Paramount+

What is Paramount+?

Paramount+ is a premium streaming service launched by Paramount Global (formerly ViacomCBS) in March 2021, evolving from the earlier CBS All Access platform. The service combines live sports, breaking news, and an extensive entertainment library featuring content from CBS, MTV, BET, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and the Paramount Pictures film studio. With a focus on delivering both legacy content and new original programming, Paramount+ has positioned itself as a comprehensive entertainment destination for diverse audiences.

What distinguishes Paramount+ from competitors is its unique combination of live content and on-demand entertainment. The platform offers live streaming of local CBS stations, access to NFL games on CBS, UEFA Champions League soccer, and other major sporting events. This live programming capability, combined with a deep library of beloved franchises like Star Trek, SpongeBob SquarePants, South Park, and the Mission: Impossible film series, creates a value proposition that appeals to both traditional TV viewers and streaming-native audiences.

With over 60 million global subscribers, Paramount+ continues to expand its footprint through strategic partnerships and content investments. The service has invested heavily in producing new entries in established franchises while developing fresh original content across multiple genres. The platform’s integration with Showtime content in select markets further enhances its appeal to viewers seeking premium entertainment options without managing multiple streaming subscriptions.

Key Features

• Live CBS Streaming: Watch your local CBS station live including news, sports, and primetime programming directly through the Paramount+ app without cable subscription.
• NFL on CBS: Access live NFL games broadcast on CBS during football season, including AFC playoff games and the Super Bowl in rotation years.
• UEFA Champions League: Exclusive streaming access to UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Europa Conference League soccer matches for football enthusiasts.
• Paramount Originals: Exclusive original series including Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Yellowstone spinoffs, Mayor of Kingstown, and 1923 with Taylor Sheridan content.
• Nickelodeon Content: Complete library of Nickelodeon classics and new productions including SpongeBob, PAW Patrol, and iCarly for family entertainment.
• MTV and Comedy Central: Access to beloved series like South Park, The Daily Show, Jersey Shore, and RuPaul’s Drag Race with full episode archives.
• Paramount Pictures Films: Stream blockbuster movies from Paramount Pictures including Mission: Impossible, Top Gun, Transformers, and new theatrical releases.
• Showtime Integration: Paramount+ with Showtime bundle provides access to premium Showtime content including Yellowjackets, Billions, and Dexter in one subscription.
• Download for Offline: Download movies and TV episodes on mobile devices for offline viewing during travel or without internet connectivity.
• Multiple Profiles: Create up to six user profiles with individual recommendations, watch history, and Kids Mode for age-appropriate content filtering.

What’s New

Paramount+ has undergone significant evolution recently, expanding its content library and enhancing the user experience:

• Showtime Complete Merger: Full integration of Showtime content into Paramount+ with the phasing out of the standalone Showtime app, creating a unified premium experience.
• Taylor Sheridan Universe Expansion: New series from Taylor Sheridan’s production deal including additional Yellowstone universe content and original dramas.
• Enhanced Sports Coverage: Expanded UEFA Champions League coverage with new studio programming and enhanced match day experiences for soccer fans.
• Improved Streaming Quality: Upgraded infrastructure supporting 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos on more content across the library.
• International Content: Addition of international programming and original productions from Paramount’s global studios in various markets.
• Kids Experience Upgrade: Enhanced Nickelodeon section with interactive features, games, and new original animated series for younger audiences.
• Live Channel Experience: Introduction of live linear channels curated by genre, allowing traditional TV-style browsing alongside on-demand content.
• AI-Powered Recommendations: Improved recommendation engine using machine learning to surface personalized content based on viewing habits.

