Learn how to access, set up, and optimize your Hisense TV channel guide. Step-by-step instructions for VIDAA, Google TV, Roku, and Fire TV with troubleshooting tips.
Before diving into the details, here's what you need to know right now. The table below shows exactly how to access the channel guide on each Hisense operating system.
Operating System | Access Method | Remote Button |
|---|---|---|
VIDAA | Press dedicated button or Menu → Guide | Guide or EPG |
Google TV | Home → Live TV → Guide | Home, then navigate |
Android TV | Home → Live Channels → Program Guide | Home, then navigate |
Roku TV | Home → Live TV → Guide | Home, then select Live TV |
Fire TV | Home → Live TV → Guide | Home, then navigate |
Xumo TV | Home → Live TV | Home button |
Quick Identification Test: Look at your home screen. See a "For You" tab with Google branding? That's Google TV. Purple interface with a grid of tiles? Roku TV. Clean vertical menu with an "Apps" button on your remote? That's VIDAA.
5-Step Quick Fix for Guide Issues:
Verify your antenna or cable is connected to the ANT/CABLE IN port
Run a fresh channel scan (Settings → Channels → Auto Scan)
Check that you've selected the correct input source (Antenna vs. Cable)
Power cycle your TV by unplugging for 60 seconds
Update your TV's firmware to the latest version
Need more detail? Jump to the specific section below for your operating system, or continue reading for complete coverage of every aspect of your Hisense TV channel guide.
You just unboxed your new Hisense TV, connected the antenna, and sat down ready to watch your favorite local news. But the remote has multiple buttons, the menus seem endless, and you're not quite sure how to find your channels. Sound familiar?
The Hisense TV channel guide is an interactive on-screen menu that displays program listings for broadcast and cable channels. Also called an Electronic Program Guide (EPG), it shows current and upcoming programs with titles, times, and descriptions, letting you browse schedules and quickly tune to desired content.
Here's why this matters: According to Omdia research data, Hisense shipped 29.14 million TV units globally in 2024, capturing 14% of the worldwide market share. The company has held the number two position in global TV shipments for three consecutive years (2022-2024) and is the only manufacturer to achieve continuous growth for seven straight years. When you're evaluating hisense brand quality, these numbers tell an important story.
But here's what trips up most Hisense owners: the company offers six different operating systems across its TV lineup. Your neighbor's Hisense might work completely differently from yours. VIDAA, Google TV, Android TV, Roku TV, Fire TV, and Xumo TV each have their own interfaces, menu structures, and channel guide features.
This guide covers everything you need to master your Hisense TV channel guide, regardless of which operating system powers your set. You'll learn how to identify your specific OS, set up antenna or cable connections, scan for channels using the exact steps for your platform, navigate the guide efficiently, customize your channel lineup, and troubleshoot common problems when things don't work as expected.
By the time you finish reading, channel guide frustrations will be a thing of the past.
Before following any instructions in this guide, you need to know which operating system your Hisense TV runs. The steps for accessing menus, scanning channels, and configuring settings differ significantly between platforms. Getting this wrong means following instructions that simply won't work on your set.
Hisense partners with multiple software platforms to power their televisions. The experience on a Hisense VIDAA TV is completely different from a Hisense Roku TV, even if both sets have identical screen sizes and similar model numbers. Knowing your OS immediately tells you:
Which app store you'll use for downloading streaming apps
The exact menu path for channel scanning
What features are available (recording, favorites, parental controls)
How to troubleshoot when problems arise
The fastest way to identify your OS is simply looking at the home screen when you turn on your TV.
VIDAA OS: You'll see a clean, vertical menu design that scrolls smoothly. Look for a dedicated "Apps" button on your physical remote control. The settings menu often shows "VIDAA" in system information. In October 2025, VIDAA was officially recognized as the fastest smart TV operating system by WEKA MEDIA PUBLISHING GmbH, achieving the highest overall score (89%) across 11 benchmark tests including a remarkable 0.88-second HDMI input switching time. Additionally, Hisense has committed to up to 8 years of software updates for VIDAA TVs starting with 2025 models, positioning them ahead of competitors on long-term support.
Google TV: The interface displays a prominent "For You" tab with personalized content recommendations. You'll see the Google Play Store icon on the home screen, and your remote likely has a Google Assistant button. The design emphasizes content discovery across multiple streaming services.
