Can I Stream Live Sports on My Android Device?
One of the many perks of owning an Android device is being able to stream live sports. Thanks to the latest mobile technology, sports fans now have unparalleled access to games happening all over the world. However, with all that information at your fingertips, you may be curious about how to get in the game, virtually speaking.
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about live sports streaming.
How can I stream live sports on my Android device?
To access live sports streaming on your Android device, you will need to download an app through the Google Play store or find a website that can connect you to an online broadcast of the sporting event you want to watch. There are many free and paid options currently available to watch football, soccer, basketball, tennis and other favorite sports.
What are the most popular apps for streaming live sports on my Android device?
Sport Live Stream (from LuckyAppz): Access an enormous selection of sporting events through the NFL, NBA, NHL, Bundesliga and Premier League. The app updates the links to the streams automatically every few minutes for a smooth, interruption-free user experience. Sports Live Stream has been called "simple," "attractive" and "impressive."
SPORT TV Original (SportOnNet co): Stream live sports and the latest news and scores. SPORT TV Original not only streams mainstream sports such as soccer, hockey, tennis, golf and basketball, but also cycling, rugby, handball and even ping pong, with more sports coming soon. The user interface is clean and easy to navigate.
SopCast: Watch and broadcast video and audio files. SopCast offers a broad choice of channels, organized by categories. Many users like SopCast because it supports P2P (peer-to-peer) technology, giving anyone the ability to start their own channel and broadcast their own content.
Do any television stations offer apps for live sports streaming?
WatchESPN (ESPN Inc) offers live streaming of events from the ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3 and ESPNU networks. Users can enjoy access to events from the NBA, MBL, U.S. Open, The Masters, college football and basketball, Grand Slam Tennis and Euro 2012 Soccer — as well as original ESPN programming like SportsCenter, Pardon the Interruption and SportsNation. WatchESPN is user-friendly, making it easy to search for your favorite teams, leagues and shows.
CBS Sports (CBS Interactive, Inc.) features a live stream of video of top sports, including NCAA and SEC football games. Scores of games that cannot be streamed live are updated very quickly. CBS Sports also offers on-demand access to game highlights, analysis and original programming, as well as a live Twitter feed of commentary from players, writers, analysts and bloggers.
How much do these apps cost?
The apps mentioned on this page are free of charge through the Google Play Store.
Do I need Flash in order to watch games on my Android device?
Yes, in order to watch live sports on your Android device, you will need to download and install Adobe Flash Player, the leading video and animation player. Downloading Adobe Flash Player is free, quick and easy. The Flash Player is certified for use on a large number of device and OS combinations listed here.
Do I need a cable subscription for any of these apps?
Yes, to access WatchESPN’s live stream, you’ll need a subscription through a participating cable provider (e.g., AT&T U-verse, Cox, Time Warner Cable or Verizon). The app will prompt you to enter your TV provider, TV subscription user ID and password.
Which websites offer live sports streaming?
You may want to check out Ustream, FirstRow Sports and Stream2Watch.
Can I stream through YouTube?
No, YouTube does not offer live sports streaming.
Are there any additional paid options to consider?
NBA League Pass Mobile allows you to follow the league through live NBA game viewing in addition to on-demand game replays and league highlights. The league Pass costs $16.99 per season and is available through the NBA Game Time mobile app.
MLB.tv offers the At Bat 13 subscription service, which features home and away broadcasts, HD quality video, full game archives and in-game highlights and stats. A season pass is $19.99 and premium subscribers have access to live video feeds.
Does streaming sports live drain my device's battery?
Streaming sports live does limit the life of your battery because it requires you to use your data connection plus the audio and video components of your Android device's hardware.
How can I extend my battery life to last the whole game?
To prolong the life of your battery, try dimming the screen and turning off any unnecessary features (e.g., Bluetooth). Make sure to have a power adapter on hand to juice up your battery when the need arises.
Can I do other things on my Android device while streaming a live game?
Depending on which app or website you choose, you may be able to use other capabilities, such as making or receiving a call or sending a text.
Why not take advantage of your Android device’s live sports streaming capabilities? To turn your Android into your own mini television screen and watch your hometown teams compete in real time, download one of the recommended Google Play apps, or visit one of the suggested websites.
