How to Watch News 12 on Verizon Fios: Access, Channels, and Viewing Tips

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Understanding News 12 and Its Availability on Verizon Fios

News 12 is a 24-hour regional news network serving the New York tri-state area, including Westchester, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and select boroughs of New York City. It delivers hyperlocal news, weather, and community updates, making it a trusted source for millions of viewers seeking timely, relevant information about their neighborhoods. Historically, News 12 was exclusive to Optimum cable subscribers, but as of late 2019, a partnership between Verizon and Altice USA made it available to Verizon Fios customers as well [1] . This change provides Fios subscribers access to the same local news coverage previously unavailable to them.

Which Channel Is News 12 On for Verizon Fios Customers?

The channel number for News 12 on Verizon Fios depends on your region. For Westchester , News 12 is typically found on channels 29 (SD) and 529 (HD) . For Long Island , the channel numbers are 30 (SD) and 530 (HD) [2] . In other parts of the Fios service area, such as the Lower Hudson Valley and New Jersey, News 12 can be found on channel 535 (HD) [3] . These channels deliver the same in-depth, 24-hour local news that has made News 12 a staple for regional viewers.

It’s important to note that the exact channel allocation may vary slightly by municipality and Fios package. If you do not see News 12 on the channels listed, you can:

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  • Use your Fios remote to access the on-screen guide and search for “News 12” by name.
  • Check Verizon’s official channel lineup by logging into your account on the Verizon Fios website or contacting customer support for your region.

This approach ensures you receive the most accurate and up-to-date channel information for your specific location.

Step-by-Step Guidance to Access News 12 on Fios

To tune in to News 12 on Verizon Fios, follow these steps:

  1. Turn on your Fios TV and ensure your set-top box is functioning properly.
  2. Using your remote, enter channel 29 or 529 for Westchester, 30 or 530 for Long Island, or 535 for other regions such as New Jersey or the Lower Hudson Valley.
  3. If none of these channels display News 12, use the Fios on-screen guide’s search feature. Type in “News 12” and review the listed channels.
  4. If you still cannot locate the channel, contact Verizon Fios customer support for your region. They can provide real-time assistance and information specific to your service address.

For customers who are new to Fios or have recently changed their package, channel assignments may have shifted. In these cases, it is especially important to use the search function or reach out directly to customer support for clarification.

Regional Coverage and Program Variations

News 12 operates several localized feeds, ensuring viewers receive news relevant to their particular county or borough. For example, News 12 Westchester focuses on stories within Westchester County, while News 12 Long Island covers Nassau and Suffolk counties. Other regions, such as New Jersey, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Connecticut, have their own dedicated News 12 channels [4] . The availability of specific regional programming depends on your Fios subscription and location. If you reside near a border between coverage areas, you may have access to more than one News 12 feed, providing a broader perspective on local news events.

Some Fios packages may also include News 12+ (also known as News 12 Plus), which offers a blend of regional news, traffic, and weather coverage. This channel is typically available in the same areas and may be assigned a different channel number, such as channel 61 on some systems [5] . To verify this option, consult your on-screen guide or contact Verizon directly.

Alternative Ways to Access News 12 Content

If you are unable to access News 12 through your television, there are alternative methods to stay informed:

  • News12.com: Visit the official News 12 website for live streams, news articles, weather updates, and video clips. Select your region for the most relevant content. Please note that some live broadcasts may require authentication as a Fios or Optimum subscriber.
  • News 12 Apps: Download the News 12 app from your device’s app store. These apps allow you to watch live news, receive breaking news alerts, and view video clips on-demand. Registration with your Fios credentials may be required for full access.
  • Social Media: Follow News 12’s official accounts on platforms like Twitter and Facebook for headlines, live streams, and community updates.

For viewers who frequently travel or live part-time outside the News 12 broadcast area, these digital tools are especially valuable. However, access to certain live programming may be restricted based on location or subscription status.

What If You Can’t Find News 12 on Your Fios Lineup?

While News 12 is now widely available to Fios customers in the New York tri-state region, there are rare instances where the channel may not appear as expected. This can occur if:

  • Your Fios subscription is not up-to-date or does not include the regional news package.
  • There has been a recent channel realignment or system update in your area.
  • Your TV or set-top box settings have been inadvertently changed.

To resolve these issues, you can:

  • Restart your Fios set-top box to refresh the channel lineup.
  • Access the Fios account portal online for the latest channel list.
  • Call Verizon Fios customer service and request assistance for accessing News 12 in your area. Be prepared to provide your zip code and account information for precise support.

In most cases, these steps will restore your access to News 12. If a technical problem persists, requesting a service visit may be necessary.

Benefits of Watching News 12 on Verizon Fios

There are several advantages for Fios subscribers who tune in to News 12:

  • Hyperlocal Coverage: News 12 focuses on stories that directly impact your community, including local government, schools, public health, and weather emergencies.
  • 24/7 Access: The channel provides round-the-clock news, ensuring you never miss important updates or breaking news events.
  • Multiple Access Points: Whether on TV, online, or through mobile apps, News 12 keeps you connected.
  • Trusted Reputation: With decades of experience serving the tri-state area, News 12 has earned numerous industry awards for its journalism and commitment to local reporting [4] .

For residents who prioritize staying informed about their neighborhoods, News 12 remains an indispensable resource.

Key Takeaways and Actionable Steps

If you are a Verizon Fios customer seeking News 12, remember:

  • Check channels 29/529 (Westchester) , 30/530 (Long Island) , or 535 (Other Regions/HD) for News 12 broadcasts.
  • Use your on-screen guide or search feature if these channels do not work.
  • Visit News12.com or download the News 12 app for live and on-demand coverage if TV access is unavailable.
  • Contact Verizon Fios customer support for assistance if you cannot find the channel, providing your location for precise guidance.

By following these steps, you can access timely hyperlocal news, no matter your preferred viewing method.

References

[1] The Business Council of Westchester (2019). News12 Will Now be Carried on Verizon’s Fios Cable System.

[2] Patch (2019). News 12 Comes To Verizon Fios TV Lineup.

[3] lohud (2019). Verizon to add News 12 to channel lineup as company drops FIOS1 News.

[4] News 12 Connecticut (2024). About News 12.

[5] Wikipedia (2024). News 12+.