Android TV: Similar to Google TV but with a more traditional launcher arrangement. This platform appears on older Hisense models and lacks some of Google TV's newer personalization features. You'll still have access to the Google Play Store.
Roku TV: The purple-themed interface is unmistakable. Channels appear as a grid of square tiles, and the home screen prominently displays "Streaming Channels" for accessing the Roku Channel Store. Your remote will have the Roku logo.
Fire TV: Look for an Amazon-centric dark interface with blue accents. Your remote has an Alexa button, and the home screen promotes Amazon Prime Video content prominently. Fire TV integrates deeply with Alexa voice commands.
Xumo TV: This content-forward interface emphasizes streaming options immediately upon turning on the TV. Xumo branding is visible, and the platform prioritizes free ad-supported streaming content.
For absolute confirmation, check your TV's system settings:
Press the Home or Menu button on your remote
Navigate to Settings (usually a gear icon)
Look for System, About, or Device Information
Find "Software Version" or "System Information"
The OS name will be displayed clearly in this menu. If you need to find hisense tv model number, you'll find it in this same section.
Every Hisense TV has a model number on a sticker on the back panel and in the settings menu. Once you have this number, search for it on the official Hisense website or retailer product pages. The specifications will list the operating system.
Understanding the difference between operating systems also affects which apps you can access. If you're trying to find streaming apps on your television, knowing your OS determines whether you'll use the hisense app marketplace (for VIDAA), Google Play Store, Roku Channel Store, or Amazon Appstore.
The Electronic Program Guide, commonly abbreviated as EPG, is the heart of your channel navigation experience. Understanding how it works helps you get the most from your Hisense TV and explains why you might sometimes see incomplete information.
EPG on Hisense TV is an interactive on-screen schedule showing program listings for broadcast channels. It displays current and upcoming shows with titles, times, and descriptions for up to 7 days, letting you browse content and set recording reminders directly from the guide.
Think of the EPG as a digital TV listings magazine that updates automatically. Instead of flipping through printed pages, you scroll through a grid showing what's playing now and what's coming up across all your channels.
Your Hisense TV receives program information through two different methods, and understanding this explains a lot about EPG behavior.
Over-the-Air (OTA) Data: Broadcast stations transmit program information alongside their regular TV signals. This data is embedded in the digital broadcast stream. Your TV's tuner extracts this information and displays it in the guide. The advantage? You don't need an internet connection. The limitation? Some stations transmit minimal data, and OTA information typically covers shorter time periods.
Internet-Based Data: When your Hisense TV connects to the internet, it can download enhanced EPG data from online servers. This typically provides more detailed program descriptions, accurate timing information, and longer planning windows (up to 7 days ahead). The catch? It requires a stable hisense internet connection to function properly.
Most modern Hisense TVs use a combination of both sources. The TV grabs basic information from broadcast signals and supplements it with richer data downloaded via your network connection.
Depending on your specific model and operating system, your EPG likely includes these features:
7-Day Advance Listings: Browse what's coming up over the next week
Program Details: Select any show to see full descriptions, cast information, and episode details
Reminder Setting: Mark programs you want to watch and receive alerts before they start
Recording Scheduling: On models with PVR capability, schedule recordings directly from the guide
Category Filtering: Filter the guide to show only sports, movies, news, or other genres
Search Function: Find specific programs or series across all channels
Here's something the other guides don't tell you: when you first set up your Hisense TV or run a fresh channel scan, the EPG may show "No Information" for many programs. This is normal.
The TV needs time to collect program data. With OTA signals, this can take 15-30 minutes as the TV receives and processes broadcast data streams. With internet-connected TVs, the download typically happens faster, but initial population still requires patience.
If your EPG shows blank information after waiting, jump ahead to the troubleshooting section for specific solutions.
One important clarification: the traditional EPG covers broadcast and cable channels received through your antenna or cable connection. Streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ have their own separate navigation interfaces built into each app.
Some newer Hisense models feature unified guides that attempt to combine broadcast channels with streaming content in one interface. However, this integration varies significantly by operating system and model year.
Before you can scan for channels, your TV needs a properly connected signal source. This section covers the physical setup that makes everything else possible.
