Cord-cutters now have a 24/7 online news network to add to their repertoire. CBS on Thursday launched CBSN, an interactive streaming channel offering round-the-clock news updates that doesn't require a separate cable subscription.
CBSN is an independent, ad-supported news network that features live, anchored coverage from veterans and new correspondents each weekday from 9 a.m. until midnight ET. The channel will bolster its offering with content from other CBS programs including CNET, Entertainment Tonight and CBSSports.com.
It's initially being sponsored by Amazon and Microsoft, we're told.
They'll also mix in content from affiliates and may switch to showing CBS News content in the event of breaking news. And in addition to watching live, CBSN offers DVR-like features so viewers can rewind to catch up on content they may have missed earlier in the broadcast.
In a statement on the matter, CBS Corp president and CEO Les Moonves said CBSN is an important example of how CBS is able to leverage the unique strengths, talent and competitive advantages of its businesses to create exciting, highly competitive new services that meet evolving audience preferences for content consumption.
CBSN is available online at CBSNews.com and is also being offered on Amazon Fire TV, Roku streaming boxes and through the CBS News app for desktop and Windows Phone users. Apps for Android and iOS are expected before year's end, the company said.