This article explains different ways to watch TV on an iPad.

Let’s start with the easiest way to watch TV on the iPad: Apps. Not only do most major providers like Spectrum, Fios, Xfinity, and DirectTV offer iPad apps that let you stream channels to your iPad, most channels themselves offer apps. This includes the major broadcast channels like ABC or NBC and cable channels like SyFy or FX.

These apps work by logging in to your cable provider to verify your subscription and offer DVR-style streaming options for the latest episodes of their most popular shows and in some cases, live broadcasts. You can also access premium content through apps. HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, and Starz all have apps that work with most providers.

Even better, the iPad includes a TV app that brings all of this together in a single interface. It will even curate Hulu TV to include alongside broadcast, cable, and premium channels. The iPad can even store your cable information, so you can add additional channel apps without having to type in your cable provider's username and password every time.