T-Mobile shook up the streaming wars in 2020 with the launch of its own cable-alternative service, TVision. Available exclusively for T-Mobile and Sprint customers at launch, this guide will show you how TVision works, which channels are included, and how to install it on your devices.
As an avid cord-cutter myself, I decided to take TVision for a test drive on both Firestick and Android TV. With competitive channel packages starting at just $10/month, T-Mobile is poised to attract a lot of cord-cutting households.
TVision Packages Breakdown: Channels, Pricing, and More
TVision offers 4 core packages, ranging from $10/month to $60/month depending on your desired channel lineup:
📺 TVision Vibe
- $10/month (or $84 per year)
- 30+ channels like AMC, BET, Comedy Central, MTV, Paramount Network
- No sports, local, or premium channels
- Best for: Movies & entertainment
📺 TVision Live
- $40/month
- 30+ channels including ABC, ESPN, TNT, CNN, TBS, Discovery
- Local broadcasts available in some markets
- Best for: Nationwide cable staples
📺 TVision Live+
- $50/month
- 50+ channels adding NFL Network, SEC Network, ACC Network
- Regional sports networks in select markets
- Best for: Sports fans
📺 TVision Live Zone
- $60/month
- 65+ channels with ESPNU, MLB Network, NBA TV
- More regional sports and local channels
- Best for: Local programming
The exact channel lineup and pricing varies by location. T-Mobile customers can enter their zip code on the TVision website to see specifics for their area.
All packages include the ability to watch on up to 3 devices simultaneously and a cloud DVR with 20 hours of storage (upgradable to 100 hours for $10/month).
Here‘s how the plans stack up against competitors like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV in terms of base pricing:
| Streaming Service | Price Per Month | Number of Channels |
|---|---|---|
| TVision Vibe | $10 | 30+ |
| TVision Live | $40 | 30+ |
| TVision Live+ | $50 | 50+ |
| TVision Live Zone | $60 | 65+ |
| YouTube TV | $65 | 85+ |
| Hulu + Live TV | $65 | 75+ |
Based on the channel count, TVision delivers a very solid value compared to the other major players. The entry-level Vibe plan is especially compelling for under $15 per month.
According to T-Mobile‘s Q3 2020 earnings report, TVision had already attracted over 300,000 subscribers within the first month of launch. Analysts expectcontinued growth in 2021 as T-Mobile expands standalone options for non-wireless customers.
Next, let‘s walk through installing the TVision app on your streaming devices.
How to Install TVision on Firestick & Fire TV
Thanks to availability on the Amazon Appstore, you can add TVision to your Firestick or Fire TV in just a few minutes.
Here are step-by-step instructions:
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From the Firestick home screen, go to the "Search" option and type in "TVision".
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Select the "TVision" app from the search results.
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Click "Download" or "Get" to begin installing the TVision app.
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The installation process will take 1-2 minutes to finish. Once done, press the home button on your Firestick remote.
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In the menu ribbon, go to "Apps" to see a list of all installed applications.
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Find TVision in your apps list and hover over it. Select "Move" from the pop-up menu.
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Use the navigation arrows on your remote to move TVision to your preferred spot on the home screen.
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Once positioned, simply select the TVision icon to launch the app.
- Login with your T-Mobile credentials and choose your desired package to start streaming live TV through TVision.
And that‘s it! Within a few minutes you can have TVision installed and ready to use on your Firestick or Fire TV.
Now let‘s look at adding TVision to an Android TV device like the NVIDIA Shield or Xiaomi Mi Box.
How to Install TVision on Android TV Devices
The TVision app is readily available on the Google Play Store for all Android TV models. Just follow these instructions to download it:
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From the Android TV home screen, launch the Google Play Store.
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Click on the Search option and type in "TVision".
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Select the TVision app from the search results.
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Click "Install" to download TVision onto your Android TV.
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The install process takes about 1 minute. Once finished, go back to the Android TV home screen.
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Move to the right and select "Add app to favorites" (the plus icon).
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Scroll down the apps list and select TVision. This adds it to your favorites row.
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Use the navigation remote to move TVision to your desired position on the home screen.
- Launch the TVision app and sign into your T-Mobile account to start live streaming!