For over-the-air (antenna) reception:
HD antenna (indoor or outdoor)
Coaxial cable with F-type connectors
Optional: Signal amplifier for weak reception areas
For cable connections:
Coaxial cable from wall outlet
OR HDMI cable if using a cable box
Look at the back panel of your Hisense TV for a port labeled "ANT/CABLE IN," "RF IN," or "ANTENNA." This is a threaded coaxial connector. The exact location varies by model, but it's typically near other input ports.
Some Hisense models have separate ports for antenna and cable connections, while others use a single shared port. Check your specific model's documentation if multiple coaxial ports are present.
Locate the ANT/CABLE IN port on the back panel of your Hisense TV
Connect the coaxial cable from your antenna to this port
Screw the connector firmly by hand—finger-tight is sufficient; don't overtighten
Position your antenna for optimal reception (more on this below)
Power on your TV and proceed to channel scanning
Where you place your antenna dramatically affects how many channels you'll receive. Follow these guidelines:
Height matters. Position the antenna as high as possible in your room. Signals travel in straight lines, and higher placement reduces obstructions.
Direction matters. Point your antenna toward broadcast towers. Use AntennaWeb.org (maintained by the Consumer Technology Association) to find the direction of towers from your address.
Obstructions matter. Windows provide better signal paths than walls. Metal objects, including appliances and building structures, can block signals.
Experimentation pays off. Try multiple locations before settling on one. Even moving an antenna a few feet can dramatically change reception quality.
For comprehensive antenna guidance including signal amplifier recommendations, you can explore more about how to setup digital antenna hisense for optimal local channel reception.
If you subscribe to cable service and use a cable box:
Connect the cable box to your Hisense TV using an HDMI cable
Select the corresponding HDMI input on your TV
Use your cable provider's remote and on-screen guide
Your TV's built-in tuner and EPG won't be used in this configuration
Note that when using a cable box, you're essentially using your Hisense TV as a display. The cable box provides its own channel guide and tuning functions.
Channel scanning is the process where your TV searches for all available broadcast channels and stores them in memory. The exact steps depend entirely on which operating system your TV runs. Here are the complete instructions for each platform.
Before starting any scan, verify your antenna or cable is connected and that you've selected the correct input. If you're having trouble seeing the antenna option, you may need to change input on hisense to the correct source first.
VIDAA provides straightforward channel scanning through its settings menu.
Press the Home button on your remote
Navigate to Settings (gear icon)
Select Channel
Choose Auto Channel Scan
Select your signal source:
Antenna for over-the-air broadcasts
Cable for cable connections without a box
Select scan mode:
Digital for HD channels only
Analog for older standard definition signals
Digital + Analog for both (recommended)
Press Start and wait for completion
The scan typically takes 5-15 minutes depending on how many channels are found. Your TV will display progress and a running count of detected channels.
Google TV integrates channel scanning into its Channels & Inputs menu.
Press the Home button on your remote
Navigate to Settings (top right corner)
Select Channels & Inputs
Choose Channels
Select Channel Scan or Set up input
Choose Antenna or Cable
Confirm and wait for the scan to complete
Google TV may prompt you to set up the Live Channels app if this is your first scan. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial configuration.
Android TV uses a similar process to Google TV with slightly different menu labels.
Press the Home button
Navigate to Settings → Device Preferences
Select Channels or Channel Setup
Choose Auto Channel Scan
Select signal type (Antenna/Cable)
Allow the scan to run to completion
Some Android TV models label this as "Auto Tuning" rather than "Auto Channel Scan."
Roku TV handles antenna setup through its TV Inputs section.
Press the Home button on your Roku remote
Scroll down and select Settings
Choose TV Inputs
Select Antenna TV
Choose Set Up Input (for first-time setup) or Scan for Channels
Wait for the scan to complete
Roku TV will display found channels and ask if you want to add them. Confirm to save the channel list.
Fire TV on Hisense integrates with the Live TV feature.
Press the Home button
Navigate to Settings
Select Live TV
Choose Channel Management or Channel Scan
Select Auto Scan
Wait for completion
Fire TV may also offer an "On Now" feature that shows currently airing content across your scanned channels.
Xumo TV emphasizes streaming but supports antenna channels through its Live TV section.
