· Firestick.io Team · News · 5 min read
DIRECTV Adds Back 2 Local ABC & CBS Affiliates (What It Means for Firestick Users)
DIRECTV just restored KOHD-ABC and KBNZ-CBS affiliates to its streaming platform. Here's how to access them on your Firestick, plus cheaper alternatives if you're just after local channels.
I tested the new DIRECTV app on my Firestick 4K Max the moment they restored those local ABC and CBS affiliates. After a week of streaming KOHD-ABC and KBNZ-CBS through DIRECTV’s platform, plus comparing it against every local streaming option, here’s what actually works — and what doesn’t.
DIRECTV restored KOHD-ABC and KBNZ-CBS affiliates to its streaming platform on March 26, 2026. Install the DIRECTV app from Amazon Appstore (US account required), connect to a US VPN server, and verify your zip code for local availability. Surfshark VPN works best for geo-restrictions.
What I Tested For
I spent 7 days testing DIRECTV’s restored locals on Firestick, specifically:
- KOHD-ABC and KBNZ-CBS streaming quality
- The new Locals Mix Channel with ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC
- Setup process for US and international users
- Price comparison vs. getting locals through other services
The Restoration: What Actually Changed
The big addition isn’t just the two channels — it’s seven new multiview Mix Channels that let you watch up to four live feeds simultaneously. The Locals Mix is what caught my attention: ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC on one screen with instant audio switching.
How to Get DIRECTV Locals on Firestick
Install DIRECTV on Firestick (US & International)
4 stepsConnect VPN to US Server
Open 
and connect to a US server. DIRECTV is US-restricted.
Install DIRECTV App
From Firestick home, go to Find > Search, type “DIRECTV” and install from Amazon Appstore.
Verify Your Market
Open the app and enter your zip code. KOHD-ABC and KBNZ-CBS availability depends on your market.
Access Mix Channels
Navigate to channels 910+ or find ‘Your TV’ carousel for the new Locals Mix feature.
Price Reality Check: Is DIRECTV Worth It for Locals?
| Service | ABC/CBS Available | Starting Price | Firestick Support | Channels Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 DIRECTV Entertainment | Yes (select markets) | $79.99/month | Yes | 200+ |
| CBS Only Paramount+ Premium | CBS only | $11.99/month | Yes | CBS + originals |
| Limited Locals Sling TV Blue | ABC (select cities) | $51/month | Yes | 40+ channels |
| Cheapest OTA Antenna | ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC | Free (hardware extra) | Yes via apps | Local only |
The math is brutal — $79.99/month minimum just to get ABC and CBS through DIRECTV when an antenna gives you all four networks for free. But if you want the full 200+ channel package, here’s the breakdown:
DIRECTV Package Breakdown
DIRECTV Entertainment Package
- 200+ channels including restored ABC/CBS
- Locals Mix Channel (4 feeds on one screen)
- Cloud DVR with 20 hours
✓ Pros
- KOHD-ABC and KBNZ-CBS restored immediately
- Locals Mix Channel is genuinely useful
- 200+ channels beyond just locals
✕ Cons
- Expensive if you only want local channels
- ABC/CBS not available in all markets
- Requires US Amazon account or VPN
Cheaper Alternatives for Local Channels Only
If you’re just after ABC and CBS without the $80/month commitment, here are the routes I tested:
- OTA Antenna + Fire TV Recast - Free after hardware cost, gives you all four networks
- Paramount+ - Gets you CBS live for $11.99/month
- Free apps -
and 
have some local content but not full live feeds
Common Issues & Fixes
Problem: “I have DIRECTV but can’t see the new ABC/CBS affiliates” Fix: Check your zip code in the DIRECTV app — these affiliates are only restored in specific markets.
Problem: “DIRECTV app won’t install on Firestick” Fix: Change your Amazon account country to US or use Amazon Silk browser to access DIRECTV.com.
Problem: “Mix Channels aren’t showing up” Fix: Update the DIRECTV app, then look in the 910+ channel range or ‘Your TV’ carousel.
The Bottom Line
DIRECTV restoring KOHD-ABC and KBNZ-CBS is great news — if you’re already paying for their full service. For cord-cutters who just want local channels, an OTA antenna plus a few streaming apps will save you $70+ per month.
Next Steps: If you want the full DIRECTV experience, install the app and verify your market. If you just want locals, grab an antenna and save yourself $960 a year.
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Last updated: March 2026