System Requirements

Windows

• Operating System: Windows 10 or later
• Browser: Latest Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari
• RAM: 4 GB minimum recommended
• Internet: 4 Mbps for HD, 16 Mbps for 4K streaming
• No dedicated Windows app – web streaming only

macOS

• Operating System: macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or later
• Browser: Safari 12+, Chrome, Firefox, or Edge
• Mac App Store app available for macOS 11+
• Internet: 4 Mbps for HD, 16 Mbps for 4K

Smart TVs and Streaming Devices

• Amazon Fire TV: Fire TV Stick (2nd Gen+), Fire TV Cube, Fire TV Edition
• Apple TV: 4th generation or later with tvOS 13+
• Roku: Roku Express, Premiere, Streaming Stick+, Ultra
• Samsung Smart TV: 2017 models and newer (Tizen)
• LG Smart TV: 2018 models and newer (webOS 4.0+)
• Android TV: Android TV 5.0 or later
• Chromecast: Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast with Google TV
• PlayStation: PS4, PS5
• Xbox: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S

Mobile

• iOS: iPhone and iPad running iOS 14.0 or later
• Android: Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later
• Storage: 80 MB for app plus space for downloads

How to Install Paramount+

Windows/Mac Web Access

1. Open your preferred web browser
2. Navigate to paramountplus.com
3. Click “Try It Free” or “Sign Up”
4. Choose your subscription plan
5. Create account and start streaming

# Paramount+ streams via web browser
# Visit: https://www.paramountplus.com

# Supported browsers:
# - Google Chrome (latest)
# - Mozilla Firefox (latest)
# - Microsoft Edge (latest)
# - Safari 12+ (macOS)

# Mac App Store (macOS 11+)
# Search "Paramount+" and install

Smart TV Installation

1. Navigate to your TV’s app store
2. Search for “Paramount+”
3. Download and install the app
4. Open and sign in or create account
5. Begin streaming your favorite content

# Fire TV
# Home > Find > Search > "Paramount+"
# Select Download

# Roku
# Home > Streaming Channels > Search
# "Paramount+" > Add Channel

# Apple TV
# App Store > Search "Paramount+"
# Get and Install

# Android TV / Google TV
# Google Play Store > "Paramount+"
# Install

Mobile Installation

1. Open App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
2. Search for “Paramount+”
3. Tap Install or Get to download
4. Open app and sign in or subscribe
5. Configure streaming quality and notifications

Gaming Console Installation

# PlayStation
# Go to PlayStation Store
# Search "Paramount+"
# Download and Install

# Xbox
# Open Microsoft Store
# Search "Paramount+"
# Install app

# Sign in with existing account
# or subscribe through console

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Live Sports Access: Unique combination of NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League, and other live sports programming sets Paramount+ apart from entertainment-only competitors.
• Iconic Franchises: Extensive library of beloved properties including Star Trek, SpongeBob, South Park, and Paramount Pictures blockbuster films appeals to diverse audiences.
• Live Local CBS: Ability to stream local CBS affiliate live without cable subscription provides cord-cutters with essential broadcast television access.
• Competitive Pricing: Lower base price than many competitors makes Paramount+ accessible for budget-conscious viewers seeking quality entertainment options.
• Showtime Integration: Combined Paramount+ with Showtime plan offers premium content value at lower cost than separate subscriptions would require.
• Family-Friendly Content: Comprehensive Nickelodeon library and dedicated Kids Mode make it excellent for families with children of various ages.
• Taylor Sheridan Content: Exclusive access to the expanding Yellowstone universe and Taylor Sheridan productions attracts dedicated fan communities.

Cons

• Fragmented Content Library: Some CBS shows and movies still require separate purchases or appear on other platforms due to existing licensing agreements.
• Interface Navigation: Users report the app interface can be cluttered and difficult to navigate compared to more streamlined competitor applications.
• Limited 4K Content: The 4K HDR library is smaller than competitors, with many titles still limited to HD quality streaming.
• Ads on Essential Plan: The lower-priced Essential plan includes advertisements, requiring premium tier for completely ad-free viewing experience.
• Streaming Quality Issues: Some users report buffering and quality fluctuations during peak viewing times, particularly for live sports events.

Paramount+ vs Alternatives

Who Should Use Paramount+?

Paramount+ is ideal for:

• Sports Enthusiasts: Fans seeking NFL on CBS coverage, UEFA Champions League soccer, and PGA Tour golf in one streaming destination.
• Star Trek Fans: Trekkies wanting access to all Star Trek series from the original to new productions like Strange New Worlds and Discovery.
• Yellowstone Universe Fans: Viewers invested in Taylor Sheridan’s expanding western drama universe including 1883, 1923, and upcoming spinoffs.
• Families with Kids: Parents seeking comprehensive Nickelodeon content including SpongeBob, PAW Patrol, and classic Nick shows for children.
• South Park Devotees: Long-time South Park fans with access to the complete series library plus exclusive new specials and movies.
• CBS Viewers: Cord-cutters who want to maintain access to CBS programming including NCIS, FBI, and local news broadcasts.

