Sling brings live TV channels to an Android phone, tablet or TV without a cable contract. Plans are customizable and can be paused at any time. The package includes 50 hours of DVR storage and a library of 120K+ movies and shows On Demand, with live sports from the NFL to NASCAR.
Freestream is free, channel plans are paid
The app itself costs nothing to install, and Google Play shows no ads. It does list in-app purchases, which cover the subscription side. Sling sells customizable channel packages with no long-term contracts, and the developer says you can pause or change service at any time.
Sling Freestream is the free route. It gives live and On Demand TV with no credit card required, including full seasons of some shows and free movies. Paid subscribers also see what is trending on the service.
Sports, 22 languages and 50 hours of DVR
Sports coverage is a main selling point. The app carries college basketball, NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, UFC, boxing, cricket, college football, MLS, golf and NASCAR. News, lifestyle, kids' shows and entertainment channels round out the lineup.
International programming runs in 22 languages, including Spanish, Hindi and Arabic. On Demand lists over 120K shows and movies, and you can rent new movies or buy live pay-per-view events. DVR storage of 50 hours is included, with an Unlimited DVR upgrade available.
Version 9.5.169 and the Android 7.0 floor
The current version is 9.5.169, last updated on October 20, 2026. The app first appeared on February 8, 2015, so it has a long maintenance history. It needs Android 7.0 or newer.
On Android TV and Google TV, Sling uses the AccessibilityService API for directional remote navigation. The developer states it does not use that API to collect, store or share personal data. The app also includes Nielsen measurement software for market research.
Sling pros and cons
Pros
- No ads listed on Google Play
- Free Freestream tier needs no credit card
- 50 hours of DVR storage included
- Programming in 22 languages
- Broad live sports list including NFL, NBA and UFC
Cons
- In-app purchases are needed for paid channel plans
- Includes Nielsen measurement software
- Channel pricing and plan contents are not listed in the app
- Teen content rating
Is Sling safe?
Sling is published by Sling TV. It carries no ads and a Teen content rating, though it does offer in-app purchases. The developer states its accessibility API use does not collect personal data. The app includes Nielsen measurement software, so check the privacy link the developer provides.
How to install Sling
- Press the Google Play button on this page.
- Check the listing in the Play Store and press Install.
- Open Sling when the install finishes. Updates arrive through Google Play.
