Verizon offers a robust TV experience through its Fios service, which leverages a 100% fiber-optic network for superior picture quality and reliability. Whether you prefer the traditional set-top box experience, streaming on your smart TV, or watching on the go with your mobile device, Verizon has you covered.
Let's dive into how you can make the most of your Verizon TV service!
Ready to unlock your Verizon TV experience?
Have you just gotten Fios TV installed, or are you looking to expand how and where you watch your favorite shows? Excellent! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you're enjoying your Verizon TV in no time, whether it's on your big screen, tablet, or smartphone.
Step 1: Confirm Your Verizon Fios TV Subscription and Equipment
Before you do anything else, it's crucial to confirm you have an active Verizon Fios TV subscription and the necessary equipment.
Sub-heading 1.1: Verify Your Fios TV Package
Verizon offers several Fios TV packages, each with a different number of channels and features.
Your Fios TV: A good starting point with 125+ channels, often customizable.
More Fios TV: Offers 300+ channels, including popular basic cable and regional sports.
The Most Fios TV: The most comprehensive package with 425+ channels, including premium networks like MGM+, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, and STARZ.
You can check your current package by logging into your My Verizon account online or through the My Verizon app. Knowing your package helps you understand which channels and features are available to you.
Sub-heading 1.2: Identify Your Verizon Equipment
For a complete Fios TV experience, you'll typically have:
An Optical Network Terminal (ONT): This is the fiber-optic "modem" that converts the fiber signal into something your home devices can use. It's usually installed on the exterior or in a utility area of your home.
A Fios Router: This connects to the ONT and distributes internet and TV signals throughout your home.
Fios TV Set-Top Boxes: These are the primary devices for watching TV on your main televisions. Verizon offers different models, including 4K compatible ones.
Fios TV Voice Remote: Your primary tool for navigating channels, menus, and even using voice commands.
Make sure all your equipment is properly connected and powered on.
Step 2: Setting Up Your Primary TV with a Set-Top Box
This is the classic way to watch Fios TV and offers the most features.
Sub-heading 2.1: Connecting Your Set-Top Box to Your TV
Most modern setups will use an HDMI cable.
Connect the HDMI cable: Plug one end into the "HDMI Out" port on your Fios TV set-top box and the other end into an available "HDMI In" port on your television. Note the HDMI input number (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2) on your TV.
Connect the coaxial cable: This cable carries the TV signal from your wall outlet to the "Cable In" or "RF In" port on your set-top box. Ensure it's screwed in tightly.
Connect the power cord: Plug the power cord from the set-top box into a working electrical outlet.
Power on: Turn on your TV and your Fios set-top box.
Sub-heading 2.2: Selecting the Correct TV Input
Using your TV's remote, press the "Input" or "Source" button. Select the HDMI input that corresponds to where you plugged in your Fios set-top box (e.g., HDMI 1). You should now see the Fios TV interface.
Sub-heading 2.3: Pairing Your Fios TV Voice Remote
Your Fios TV Voice Remote usually pairs automatically during initial setup. If not, follow the on-screen prompts or consult your set-top box's user guide. You'll likely need to point the remote at the set-top box and press a specific button combination. Once paired, you can use voice commands to change channels, search for shows, and control your DVR!
Sub-heading 2.4: Navigating the Interactive Media Guide
The Fios TV set-top box features an Interactive Media Guide.
Press the "Guide" button: This will bring up the channel lineup.
Browse channels: Use the arrow keys on your remote to scroll through channels and view upcoming programming.
Watch a show: Highlight the program you want to watch and press "OK" or "Select."
Access On Demand: Press the "On Demand" button on your remote or navigate to the "On Demand" section through the main menu to browse a vast library of movies and shows.
Manage DVR: If you have Multi-Room DVR service, you can access your recordings through the "My Stuff" or "DVR" section of the guide.
