What CNN All Access gives you

CNN All Access is CNN's streaming subscription service that lets you watch live CNN programming and on-demand content through the CNN app or website. You get access to live feeds from CNN's cable channel, breaking news alerts, and a library of shows and documentaries you can watch whenever you want. The service costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year if you pay annually.

The subscription includes the same live coverage you would see on cable television — anchors, breaking news, and scheduled programming — but streamed to your phone, tablet, or computer. You also get access to CNN's full archive of shows like Anderson Cooper 360, The Lead, and Reliable Sources, plus documentaries and special reports that CNN produces.

CNN All Access does not include local news channels or other Turner networks like HBO, TNT, or TBS. If you want those, you would need a different subscription or a cable package.

Key Takeaways

  • CNN All Access costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year and includes live CNN programming plus on-demand shows and documentaries.
  • You can watch on the CNN app, CNN.com, or through the CNN+ app depending on your device and location.
  • The service requires you to create a CNN account and sign in to watch, even if you already have a cable login.
  • You can cancel your subscription at any time through your account settings without penalty.
  • CNN All Access does not include local news, other cable networks, or premium channels like HBO.

How to set up CNN All Access

To start, go to CNN.com or read the CNN app on your phone or tablet. Look for the subscription option or the "Sign In" button. You will need to create a CNN account with an email address and password if you do not already have one.

Once you have an account, select the CNN All Access plan. You will enter payment information — CNN accepts major credit cards and some digital payment methods. After your payment processes, you can start watching when ready. Your subscription renews automatically each month or year depending on which plan you chose.

If you already have a cable subscription that includes CNN, you may be able to sign in with your cable provider credentials instead of paying for CNN All Access separately. Check the CNN website to see if your cable provider is listed as a partner.

What devices you can watch on

CNN All Access works on most smartphones and tablets through the CNN app, which is available on iOS and Android. You can also watch on a web browser at CNN.com from any computer or laptop.

For television, you can use the CNN app if your smart TV has it, or you can cast or mirror your phone or computer screen to a TV. The availability of the CNN app on specific TV platforms (Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, etc.) varies by region and changes over time, so check your TV's app store to see if it is available.

You can only stream on one device at a time with a standard subscription. If you try to watch on two devices simultaneously, the second stream will stop.

Cancelling your subscription

You can cancel CNN All Access at any time through your account settings on CNN.com or in the CNN app. Go to your account, find the subscription section, and select the option to cancel. Your access will continue until the end of your current billing period — CNN does not refund partial months or years.

If you cancel mid-month, you will still have access for the rest of that month. Your payment method will not be charged again after your current period ends.

Comparing CNN All Access to other news streaming options

Several other news organizations offer their own streaming services. Fox News has Fox News+, which costs $7.99 per month or $79.99 per year and includes live Fox News programming plus on-demand shows. MSNBC offers a streaming option through its website and app with similar pricing and content structure.

The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal both offer news subscriptions that include digital access to articles, analysis, and some video content, but they focus on written journalism rather than live television. These typically cost between $15 and $30 per month depending on the plan.

If you want multiple news sources, some cable streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV include CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, and other channels as part of a larger package. These cost more per month but give you access to many channels beyond news.

Technical issues and troubleshooting

If you cannot sign in, first check that you are using the correct email and password for your CNN account. If you forgot your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the sign-in page to reset it. Make sure you are using a supported browser or the latest version of the CNN app.

If the video is buffering or stopping, check your internet connection speed. CNN All Access requires a stable connection; streaming quality adjusts automatically based on your speed. Try closing other apps or browser tabs that might be using bandwidth, or move closer to your Wi-Fi router.

If you are still having problems, CNN's support page on their website lists common issues and solutions. You can also contact CNN customer support through the app or website for help with account or billing questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch CNN All Access without creating an account?

No, you must create a CNN account and sign in to watch CNN All Access. This is true even if you have a cable subscription that includes CNN. The account is how CNN tracks your subscription and billing.

Does CNN All Access include international news or just U.S. news?

CNN All Access includes CNN International programming as well as CNN's U.S. coverage. You get access to shows and reports from CNN's global newsrooms, though the exact mix of international content available on-demand varies.

What happens if I don't use my subscription for a while?

Your subscription will continue to renew and charge your payment method each month or year unless you cancel it. CNN does not pause subscriptions or offer refunds for unused time, so cancel if you do not plan to watch.

Can I share my CNN All Access login with family members?

CNN's terms of service state that subscriptions are for personal use only. Sharing login credentials with people outside your household may violate the terms. CNN can disable accounts that show signs of unauthorized sharing.

Is there a free trial for CNN All Access?

CNN occasionally offers free trial periods, but these are not always available. Check CNN.com to see if a trial is currently being offered in your region. Any trial period will end and convert to a paid subscription unless you cancel before the trial ends.