Paramount+ may not be ideal for:

• 4K Quality Seekers: Viewers prioritizing 4K HDR content may find the limited Ultra HD library insufficient compared to competitors.
• Ad-Averse Budget Viewers: Users on the Essential plan must tolerate advertisements, with ad-free requiring the higher Premium tier price.
• Interface Perfectionists: Those who prioritize clean, intuitive app design may find Paramount+’s navigation frustrating compared to alternatives.
• Movie-Focused Viewers: Users primarily interested in new theatrical releases may find the movie library rotates more slowly than competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Paramount+ Essential and Premium plans?

Paramount+ Essential costs $5.99 per month and includes access to most on-demand content with limited commercial interruptions, but does not include live streaming of your local CBS station or the ability to download content for offline viewing. Paramount+ with Showtime (Premium) costs $11.99 per month and provides ad-free streaming of on-demand content, live local CBS streaming, download capability for offline viewing, and full access to the Showtime content library including original series like Yellowjackets and Billions.

Can I watch NFL games on Paramount+?

Yes, Paramount+ streams NFL games broadcast on CBS, including regular season AFC games, playoff matchups, and the Super Bowl during CBS broadcast years (the Super Bowl alternates between CBS, NBC, and Fox). To access live NFL games, you need Paramount+ with Showtime subscription, which includes live streaming of your local CBS affiliate. The Essential plan does not include live CBS streaming, so NFL access requires the premium tier or adding the live TV option to Essential.

Does Paramount+ include Showtime content?

Yes, Paramount+ has merged with Showtime to create Paramount+ with Showtime. The standalone Showtime app has been discontinued, and all Showtime original series, movies, and documentaries are now available through the Paramount+ with Showtime subscription tier at $11.99 per month. This includes access to shows like Yellowjackets, Billions, Dexter, Ray Donovan, Shameless, and the full Showtime library of films and boxing events.

How many devices can stream Paramount+ simultaneously?

Paramount+ allows up to three simultaneous streams on different devices using the same account. This applies to both Essential and Premium subscription tiers. The service supports up to six user profiles, allowing family members to maintain separate watch histories and recommendations. For downloaded content, you can store videos on up to five devices, with downloaded titles typically available for 30 days and 24-48 hours after starting playback.

Is Paramount+ available internationally?

Yes, Paramount+ is available in numerous international markets including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Latin America, parts of Europe, and the Middle East. However, content libraries vary by region due to licensing agreements, so some shows and movies available in the US may not be accessible in other countries. The live CBS streaming feature is only available to US subscribers, and sports coverage varies by market based on broadcast rights in each territory.

Final Verdict

Paramount+ has emerged as a compelling option in the crowded streaming marketplace by combining live sports, news, and entertainment in ways that few competitors can match. The platform’s unique strength lies in its ability to serve viewers who want both on-demand content libraries and live programming without subscribing to traditional cable packages. With NFL football, UEFA Champions League soccer, and live local CBS stations alongside extensive entertainment content, Paramount+ fills a specific niche for cord-cutters seeking comprehensive coverage.

The integration of Showtime content significantly enhances the platform’s value proposition, bringing premium dramas and films into the same subscription. For fans of specific franchises like Star Trek or the Yellowstone universe, Paramount+ represents essential viewing, as these properties are not available elsewhere. The family-friendly Nickelodeon content makes it particularly attractive for households with children, while mature programming from Comedy Central and MTV appeals to adult viewers.

Paramount+ is recommended for viewers seeking a balance of live sports, beloved franchises, and family entertainment at competitive pricing. While the platform still has room for improvement in areas like interface design and 4K content availability, its unique content mix and reasonable pricing make it a worthy consideration for anyone building their streaming portfolio. The Paramount+ with Showtime bundle at $11.99 offers exceptional value for those wanting premium content without managing multiple subscriptions.