Press Home to access the main menu
Navigate to Settings
Select Live TV or Antenna TV
Choose Scan Channels or Auto Tune
Complete the scanning process
All platforms display similar information during scanning:
Progress percentage
Number of channels found (updating in real-time)
Signal strength indicators on some models
Typical scan duration:
5-10 minutes for antenna connections
10-20 minutes for cable connections
Longer times for areas with many available channels
After scanning completes, your TV saves all found channels automatically. You can immediately access them through the channel guide or by pressing channel up/down buttons.
Now that your channels are scanned, it's time to master the guide interface. Here's how to open, navigate, and get the most from your Hisense TV channel guide.
Method 1: Dedicated Guide Button Most Hisense remotes have a dedicated Guide or EPG button. Press it once while watching TV to open the channel guide immediately.
Method 2: Menu Navigation Press Menu or Home, then navigate to the Guide, EPG, or Live TV section. The exact label varies by OS.
Method 3: Arrow Up from Live TV While watching a channel, press the Up arrow on your remote. Many Hisense TVs display a mini-guide overlay showing current and upcoming programs.
If you're having trouble with your remote, ensure it's properly paired. You may need to sync hisense remote to tv again if buttons aren't responding.
The standard EPG interface displays information in a grid format:
Left Column: Channel names and numbers, sometimes with network logos
Main Grid: Program blocks showing titles and time slots. Each row represents one channel, and time flows from left to right.
Current Program: Usually highlighted or marked with a "NOW" indicator
Time Bar: Shows the current time and visible time range (typically 2-3 hours)
Master these controls for efficient guide browsing:
Button | Function |
|---|---|
Arrow Keys | Move between channels (up/down) and time slots (left/right) |
OK/Select | View program details or tune to selected channel |
Page Up/Down | Jump multiple channels at once |
Color Buttons | Access additional functions (varies by model) |
Back/Exit | Close guide and return to full-screen viewing |
When you highlight any program in the guide:
Press OK or Select to see full details
A popup displays the complete program description, episode information, and air times
From this screen, you can usually set a reminder or schedule a recording (if supported)
Jump to Specific Channels: Many guides let you enter a channel number directly. Start typing the number, and the guide jumps to that channel.
Filter by Category: Look for a filter option (often accessible via a color button) to show only Sports, Movies, News, or other categories.
Time Jump: Some guides allow you to skip ahead by hours or jump to a specific date. Check for a "Go to Date" or similar option.
Mini-Guide Mode: Pressing Guide multiple times may cycle through different views—full guide, mini-guide overlay, and info bar.
For more ways to navigate hisense channel guide effectively, including keyboard shortcuts and voice commands, explore the additional resources section.
A freshly scanned channel list often includes stations you'll never watch. Learning to organize your channels transforms the viewing experience from overwhelming to enjoyable.
The favorites feature lets you build a shorter list of channels you actually watch, separate from the complete channel list.
VIDAA:
While watching Live TV, press the Options button (or OK)
Select "Add to Favorites" or "Favorite"
The channel is added to your favorites list
Access favorites by pressing the Favorites button or through the channel list menu
Google TV:
While watching a channel, press and hold OK
Select "Add to Favorites" from the popup menu
View favorites through the Live Channels app
Roku TV:
Press Home → Settings → TV Inputs → Antenna TV
Select "Edit channel lineup"
Mark channels as favorites using the star icon
Fire TV:
Open the Live TV guide
Highlight a channel and press the Menu button
Select "Add to Favorites"
Once you've created favorites, access them quickly:
Press the Favorites button on your remote (if available)
Open the channel list and select "Favorites" filter
Some guides show a star icon to toggle between All Channels and Favorites
Beyond favorites, you can hide unwanted channels entirely:
Hiding Channels: Hiding removes channels from the guide and channel surfing without deleting them. You can unhide later if needed.
Navigate to Settings → Channel → Channel List Edit (path varies by OS)
Browse the channel list
Uncheck or toggle off channels you want to hide
Save your changes
Reordering Channels: Some Hisense models allow changing channel order. This feature isn't universal—check your specific model's capabilities in the settings menu.
The channel guide typically includes category filters:
All Channels
News
Sports
Movies
Entertainment
Kids
Access these through the guide menu or by pressing a designated color button on your remote. Filtering helps when you know what type of content you want but not which specific channel.
For advanced users, third-party software like ChanSort can edit channel lists on some Hisense models. This requires exporting your channel list to USB, editing on a computer, and reimporting. This approach is only recommended for technically experienced users who want precise control over channel order across hundreds of stations.
