Are you an avid sports fan frustrated that you can’t watch ESPN with ESPN+? You’re not alone. Many sports enthusiasts have been left scratching their heads, wondering why they can’t access their favorite sports network with the streaming service. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of sports broadcasting, explore the differences between ESPN and ESPN+, and uncover the reasons behind this limitation.
What is ESPN+?
Before we dive into the issue, let’s take a step back and understand what ESPN+ is. Launched in 2018, ESPN+ is a streaming service offered by ESPN Inc., a joint venture between The Walt Disney Company and Hearst Communications. ESPN+ is designed to provide additional sports content, exclusive to the platform, that complements the ESPN network.
ESPN+ offers a range of sports programming, including:
• Exclusive events, such as UFC fights, MLB games, and tennis matches
• Original content, like documentaries and studio shows
• On-demand access to sports news, highlights, and analysis
However, despite its promise, ESPN+ has left many users feeling confused and frustrated. So, what’s the deal?
Why Can’t I Watch ESPN with ESPN+?
The main reason you can’t watch ESPN with ESPN+ is that they are two separate entities with distinct content offerings. ESPN is a traditional linear television network, while ESPN+ is a streaming service. This distinction is crucial in understanding why you can’t access ESPN with ESPN+.
ESPN, the traditional network, is available through traditional cable and satellite providers, such as Comcast, DirecTV, and Dish Network. To watch ESPN, you need a subscription to one of these providers, which typically includes a bundle of channels, including ESPN.
On the other hand, ESPN+ is a standalone streaming service that offers exclusive content not available on the traditional ESPN network. ESPN+ is designed to be an add-on to your existing cable or satellite subscription, not a replacement.
Licensing and Rights Issues
One of the primary reasons ESPN+ doesn’t include access to the traditional ESPN network is licensing and rights issues. ESPN has agreements with various sports leagues, organizations, and broadcasters to air specific events and programming on their traditional network. These agreements often come with territorial restrictions, blackouts, and other limitations that prevent ESPN+ from streaming the same content.
For example, the NFL has its own exclusive streaming deal with Verizon, which restricts ESPN’s ability to stream NFL games on ESPN+. Similarly, the NBA has its own streaming service, NBA League Pass, which limits ESPN+’s access to NBA games.
Business Model and Revenue Streams
Another reason ESPN+ doesn’t include access to ESPN is the business model and revenue streams behind the two entities. ESPN generates revenue primarily through traditional television advertising and subscription fees from cable and satellite providers.
ESPN+, on the other hand, relies on subscription fees from its users. By keeping ESPN+ as a separate entity, ESPN can maintain its traditional revenue streams while generating additional revenue from the streaming service.
What Are the Benefits of ESPN+?
Despite the limitations, ESPN+ offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for sports fans:
Exclusive Content
ESPN+ provides access to exclusive events, original content, and on-demand programming not available on the traditional ESPN network. This includes:
• Exclusive UFC events, like Fight Nights and original documentaries
• MLB games, including spring training and minor league games
• Tennis matches, including Grand Slam events and ATP/WTA tournaments
• Original documentaries, like the award-winning “30 for 30” series
Affordability
ESPN+ is an affordable option, priced at $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year. This is significantly cheaper than traditional cable or satellite subscriptions, making it an attractive option for sports fans on a budget.
Flexibility
ESPN+ is available on a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Chromecast. This flexibility allows users to access their favorite sports content anywhere, anytime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reason you can’t watch ESPN with ESPN+ is due to the differences in content offerings, licensing and rights issues, and business models between the two entities. While ESPN+ may not provide access to the traditional ESPN network, it offers exclusive content, affordability, and flexibility that make it an attractive option for sports fans.
If you’re looking for a way to access ESPN, consider subscribing to a traditional cable or satellite provider or exploring alternative streaming services that offer ESPN, such as Hulu with Live TV or Sling TV.
For sports fans who want additional exclusive content, original programming, and on-demand access to sports news and analysis, ESPN+ is a great option. Just remember, ESPN+ is not a replacement for ESPN, but rather a complementary service that enhances your sports viewing experience.
What is ESPN+ and how is it different from traditional ESPN?
ESPN+ is a streaming service offered by ESPN that provides access to exclusive sports content, original programming, and on-demand content. It is different from traditional ESPN in that it is a separate subscription-based service that does not provide access to live broadcasts of ESPN’s linear TV channels.
ESPN’s linear TV channels, such as ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU, are only available through a traditional cable or satellite TV subscription. ESPN+ is a separate entity that requires a separate subscription, and it does not provide access to the same content as the linear TV channels. This means that if you want to watch live sports broadcasts on ESPN, you will need a traditional TV subscription in addition to an ESPN+ subscription.
Why can’t I watch ESPN with my ESPN+ subscription?
The main reason you can’t watch ESPN with your ESPN+ subscription is that ESPN+ is a separate entity from ESPN’s linear TV channels. ESPN+ is designed to provide exclusive content that is not available on the linear TV channels, such as original documentaries, sports analysis programs, and on-demand content.
Because ESPN+ is a separate service, it does not have the rights to broadcast live sports events that are shown on the linear TV channels. This means that if you want to watch live sports on ESPN, you will need a traditional TV subscription that includes the ESPN channel.
What kind of content can I watch on ESPN+?
ESPN+ provides access to a wide range of exclusive sports content, including original documentaries, sports analysis programs, and on-demand content. This includes programming from popular ESPN personalities, as well as exclusive rights to certain sports leagues and events.
In addition to original content, ESPN+ also provides access to a library of on-demand content, including sports documentaries, classic games, and news programs. However, it’s important to note that ESPN+ does not provide access to live sports broadcasts on ESPN’s linear TV channels.
Can I watch ESPN+ on my TV?
Yes, ESPN+ is available on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices such as Roku and Chromecast. You can download the ESPN app on your device and sign in with your ESPN+ subscription to access the content.
However, it’s important to note that you will need to authenticate your subscription through a participating TV provider or by signing up for a free trial. Once you’ve authenticated your subscription, you’ll be able to access the ESPN+ content on your device.
How much does ESPN+ cost?
ESPN+ is a relatively affordable streaming service, with a monthly subscription cost of $4.99. You can also sign up for an annual subscription for $49.99, which works out to be a better value if you plan to keep the service for a year or more.
It’s worth noting that ESPN+ is also available as part of a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu, which can be a good option if you’re interested in accessing content from all three services.
Can I cancel my ESPN+ subscription at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your ESPN+ subscription at any time. Because ESPN+ is a month-to-month subscription service, you can cancel your subscription without penalty and you will not be charged again.
To cancel your subscription, simply go to the ESPN website, sign in to your account, and follow the prompts to cancel your subscription. You will still be able to access the content until the end of your billing cycle.
Is ESPN+ worth the cost?
Whether or not ESPN+ is worth the cost depends on your individual viewing habits and interests. If you’re a big sports fan and you’re interested in accessing exclusive content, such as original documentaries and on-demand programming, then ESPN+ may be a good value for you.
However, if you’re primarily interested in watching live sports on ESPN’s linear TV channels, then ESPN+ may not be worth the cost. In that case, you may want to consider a traditional TV subscription that includes the ESPN channel. Ultimately, the value of ESPN+ will depend on your individual needs and preferences.