comedies, the Entertainment Membership is a must. If you’re a movie buff, the Cinema Membership is essential. And if you’re a sports fanatic, the Sports Membership is the obvious choice.

## Getting Started with Now TV: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a detailed guide on how to sign up for Now TV and start streaming:

**1. Sign Up for a Now TV Account:**

* Go to the Now TV website (nowtv.com). Make sure you are on the official website.
* Click on the “Join Now” or “Start Free Trial” button (if a free trial is available). The exact wording may vary depending on current promotions.
* Enter your email address and create a strong password. Choose a password that is difficult to guess and uses a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
* Fill in your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and address. Ensure the information is accurate.
* Enter your payment details. You’ll need to provide a valid credit or debit card. Even if you’re signing up for a free trial, you’ll still need to enter your payment information.
* Choose the passes you want to subscribe to. You can select multiple passes at once.
* Review your order and confirm your subscription.

**2. Download the Now TV App:**

Now that you have an account, you need to download the Now TV app on your chosen device(s). The app is available for a wide range of devices, including:

* **Smart TVs:** Most modern smart TVs from brands like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Panasonic have the Now TV app available in their app stores. Search for “Now TV” in the app store and download it.
* **Streaming Sticks and Boxes:** Now TV is compatible with popular streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Apple TV. Download the app from the respective app store on your device.
* **Smartphones and Tablets:** Download the Now TV app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or the Google Play Store (for Android devices).
* **Computers:** You can watch Now TV on your computer by visiting the Now TV website in your web browser. No app download is required for computers.
* **Gaming Consoles:** Now TV is available on PlayStation and Xbox consoles. Download the app from the PlayStation Store or the Microsoft Store.

**3. Install and Launch the Now TV App:**

* Once the app is downloaded, install it on your device. The installation process is usually automatic.
* After installation, launch the Now TV app.

**4. Sign In to Your Account:**

* When the app opens, you’ll be prompted to sign in. Enter the email address and password you used when creating your Now TV account.
* If you have two-factor authentication enabled, you’ll need to enter the verification code sent to your email or phone.

**5. Start Streaming!**

* Once you’re signed in, you’ll be able to browse the available content based on the passes you’ve subscribed to.
* Select the show or movie you want to watch and click on the “Watch Now” button.
* The stream will start playing automatically.

## Watching Now TV on Different Devices: A Device-Specific Guide

Here’s a more detailed look at how to watch Now TV on some of the most popular devices:

**1. Smart TVs:**

* **Installation:** Navigate to your smart TV’s app store and search for “Now TV”. Download and install the app.
* **Sign In:** Launch the app and enter your Now TV credentials.
* **Navigation:** Use your TV remote to navigate the app’s interface. You can browse content by category, search for specific titles, or view your watchlist.
* **Playback:** Select a show or movie and press the “Play” button. Use the remote to control playback, such as pausing, rewinding, and fast-forwarding.
* **Resolution:** If you have the Boost add-on, ensure your TV and internet connection support Full HD (1080p) streaming for the best picture quality. Check your TV settings to confirm the resolution is set to 1080p or higher.

**2. Streaming Sticks (Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick):**

* **Installation:** Plug the streaming stick into an HDMI port on your TV. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the stick to your Wi-Fi network.
* **Download the App:** Navigate to the streaming stick’s app store and search for “Now TV”. Download and install the app.
* **Sign In:** Launch the app and enter your Now TV credentials.
* **Navigation:** Use the streaming stick’s remote to navigate the app’s interface.
* **Voice Control:** Some streaming sticks, like the Amazon Fire TV Stick with Alexa, allow you to control Now TV using voice commands. For example, you can say “Alexa, play *Game of Thrones* on Now TV.”

**3. Smartphones and Tablets:**

* **Download the App:** Download the Now TV app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
* **Sign In:** Launch the app and enter your Now TV credentials.
* **Offline Downloads:** The Now TV app allows you to download some content for offline viewing. This is useful if you’re traveling or don’t have access to Wi-Fi.
* **Chromecast/AirPlay:** You can cast Now TV content from your smartphone or tablet to your TV using Chromecast or AirPlay. This allows you to watch on a larger screen.

**4. Computers:**

* **Web Browser:** Open your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.) and go to the Now TV website (nowtv.com).
* **Sign In:** Click on the “Sign In” button and enter your Now TV credentials.
* **Playback:** Browse the available content and click on a show or movie to start watching. Use the on-screen controls to manage playback.
* **System Requirements:** Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for streaming Now TV. This typically includes a relatively modern web browser and a decent internet connection.

**5. Gaming Consoles (PlayStation, Xbox):**

* **Download the App:** Navigate to the PlayStation Store (on PlayStation) or the Microsoft Store (on Xbox) and search for “Now TV”. Download and install the app.
* **Sign In:** Launch the app and enter your Now TV credentials.
* **Navigation:** Use your gaming console’s controller to navigate the app’s interface.
* **Enhanced Experience:** Some users find that gaming consoles provide a smoother and more stable streaming experience compared to other devices.