After making significant changes to your channels or settings, you might want to close any running apps to free up memory. Understanding how to manage running applications helps keep your TV running smoothly.
Many Hisense TV models include PVR (Personal Video Recorder) functionality, allowing you to record live broadcasts to external storage. This feature transforms your TV into a basic DVR without additional equipment.
Not all Hisense TVs support recording. The feature depends on your model, region, and operating system. Recording is most commonly available on VIDAA models with PVR-enabled tuners. Check your TV's specifications or user manual to confirm capability.
Recording requires an external USB storage device connected to your TV:
Format: NTFS or FAT32 file system Minimum Capacity: 2GB free space (more recommended for longer recordings) Recommended Device: USB hard disk drive (preferred over flash drives for reliability) Connection: USB port on TV (use USB ports labeled for recording if multiple ports exist)
The first time you connect a storage device for recording, your TV may prompt you to format it. Warning: formatting erases all existing data on the drive.
To record a future program from the EPG:
Open the channel guide
Navigate to the program you want to record
Press OK/Select to view program details
Choose "Record" or "Schedule Recording"
Confirm the recording details (channel, time, date)
The TV will automatically tune and record at the scheduled time
Your TV must be in standby mode (not completely powered off) for scheduled recordings to work.
To record what you're currently watching:
While viewing live TV, press the Record button on your remote
Recording begins immediately
Press Record again or press Stop to end the recording
Access your recordings through the Recording List or PVR menu:
View all recorded programs
Play back recordings
Delete unwanted recordings
Check remaining storage space
Timeshift allows you to pause and rewind live TV by continuously recording to your USB device:
Enable Timeshift in your TV's settings
While watching live TV, press Pause
The TV continues recording in the background
Press Play to resume, or use Rewind to go back
Press the Live button to jump back to real-time
Timeshift requires USB storage and consumes buffer space during use.
Recording may not work for all channels (some have copy protection)
Simultaneous recording of multiple channels typically isn't supported
Recordings are usually tied to the TV that made them and can't be transferred
Recording features may be disabled or limited in certain regions
Feature availability varies significantly by model
If you prefer wireless audio while watching recorded content, you can connect bluetooth to hisense for headphones or external speakers.
Beyond traditional broadcast channels, your Hisense TV offers access to free streaming content through FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) services. The most significant addition is Hisense Channels, launched in August 2025.
Hisense Channels is a free ad-supported streaming service that launched on August 14, 2025, in partnership with Xumo Enterprise (a joint venture between Comcast and Charter Communications). The service offers over 200 premium channels featuring movies, TV shows, music, cooking content, and documentaries.
Key features of Hisense Channels:
Completely free with no subscription required
No login mandatory (though optional account creation available)
Ad-supported model providing revenue to content creators
Content partners include Scripps, Radial Entertainment's FilmRise, Stingray, and NBC Universal
Music channels spanning genres like Hip Hop, Country, Jazz, 80s hits, and K-Pop
Video channels including movies, lifestyle content, and documentaries
Easy Listening, Soul Storm, and Smooth Jazz among the music offerings from Stingray
Naturescape and Holidayscapes for ambient viewing experiences
According to David Gold, President of Hisense USA, "Hisense Channels represents a major step forward in our mission to deliver premium, accessible entertainment to every household in America." The service reinforces Hisense's commitment to providing built-in value without requiring additional subscriptions or external devices.
Currently, Hisense Channels is available on:
Hisense Google TVs (primary launch platform)
Expanding to additional Hisense smart TV platforms throughout 2026
The service appears on the home screen of supported TVs, making discovery effortless. Look for the Hisense Channels app or branding on your home screen.
Beyond Hisense Channels, your Hisense TV likely includes these free streaming services:
Pluto TV: Hundreds of live channels and on-demand content, completely free. Strong movie and entertainment selection.
Tubi: Free movies and TV shows with a massive library of content. Owned by Fox Corporation.
Xumo Play: Additional FAST channels beyond what Hisense Channels offers. Especially strong on news and sports content.
YouTube: Free video content with the option for YouTube Premium ad-free experience.
Roku Channel (Roku TVs): Roku's own free streaming service with live channels and on-demand content.