The app experience across platforms is very similar. You get the same interface for browsing channels, listings, and recording DVR.
Now let‘s explore some key features and details about T-Mobile‘s TVision service.
TVision Features and User Experience
Based on my firsthand testing, here are some key things to know about TVision:
📺 Streaming quality
The video quality is solid, streaming at 60fps with minimal buffering. Picture is sharp on both mobile and big screen.
📺 App interface
The interface is smooth and intuitive. Easy to browse channels, view current/upcoming shows, and manage DVR recordings.
📺 Supported devices
TVision is available across iOS, Android, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, and SmartCast TVs.
📺 Channel surfing
Changing channels is super quick, comparable to traditional cable TV.
📺 Local channel availability
Local channel access depends on your location. Big markets get major local broadcasts.
📺 Cloud DVR
The cloud DVR works great for recording and watching shows later. Upgrade to 100 hours for $10/month.
📺 Account management
You can view billing details, change packages, add channels like HBO, and manage your T-Mobile account all in one place.
Here is a quick pros vs cons breakdown of TVision based on my experience:
TVision Pros 👍
- Inexpensive pricing compared to competitors
- Taxes and fees included (no surprises)
- Works on most popular streaming devices
- Cloud DVR included
- Easy to use interface
TVision Cons 👎
- Local channel availability limited in some areas
- Fewer channels than YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV
- Must be a T-Mobile cell customer
- Add-ons (HBO, Showtime, etc) cost extra
Overall I would rate the TVision service a 8/10. The channel packages deliver good value and the streaming performance is solid. Lack of standalone option for non-T-Mobile customers is the main drawback currently.
Troubleshooting TVision Installation Issues
If you run into any problems setting up TVision on your device, here are some troubleshooting tips:
Can‘t find TVision app:
- On Firestick, go to Search and type in "TVision" exactly as shown. On Android TV, search the Google Play Store.
App crashed or won‘t open:
- Uninstall and reinstall the latest TVision app version. Reboot device if issues persist.
Prompted to upgrade T-Mobile plan:
- Double check that you‘re subscribed to an eligible postpaid wireless plan for TVision access. Prepaid plans don‘t qualify.
Forgot T-Mobile login:
- You can recover your username or reset your password directly through the T-Mobile account portal.
Error playing DVR recordings:
- Check internet connection speed. A minimum of 3 Mbps is recommended for DVR streaming.
Reach out to T-Mobile Support for any other issues getting TVision up and running.
Now that you know how to install it and what to expect, let‘s answer some common questions about TVision.
TVision FAQs from Streamers
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about T-Mobile‘s live TV service:
How much does TVision cost?
TVision packages range from $10/month to $60/month depending on channels included. Taxes and fees are built into the monthly price.
What channels are available on TVision?
TVision provides 30+ to 65+ channels depending on your package, including major networks like ESPN, TNT, TBS, Discovery, AMC, CNN, and more. Local channels available in select markets.
Do I need to be a T-Mobile customer to get TVision?
Yes, TVision is currently only available for T-Mobile and Sprint postpaid wireless subscribers. Standalone streaming options are coming soon for non-customers according to T-Mobile.
What devices can I watch TVision on?
You can stream TVision on iOS, Android, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, SmartCast TVs, and any device running Android TV OS.
Does TVision offer local channels?
Local channel availability varies based on your location. Those in major TV markets are more likely to get local feeds through TVision.
How many people can stream at once with TVision?
TVision supports simultaneous streaming on up to 3 devices from the same account. Great for households!
The Bottom Line on T-Mobile‘s TVision
T-Mobile has come out swinging in the streaming wars with its attractively priced TVision service. While the package options may offer fewer channels than YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, the lower pricing makes it easy to save money as a cord-cutter.
The availability of major sports networks, plus solid DVR features will appeal to cord-cutting sports fans. TVision has plenty of room for growth as T-Mobile expands standalone options beyond just its wireless subscribers.
Overall TVision delivers great bang for your buck if you want live TV streaming on a budget. With smooth performance across devices, it‘s easy to recommend – especially at the entry $10 per month Vibe tier.
To continue optimizing your streaming setup, be sure to check out my guides on services like Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, and Plex. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