Step 3: Watching TV with the Fios TV Apps (At Home and On the Go)
Verizon offers two key apps to enhance your viewing experience: the Fios TV Home App and the Fios TV Mobile App.
Sub-heading 3.1: Fios TV Home App (For Streaming Devices within Your Home)
The Fios TV Home app allows you to watch Fios TV on compatible streaming devices like Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV within your home, connected to your Fios router. This is great for secondary TVs without a set-top box.
Download the Fios TV Home App: Search for "Fios TV Home" in the app store of your streaming device (Apple TV App Store or Amazon Appstore).
Ensure connection: Make sure your streaming device is connected to your home Fios Wi-Fi network.
Log in: Open the app and log in using your Verizon.com username and password associated with your Fios TV account.
Start streaming: Once logged in, you can browse live TV, On Demand content, and even your DVR recordings. This app provides a seamless extension of your Fios TV service.
Sub-heading 3.2: Fios TV Mobile App (For Mobile Devices Anywhere)
The Fios TV Mobile app is your mobile companion, allowing you to watch Fios TV on your smartphone or tablet virtually anywhere you have an internet connection.
Download the Fios TV Mobile App: Search for "Fios TV Mobile" in the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS).
Log in: Open the app and sign in with your Verizon.com username and password.
Explore content:
Home: See prominent and recommended live TV and On Demand content.
Guide: Access the full TV guide for live content.
My Stuff: Find your DVR recordings, purchased/rented content, and downloads. You can also manage DVR recordings here.
Browse: Discover content organized by categories like Featured, Shows, Movies, and Networks.
Search: Find specific titles, channels, or actors.
Stream live or On Demand: Select a program from the guide or browse sections and tap to watch.
Download content (select titles): For some On Demand content, you might have the option to download it for offline viewing, which is perfect for long flights or areas with limited connectivity.
Data-free streaming (for Verizon Wireless customers outside CA): If you're a Verizon Wireless postpay 4G LTE customer (and not in California), streaming on the Fios TV Mobile app is often data-free, meaning it won't count against your data allowance.
Step 4: Maximizing Your Verizon TV Experience
Beyond basic viewing, Verizon Fios TV offers several features to enhance your enjoyment.
Sub-heading 4.1: Multi-Room DVR Service
If you have Fios Multi-Room DVR Enhanced or Premium service, you can:
Record multiple shows simultaneously: Record up to 6 or 12 shows at once, depending on your DVR plan.
Watch recorded content anywhere in your home: Start a show in one room, pause it, and pick it up exactly where you left off in another room with a connected set-top box.
Stream DVR recordings on the Fios TV Mobile app: Access most of your DVR recordings from anywhere with an internet connection.
Manage recordings remotely: Use the Fios TV Mobile app to schedule new recordings or delete old ones from your smartphone or tablet.
Sub-heading 4.2: On Demand and Pay Per View (PPV)
Vast library: Access thousands of movies and shows On Demand, many of which are included with your subscription or available for rent/purchase.
PPV events: Order live sports, concerts, or other special events through your set-top box or sometimes through the Fios TV Mobile app.
Sub-heading 4.3: 4K UHD Content
If you have a 4K compatible TV and a Fios TV One set-top box, you can enjoy stunning 4K Ultra HD content. Look for 4K channels or On Demand titles that support this resolution.
Sub-heading 4.4: Parental Controls
Verizon provides robust parental controls to manage what your family can watch:
On your set-top box: Use your Fios remote to go to Menu > Settings > Parental Controls. Here, you can restrict content based on ratings, specific channels, or even set a PIN to prevent unauthorized viewing or purchases.
Through the My Verizon App/Website: You can also manage some parental control settings, especially related to internet access for devices, through your My Verizon account.
Sub-heading 4.5: Voice Control with the Fios TV Voice Remote
Simply press the microphone button on your remote and speak your command.
Examples: "Go to CNN," "Find movies starring Tom Hanks," "Record this show," "What's on tonight?"
Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best service, occasional hiccups can occur. Here are quick tips for common issues.
Sub-heading 5.1: No Picture or Sound
Check connections: Ensure all HDMI, coaxial, and power cables are securely plugged in to both your TV and set-top box.
Correct input: Verify your TV is on the correct HDMI input.
Power cycle: Unplug your set-top box's power cord, wait 10-15 seconds, then plug it back in. Allow a few minutes for it to restart. You can also try power cycling your Fios router.
Mute button: Make sure your TV or Fios remote isn't accidentally muted, and volume is turned up.
Sub-heading 5.2: App Buffering or Crashing
Internet connection: Ensure your Fios internet is working properly. Run a speed test.
Router restart: Unplug your Fios router for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
App restart: Close and reopen the Fios TV app.
Device restart: Restart your mobile device or streaming device.
App updates: Make sure the Fios TV app is updated to the latest version.
Clear app cache (Android/Fire TV): In your device's settings, find the Fios TV app and clear its cache.
Sub-heading 5.3: Remote Not Working
Check batteries: Replace the batteries in your Fios TV Voice Remote.
Re-pair remote: Follow the instructions in your set-top box's user guide to re-pair the remote.
Line of sight: Ensure there's no obstruction between the remote and the set-top box.
By following these steps, you should be well on your way to enjoying all that Verizon Fios TV has to offer!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to set up my new Verizon Fios TV service?
To set up new Fios TV service, a Verizon technician will typically install the Optical Network Terminal (ONT), Fios Router, and necessary wiring. They will then connect your set-top boxes to your TVs and activate the service. You'll simply need to ensure your TVs are on the correct input and your remote is paired.
How to watch Fios TV on my mobile device?
Download the "Fios TV Mobile" app from your device's app store (Google Play or Apple App Store). Log in with your Verizon.com username and password, and you can then stream live TV, On Demand, and DVR recordings.
How to access On Demand content on Verizon Fios TV?
Press the "On Demand" button on your Fios TV remote, or navigate to the "On Demand" section within the Interactive Media Guide. From the Fios TV apps, look for the "On Demand" or "Browse" sections.
How to record shows with Verizon Fios DVR?
With a Fios Multi-Room DVR, simply highlight a show in the Interactive Media Guide and select the "Record" option. You can choose to record a single episode or an entire series. You can also schedule recordings via the Fios TV Mobile app.
How to troubleshoot a "No Signal" message on my TV?
First, ensure your TV is set to the correct HDMI input (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2) where your Fios set-top box is connected. Then, check all cable connections (HDMI, coaxial, power) to the set-top box and TV. Finally, try power cycling your set-top box by unplugging it for 10-15 seconds and plugging it back in.
How to pair my Fios TV Voice Remote?
Typically, the remote pairs automatically. If not, point the remote at your set-top box and follow the on-screen instructions, which often involve pressing specific buttons like "Menu" and "OK" simultaneously until a pairing message appears. Consult your set-top box's user guide for specific steps.
How to use the Fios TV Home app on my smart TV?
The Fios TV Home app is specifically for compatible streaming devices like Apple TV and Amazon Fire TV connected to your home Wi-Fi. Download the app on your streaming device, ensure it's on your Fios home network, and log in with your Verizon credentials.
How to control parental settings on Fios TV?
Using your Fios TV remote, go to Menu > Settings > Parental Controls. Here you can set a PIN, block channels, restrict content by rating, and manage purchase controls. Some router-based parental controls for internet access can also be managed through My Verizon online.
How to find 4K content on Verizon Fios?
If you have a 4K-compatible Fios TV One set-top box and a 4K TV, look for designated 4K channels (often in the 1400s) or browse the On Demand section for titles available in 4K UHD.
How to improve Fios TV app streaming quality?
Ensure you have a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection. If on mobile data, check your signal strength. Try restarting your Fios router and the streaming device/mobile device. If issues persist, clear the app's cache or reinstall it.