Zap2it was once a widely used TV listings platform created by Nexstar Media Group, providing local and national TV schedules for the U.S. and Canada. With powerful partnerships including Disney, Dish Network, Cox, Yahoo TV, The New York Times, Redbox, and more, Zap2it served millions of households for years.
However, as of 2025, Zap2it is no longer functioning reliably. It now redirects to another domain called “NewsNationNow,” which offers similar services. Listings have become outdated, some regions no longer display schedules, and many of its core features no longer work consistently..
Why Zap2it Stopped Working
Zap2it’s decline was gradual but noticeable to long-time users. Pages became slow, listings failed to load, and later redirects to another domain. Several key reasons contributed to its downfall:
- Lack of major updates as newer TV listing tools gained popularity
- Increased competition from streaming platforms and smart-TV guides
- Technical issues that went unresolved
- Shift in user behavior as cable subscribers moved to streaming services
While the site may still redirect, it can no longer be relied upon for consistent, up-to-date listings.
About Zap2it
| Original Launch | April 3, 2000 |
| Main Domain | tvschedule.zap2it.com |
| Parent Companies | Tribune Media Services (founder) → Nexstar Media Group (acquired in 2019) |
| Service Type | TV listings, movie showtimes, entertainment news (early years), and syndicated listings. |
| Coverage | United States & Canada |
| Audience | TV viewers (OTA, cable, satellite), movie-goers, media partners, newspapers, and pay-TV providers. |
| Key Features | TV listings, movie showtimes, editorial blogs, TiVo click-to-record, syndicated data partnerships. |
| Major Timeline | 2001 redesign → 2003 editorial shift → 2006 blog era → 2007 TiVo integration → 2016 rebranded as Screener → 2017 editorial discontinued → 2018 Zap2it returns → 2025 shutdown |
| Syndication Partners | Disney, Cox, Dish Network, major newspapers (NYT, LA Times), broadcasters, and local media. |
| End of Service | March 25, 2025 — site shut down and redirected under Nexstar. |
| Current Status | Defunct |
5 Best Zap2it Alternatives
Looking for a reliable replacement for Zap2it? These modern TV guide platforms provide accurate, real-time local channel listings and dependable schedule updates.
1. TV Guide — The Most Popular TV Listings Platform
TV Guide is available across the United States, Canada, and select international regions through its website and mobile applications. Users can access live TV listings, streaming listings, and personalized watch lists. TV Guide’s reach extends broadly due to its long-standing presence in the TV schedule industry.
TV Guide’s biggest strength is its combination of live TV, cable channels, and streaming platforms all in one interface. It also provides editorial content, reviews, and trending recommendations, making it more than just a TV listing aggregator. With decades of authority, TV Guide remains one of the most trusted sources for entertainment scheduling.
TV Guide is one of the oldest and most trusted TV listings providers. Today, it offers a robust digital platform that includes live TV listings, streaming recommendations, and personalized watchlists.
The site is easy to navigate, offering schedules for cable, satellite, antenna, and streaming platforms. Its search tool is highly accurate, allowing users to find shows, movies, actors, and future airing dates.
In addition to listings, TV Guide includes editor-curated lists, entertainment news, reviews, and detailed cast information. This makes it a complete entertainment hub, not just a TV schedule grid.
Pros
- Large and reliable listings database
- Personalized watchlists
- Streaming and cable listings in one place
Cons
- Free version contains ads
- Some local listings may be incomplete in rural areas
Pricing
- Free with ads
- Ad-free premium available in some regions
2. TitanTV — Best for Antenna (OTA) Users
TitanTV is fully available in the U.S. and provides detailed over-the-air (OTA) broadcast listings. Its platform supports local antenna users by showing real-time channel lineups, signal ranges, and market-specific programming. TitanTV is also used by broadcasters and hardware manufacturers for accurate TV metadata.
TitanTV excels in precision. Unlike general TV listing sites, TitanTV specializes in accurate OTA schedules and antenna-friendly station data. Users can customize channel lists based on hardware, region, and reception strength. This level of detail makes TitanTV ideal for cord-cutters who rely on local broadcast channels.
TitanTV is the top choice for viewers using antenna-based over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts. It provides highly accurate local channel schedules based on ZIP code entry.
The platform features a clean grid interface that displays real-time listings with minimal visual clutter. TitanTV is popular among cord-cutters who want to replace cable with free antenna TV.
Beyond basic listings, TitanTV offers tools for hobbyists, such as channel signal tracking, custom lineups, and compatibility with DVR systems.