It's important to understand that streaming apps have their own navigation interfaces separate from the traditional EPG:
Broadcast Channels (EPG): Accessed through the Guide button, showing local stations received via antenna or cable
Streaming Channels (Apps): Accessed through individual apps, each with their own unique interface
Some newer Hisense models integrate streaming content into a unified guide that combines both worlds. Check your specific TV's capabilities—this integration continues evolving with software updates.
If you want traditional cable channels without a cable subscription, these services work on Hisense TVs:
YouTube TV - Live TV streaming with cloud DVR
Hulu + Live TV - Streaming plus live channels
Sling TV - Affordable live TV packages
fuboTV - Sports-focused live streaming
These services require paid subscriptions but offer access to channels not available over-the-air.
When your Hisense TV won't find channels, the frustration is real. But most scanning problems have straightforward solutions. Work through these fixes systematically.
Your scan completes but reports zero channels. Here's what to check:
Solution 1: Verify antenna connection Check that your coaxial cable is securely screwed into the ANT/CABLE IN port on your TV. A loose connection is the most common cause of "no channels found."
Solution 2: Confirm correct input source Make sure you've selected the right source type. Choosing "Cable" when you have an antenna (or vice versa) results in zero channels. Return to scan settings and select the correct option. If you're also having trouble with hisense hdmi port issue, the input selection menu is where you verify all connections.
Solution 3: Reposition your antenna Move your antenna closer to a window, higher in the room, or in a different direction. Even small changes can dramatically improve reception. Use AntennaWeb.org to find broadcast tower directions from your location.
Solution 4: Try manual channel scan If auto-scan fails, some TVs offer manual scanning where you enter specific channel frequencies. This can sometimes find channels that auto-scan misses.
Solution 5: Test antenna on another TV If possible, connect your antenna to a different television. If it doesn't work there either, the antenna or cable may be faulty.
If your TV won't turn on at all to perform these tests, you may need to fix hisense wont power on issues first.
The channel scan starts but hangs or crashes before completing.
Solution 1: Power cycle your TV Unplug the TV from the wall (not just the remote power-off). Wait 60 seconds. Plug it back in and try scanning again. This clears temporary software glitches.
Solution 2: Check for firmware updates Outdated software can cause scanning issues. Navigate to Settings → Support → System Update and install any available updates.
Solution 3: Clear cache if available Some operating systems let you clear app cache. Look for this in Settings → Apps or Settings → Storage.
Solution 4: Factory reset as last resort If nothing else works, a factory reset returns your TV to out-of-box settings. Warning: this erases all settings, apps, and preferences. Navigate to Settings → System → Reset to factory defaults.
After factory reset, if your TV exhibits unusual behavior like fix hisense restart problem, additional troubleshooting may be needed.
The scan finds some channels but not all expected stations.
Solution 1: Rescan after repositioning antenna Small antenna movements can reveal additional channels. Experiment with positions and rescan.
Solution 2: Check for broadcast frequency changes Stations occasionally change frequencies due to FCC spectrum repack activities. If channels you previously received are now missing, a rescan may find them on new frequencies.
Solution 3: Verify expected channels Use AntennaWeb.org or RabbitEars.info to confirm which channels should be receivable at your address. You may be too far from certain transmitters.
Solution 4: Consider antenna upgrade Indoor antennas have limited range. If you're missing channels, an outdoor or amplified antenna may help.
Your scan finds channels, but they're all low-quality analog stations instead of digital HD channels.
Solution: Check scan settings and ensure you're scanning for Digital channels (or Digital + Analog). Selecting "Analog only" misses all HD content.
Also verify your TV's tuner supports ATSC digital broadcasts. All modern Hisense TVs sold in the US include ATSC tuners, but extremely old models may not.
When your channel scan fails, work through this systematic process:
Step 1: Is the antenna/cable physically connected? → No: Connect it and try again
→ Yes: Continue to Step 2
Step 2: Is the correct input source selected (Antenna vs. Cable)?
→ Wrong source: Change it and rescan
→ Correct source: Continue to Step 3
Step 3: Does the antenna work on another TV?
→ No: Replace the antenna or cable
→ Yes (or can't test): Continue to Step 4
Step 4: Is the TV firmware up to date?
→ No: Update and try again
→ Yes: Continue to Step 5
Step 5: Have you tried a factory reset?