## Optimizing Your Now TV Experience: Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Now TV subscription:

* **Check Your Internet Speed:** Now TV requires a stable internet connection for smooth streaming. Sky recommends a minimum speed of 2.5Mbps for standard definition and 5Mbps for HD. Run a speed test to check your internet speed. If your speed is too low, contact your internet service provider to upgrade your plan.
* **Close Other Applications:** Close any other applications that are using your internet connection, such as file downloads or online games. This will free up bandwidth and improve streaming performance.
* **Connect via Ethernet:** If possible, connect your streaming device to your router using an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi. This will provide a more stable and reliable connection.
* **Restart Your Router:** If you’re experiencing buffering or other streaming issues, try restarting your router. This can often resolve temporary network problems.
* **Manage Your Data Usage:** Streaming video can consume a lot of data. If you have a limited data plan, be mindful of how much you’re watching. You can adjust the streaming quality in the Now TV app settings to reduce data usage.
* **Take Advantage of Free Trials:** Now TV often offers free trials for new customers. Take advantage of these trials to test out the service and see if it’s right for you.
* **Cancel Unwanted Passes:** Remember that you can cancel your Now TV passes at any time. If you’re no longer interested in a particular type of content, cancel the corresponding pass to save money.
* **Keep Your App Updated:** Make sure you have the latest version of the Now TV app installed on your device. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.
* **Check for Deals and Promotions:** Now TV frequently offers deals and promotions on its passes. Keep an eye out for these offers to save money on your subscription. Look out for bundled offers, such as a discounted Entertainment and Cinema Membership.
* **Utilize the Watchlist Feature:** Add shows and movies you want to watch to your watchlist. This makes it easy to find them later.
* **Explore the On-Demand Library:** Don’t just focus on live TV. Now TV has a vast library of on-demand content, including box sets of popular TV shows and a wide selection of movies.
* **Use Parental Controls:** If you have children, set up parental controls to restrict access to age-inappropriate content. You can set PINs to prevent them from watching certain channels or movies.

## Troubleshooting Common Now TV Issues

Even with a good internet connection, you may occasionally encounter problems while streaming Now TV. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

* **Buffering:** Buffering is when the video pauses and starts intermittently. This is usually caused by a slow or unstable internet connection. Try the following:
* Check your internet speed.
* Close other applications that are using your internet connection.
* Restart your router.
* Connect via Ethernet.
* Reduce the streaming quality in the Now TV app settings.
* **Error Messages:** If you see an error message, take note of the error code. This code can help you identify the problem. Check the Now TV help website for information about specific error codes.
* **App Not Working:** If the Now TV app is not working properly, try the following:
* Restart your device.
* Clear the app’s cache and data (on Android devices).
* Uninstall and reinstall the app.
* Make sure you have the latest version of the app installed.
* **Sound Issues:** If you’re having trouble with the sound, try the following:
* Check the volume on your device and TV.
* Make sure the audio output is set correctly in your device settings.
* Try a different HDMI cable.
* Restart your device.
* **Video Quality Issues:** If the video quality is poor, try the following:
* Make sure you have a fast enough internet connection.
* Adjust the streaming quality in the Now TV app settings.
* Make sure your TV and device support HD streaming.
* Upgrade to the Boost add-on for Full HD streaming.
* **Account Issues:** If you’re having trouble signing in to your account, try the following:
* Make sure you’re using the correct email address and password.
* Reset your password if you’ve forgotten it.
* Contact Now TV customer support if you’re still having trouble.

## Cancelling Your Now TV Subscription

One of the best things about Now TV is its flexibility. Cancelling your subscription is easy and can be done at any time.

Here’s how to cancel your Now TV subscription:

1. **Sign In to Your Account:** Go to the Now TV website (nowtv.com) and sign in to your account using your email address and password.
2. **Go to “My Account”:** Click on the “My Account” or “My Membership” section. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on the website design.
3. **Find Your Passes:** You’ll see a list of your active Now TV passes.
4. **Cancel the Pass(es) You Want to Cancel:** Click on the “Cancel Pass” or “Manage Pass” button next to the pass you want to cancel. You may need to confirm your cancellation.
5. **Follow the Instructions:** Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the cancellation process. You may be asked to provide a reason for cancelling.
6. **Confirmation:** You’ll receive a confirmation email once your cancellation is complete. Make sure to check your email to ensure the cancellation was processed successfully.

**Important Considerations When Cancelling:**

* **Cancellation Deadline:** You need to cancel your pass at least 24 hours before your next billing date to avoid being charged for the following month.
* **Access Until End of Billing Period:** You’ll continue to have access to the content included in your cancelled pass until the end of your current billing period.
* **Re-subscribing:** You can re-subscribe to a cancelled pass at any time.

## Now TV vs. Sky Q: Which is Right for You?

Now TV and Sky Q are both offered by Sky, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which one is right for you:

**Who Should Choose Now TV?**

* Those who want a flexible and affordable way to access Sky content without a long-term contract.
* Those who don’t want a satellite dish.
* Those who are happy with basic streaming features.
* Those who prioritize affordability over advanced features.

**Who Should Choose Sky Q?**

* Those who want access to the full range of Sky channels and features.
* Those who are happy to commit to a long-term contract.
* Those who want advanced features like multi-room viewing, voice control, and recording.
* Those who want access to UHD content.

## Is Now TV Worth It? A Final Verdict

Now TV is a compelling option for anyone seeking flexible and affordable access to premium TV content. Its no-contract approach, diverse range of passes, and compatibility with multiple devices make it a winner for many. While it may lack some of the advanced features of Sky Q and doesn’t offer UHD streaming without workarounds using a Sky Stream puck and a Now TV Boost subscription, its affordability and flexibility make it a strong contender in the streaming landscape.

If you’re looking to cut the cord, avoid long-term commitments, and enjoy a variety of content without breaking the bank, Now TV is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to choose the right passes for your interests and optimize your setup for the best possible viewing experience.

## Conclusion

Now you have a comprehensive understanding of Now TV. You know what it is, how it works, how to sign up, how to watch on different devices, and how to troubleshoot common problems. You’re now well-equipped to make the most of this versatile streaming service and enjoy a world of entertainment at your fingertips. Happy streaming!

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Now TV Explained: Your Ultimate Guide to Streaming Entertainment

Now TV Explained: Your Ultimate Guide to Streaming Entertainment