Pros
- Excellent local OTA accuracy
- Highly customizable grid
- Lightweight and fast-loading
Cons
- Older visual design
- Not ideal for streaming-only viewers
Pricing
100% free
3. JustWatch — Best for Streaming TV & Movies
JustWatch is available internationally, supporting the U.S., U.K., Australia, and several European regions. The website offers simplified guides for live TV, movies, news, and sports. It works instantly without requiring user accounts or subscriptions.
The platform’s simplicity is its biggest advantage. It loads quickly, requires no login, and uses a clean interface that appeals to users who want quick answers. JustWatch offers instant daily overviews, making it one of the fastest ways to check what’s airing right now.
JustWatch is the most powerful streaming discovery tool available today. Instead of channel listings, it shows where every show or movie is available to stream.
You can instantly see which service (Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, etc.) offers a title and whether it’s included, rentable, or purchasable. This eliminates the guesswork of checking multiple apps.
JustWatch is ideal for cord-cutters who have moved away from traditional broadcast TV and watch exclusively online.
Pros
- The best streaming availability tool
- Fast and accurate search
- Global coverage
Cons
- Not suitable for cable/antenna viewers
- Occasional availability mismatches
Pricing
Free (premium tools optional)
4. On TV Tonight — Fast & Lightweight TV Listings
On TV Tonight is available in the United States and focuses on local broadcast and cable lineup verification. It provides nationwide coverage using station databases and real-time channel affiliation updates. It is especially helpful for tracking station changes and regional channel movements.
On TV Tonight’s strength lies in its accuracy regarding channel identification and market mapping. It is regularly used by broadcasters, antenna installers, and industry professionals. Its data is updated frequently based on FCC filings and station movements, making it one of the most reliable back-end resources for TV metadata.
On TV Tonight is a simple and clean TV listings platform popular for its fast loading times and global availability.
It covers local broadcast channels, cable networks, and streaming menus, making it a hybrid listings tool. Users can set their region for a tailored grid schedule.
The design focuses on usability, offering clear navigation with minimal ads. It supports U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and more.
Pros
- Clean, lightweight design
- International support
- Great mobile experience
Cons
- Fewer advanced features
- Limited editorial recommendations
Pricing
Free
5. TVPassport — Strong Zap2it-Style Replacement
TVPassport supports multiple countries including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. It provides comprehensive listings for cable, satellite, streaming apps, and local broadcast channels. Its widespread coverage makes it one of the most global Zap2it alternatives.
TVPassport’s biggest strength is its platform-agnostic search system. Users can filter between cable, streaming, and live TV with one click. It also supports customizable watchlists and alerts. Its global reach and streaming integration make it a standout choice for modern TV viewers.
TVPassport most closely resembles Zap2it’s classic layout. It offers listings for cable, satellite, and antenna channels across North America.
Many local TV stations embed TVPassport’s listings directly on their websites, making it a trusted and widely used source.
TVPassport includes detailed show descriptions, cast information, sports schedules, and reminders. Users can also create custom watchlists and favorite channels.
Pros
- Highly detailed listings
- Strong support for local markets
- Works with all TV types (OTA, cable, satellite)
Cons
- Ads can clutter the interface
- Design may feel slightly busy
Pricing
Free
Conclusion
Zap2it was once a powerful and convenient tool for TV listings, but its decline has left many viewers searching for alternatives. Thankfully, several modern platforms offer better accuracy, more features, and an improved user experience.
Whether you prefer traditional cable, antenna-based live TV, or streaming-only entertainment, there’s a perfect Zap2it replacement available — such as TV Guide, TitanTV, JustWatch, On TV Tonight, and TVPassport.
Explore each platform to find the one that matches your viewing style.
FAQs
Is Zap2it still working?
No, Zap2it now redirects to another domain, and many regions display outdated or missing TV listings. Most users have moved to more reliable alternatives..
What is the best alternative to Zap2it?
TV Guide closely replicates Zap2it’s traditional TV listings, TitanTV is the leading option for over-the-air antenna users seeking precise broadcast schedules, and JustWatch remains the most reliable tool for browsing streaming availability across multiple services.
Why did Zap2it stop updating?
Reduced maintenance, technical issues, and shifting viewer trends contributed to the platform’s decline.
Which platform works best for free OTA antenna TV?
TitanTV provides the most accurate and customizable OTA channel listings.
Are any Zap2it alternatives free?
Yes — TitanTV, On TV Tonight, and TVPassport all offer free listings.