→ No: Perform factory reset, then rescan
→ Yes: Contact Hisense support—hardware issue likely
If these solutions don't resolve your scanning issues:
Contact Hisense customer support at 1-888-935-8880
The problem may indicate a hardware fault with the internal tuner
Check your warranty coverage before paying for repairs
Certified repair technicians can diagnose tuner hardware problems
Even when channels work fine, the Electronic Program Guide can develop issues. Here's how to fix the most common EPG problems.
The guide shows your channels but lists "No Information" instead of program names and times.
Cause: EPG data hasn't been downloaded or isn't being transmitted by broadcasters.
Solution 1: Wait for data download If you just scanned channels, give the TV 15-30 minutes to collect program data. This is especially true for OTA signals where data downloads happen gradually.
Solution 2: Ensure internet connectivity Internet-connected TVs download enhanced EPG data online. Verify your hisense wifi connection is active and stable.
Solution 3: Rescan channels Sometimes program data gets corrupted. Run a fresh channel scan to reset the EPG data collection.
Solution 4: Check broadcaster coverage Not all stations transmit complete EPG data. Some smaller local stations provide minimal information. This is a broadcaster limitation, not a TV problem.
Programs in the guide don't align with actual broadcast times.
Cause: Time zone or time settings are incorrect.
Solution 1: Set time to automatic Navigate to Settings → System → Time and select "Automatic" or "Network time." This syncs your TV's clock to internet servers.
Solution 2: Verify time zone Confirm your time zone setting matches your actual location. An incorrect time zone shifts all guide listings.
Solution 3: Clear EPG cache Some TVs have an option to reset or clear the program guide data. This forces the TV to re-download fresh information.
The guide opens but shows nothing—no channels, no programs, completely blank.
Solution 1: Power cycle the TV Turn off the TV completely (unplug from wall), wait 60 seconds, and turn back on.
Solution 2: Check internet connection A failed internet connection can prevent guide loading on some systems.
Solution 3: Verify channels exist If your channel list is empty (perhaps after a factory reset), the guide will be blank. Run a channel scan first.
Solution 4: Update firmware Blank guide issues sometimes result from software bugs fixed in updates.
The guide shows old information—yesterday's programs or the same data for days.
Solution 1: Verify stable internet Intermittent connectivity prevents guide updates. Check your network connection.
Solution 2: Force refresh Run a new channel scan, which typically triggers fresh EPG data download.
Solution 3: Check for updates Firmware updates sometimes fix EPG refresh bugs.
If you're also experiencing audio problems alongside guide issues, troubleshoot hisense sound separately as these may indicate a broader system issue requiring attention.
Once your channel guide is working, these advanced tips help maintain optimal performance over time.
Getting the most channels depends heavily on antenna positioning:
Height is critical. Mount your antenna as high as possible. Upper floors receive better signals than ground level positions.
Direction matters. Point your antenna toward broadcast towers. Most metros have towers clustered in similar directions. Use online tools to find tower locations relative to your address.
Minimize obstructions. Metal objects, thick walls, and electronic devices can block signals. Position antennas away from these interference sources.
Outdoor beats indoor. When possible, outdoor antennas significantly outperform indoor models. The investment pays off in more channels and more reliable reception.
Signal amplifiers (preamps and distribution amplifiers) can help or hurt reception:
When to use an amplifier:
Long coaxial cable runs (over 50 feet)
Signal splitting to multiple TVs
Weak reception areas far from broadcast towers
VHF channel reception problems
When NOT to use an amplifier:
Already strong signals (can cause overload)
Interference issues (amplifiers boost noise too)
Multipath problems (amplification won't help)
If you're seeing visual glitches that might be signal-related, such as hisense tv display lines, the cause could be signal interference or a display hardware issue requiring different troubleshooting.
Regular channel rescans keep your guide accurate:
Rescan monthly as a general maintenance practice
Rescan immediately after:
Moving to a new location
Noticing missing channels that previously worked
Broadcast stations announcing frequency changes
FCC spectrum repack activities in your area
Major TV firmware updates
Before performing factory resets or major updates:
Note your favorite channels list
Document any custom channel organization
Save your TV's model number and current firmware version
Take photos of important settings screens
Restrict access to certain channels or content:
Navigate to Settings → Parental Controls
Create a PIN code
Choose restriction options:
Lock specific channels
Block by content rating
Restrict recording capability
Set viewing time limits
Rescan your Hisense TV for channels monthly or whenever you notice missing channels. Also rescan after moving to a new location, after a broadcast frequency change in your area (FCC repack), or following a TV firmware update. Regular rescanning ensures you receive all available local channels. Broadcasters occasionally adjust transmitter settings, and new stations may begin broadcasting in your area.
Yes, you can receive free HD channels with an antenna on Hisense TV. Most over-the-air broadcast channels transmit in HD quality, often matching or exceeding cable HD quality. Your Hisense TV's built-in ATSC tuner automatically receives these HD signals. Major networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS) and many independent stations broadcast in 720p or 1080i HD resolution at no cost.
Yes, the basic Hisense channel guide works without internet using over-the-air (OTA) data transmitted alongside broadcast signals. However, internet connection provides enhanced EPG features with more detailed program descriptions and up to 7-day listings. Without internet, guide data may be limited to "now/next" information or shorter time windows depending on what broadcasters transmit.
Most Hisense TVs can store 500 or more channels in the channel list. The exact capacity varies by model, but this limit far exceeds the typical number of available over-the-air or cable channels in any region. You're unlikely to encounter storage limitations under normal use.
Yes, most Hisense TVs sold in the United States include a built-in ATSC digital tuner, allowing you to receive free over-the-air broadcast channels with an antenna. Check your TV's specifications or look for an "ANT/CABLE IN" port to confirm tuner availability. Some commercial or hospitality models may omit tuners, so verify before purchase if antenna reception is important to you.
Saved channels may disappear on Hisense TV due to software glitches, power interruptions during updates, or automatic firmware updates that reset certain settings. To prevent this: avoid unplugging TV during use, ensure a stable power supply, and periodically document your channel preferences. If channels repeatedly disappear, try a factory reset followed by a fresh channel scan.
The Channel Guide (EPG) is an interactive schedule showing program listings across all channels with times and descriptions. Live TV refers to the actual broadcast content you watch. Think of the guide as a menu and Live TV as the meal—the guide helps you find what's on, while Live TV is the act of watching it. On some Hisense systems, "Live TV" is also the app or menu section where you access broadcast channels.
Yes, you can use your Hisense TV without cable or antenna by relying entirely on streaming content. Services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and free options like Pluto TV, Tubi, and the new Hisense Channels app provide extensive content without broadcast reception. You'll need an internet connection, but no antenna or cable subscription is required for streaming-only use.
To find local channels on your Hisense TV, connect an antenna to the ANT/CABLE IN port, then run a channel scan through Settings → Channels → Auto Channel Scan. Select "Antenna" as your source and let the scan complete. Your TV will detect and save all receivable local broadcast stations. See the Complete Channel Scanning section above for OS-specific instructions.
You can record shows on some Hisense TV models using the built-in PVR (Personal Video Recorder) function without a cable box. This works with over-the-air antenna channels and requires connecting a USB storage device to your TV. Recording capability varies by model and region, so check your specific TV's specifications. See the Recording & DVR Features section for complete setup instructions.
Mastering your Hisense TV channel guide transforms how you experience television. The key points to remember:
Know your operating system. Whether you're using VIDAA, Google TV, Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, or Xumo, identifying your OS ensures you follow the correct instructions every time.
Channel scanning varies by platform. But the fundamentals remain consistent: connect your signal source, select the right input type, and let the scan complete without interruption.
Most guide problems have simple solutions. Power cycling, verifying connections, updating firmware, and rescanning channels resolve the vast majority of issues.
Free content keeps expanding. With Hisense Channels offering 200+ free streaming channels since August 2025, plus Pluto TV, Tubi, and other FAST services, your Hisense TV provides entertainment far beyond traditional broadcast channels.
Bookmark this guide for future reference. When new questions arise or updates change how features work, you'll have a comprehensive resource ready. For ongoing questions about what to expect from hisense products generally, Hisense continues demonstrating why they've earned the number two global position in TV sales.
Regular firmware updates bring new features and improvements, so check for updates periodically. Your Hisense TV experience will only get better over time.
This guide covers Hisense TVs running VIDAA, Google TV, Android TV, Roku TV, Fire TV, and Xumo TV operating systems. Specific features and menu paths may vary by model year and firmware version. For model-specific questions, consult your TV's user manual or contact Hisense support.