CBC Gem Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Here’s everything you need to know about CBC Gem — Canada’s free streaming platform from the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, offering live and on-demand access to CBC TV channels, award-winning originals, documentaries, news, and kids’ programming.

What is CBC Gem?

CBC Gem is the official streaming service of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). It allows viewers across Canada to watch CBC live TV channels, news, sports, original series, movies, and a rich library of on-demand content — all in one place.

Is CBC Gem free to watch?

Yes. CBC Gem offers a free tier that gives users access to most on-demand shows, live CBC TV streams from their local region, and the CBC Kids catalogue. However, the free tier includes commercial breaks before and during playback.

For those who prefer an ad-free experience and more premium content options, CBC Gem also provides a paid Premium plan for $4.99 per month (plus applicable taxes), which includes ad-free on-demand viewing, live CBC News Network streaming, and early access to select programs.

What subscription plans does CBC Gem offer?

CBC Gem offers two viewing options:

1. Free Plan
   • Access to on-demand library and live CBC channels (regional feeds)
   • Ad-supported viewing experience
   • Standard video quality (up to 720p)
   • Available on all supported devices
2. Premium Plan ($4.99/month + tax)
   • Ad-free on-demand streaming
   • Live access to CBC News Network
   • Early access to selected shows before TV broadcast
   • Higher video quality (up to 1080p HD)
   • Available to stream on multiple devices and browsers

How can I sign up for CBC Gem?

You can sign up for CBC Gem for free by visiting cbcgem.ca or by downloading the CBC Gem app on your device. Follow these steps:

1. Go to cbcgem.ca or open the CBC Gem app.
2. Click “Sign In / Create Account.”
3. Register with your email address, Google account, or Apple ID.
4. Once registered, you can start watching free content right away.
5. To upgrade to Premium, visit your Account Settings and choose “Subscribe to Gem Premium.”

If you subscribe through an app store (Apple, Google, or Roku), your billing will be handled by that platform.

Do I need a Canadian postal code to sign up for CBC Gem?

Yes. You must enter a valid Canadian postal code when creating your CBC Gem account. This confirms your location for regional CBC channel access and ensures you’re within Canada’s streaming zone. Without a Canadian postal code, you won’t be able to complete registration or access CBC Gem’s full library.

Where is CBC Gem available?

CBC Gem is available exclusively in Canada. The service is geo-restricted due to content licensing agreements.

What channels and content are included on CBC Gem?

CBC Gem includes live streams of CBC TV channels from across Canada and on-demand access to a vast library of programming. This includes:

• CBC Originals such as Heartland, Sort Of, Run the Burbs, Murdoch Mysteries, and Workin’ Moms
• Documentaries from The Nature of Things and CBC Docs POV
• News and Current Affairs via The National, Marketplace, and The Fifth Estate
• International Acquisitions from BBC, ABC Australia, and other global partners
• CBC Kids content including True and the Rainbow Kingdom, Big Blue, and The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy
• Live Channels: CBC (regional feeds), CBC News Network (Premium only), and occasional live special events or sports broadcasts

What devices support CBC Gem?

CBC Gem is compatible with a wide variety of devices and platforms, including:

• Smart TVs: Samsung (Tizen), LG (webOS), Android TV, Fire TV Edition
• Streaming Devices: Roku, Apple TV (4th gen and newer), Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast
• Mobile Devices: iPhone, iPad (iOS 15+), Android phones and tablets
• Web Browsers: Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge (latest versions)
• Game Consoles: PlayStation 4/5 (via browser)

What video quality does CBC Gem support?

CBC Gem streams in up to 1080p HD on supported devices with a stable high-speed internet connection.

• Free users typically receive 720p HD resolution.
• Premium users enjoy 1080p HD quality with fewer compression artifacts.
  Video quality automatically adjusts based on your internet speed to ensure smooth playback.

Does CBC Gem offer downloads for offline viewing?

Yes, but offline downloads are available only to Premium subscribers using the CBC Gem app on iOS and Android devices. You can download episodes and movies for offline viewing for up to 30 days. Once playback begins, you have 48 hours to finish watching before the download expires.

Are there ads on CBC Gem?

Yes. The free tier of CBC Gem includes advertisements similar to traditional television broadcasts, while the Premium plan is ad-free for on-demand content.

Does CBC Gem include live TV?

Yes. CBC Gem includes live streams of CBC channels from your local region. You can watch the same programming that airs on TV in real-time. Premium users also get live access to CBC News Network, Canada’s 24-hour news channel.

Does CBC Gem have parental controls?

Yes. CBC Gem provides built-in parental controls to help manage what children can watch. Parents can set a PIN code to restrict access to mature-rated content and customize recommendations based on family viewing.

Additionally, the CBC Kids section offers a safe, ad-free environment designed specifically for children.

How do I cancel my CBC Gem Premium subscription?

To cancel your subscription:

• If subscribed through cbcgem.ca, log in, go to Account Settings > Manage Subscription, and click Cancel.
• If subscribed through an app store (Apple, Google, Roku), you must cancel through that platform’s subscription settings.

Your access will remain active until the end of your current billing cycle.

How can I contact CBC Gem support?

For assistance, you can reach CBC Gem’s support team through the following:

• Help Centre: cbcgem.ca/help
• Technical Support Form: Accessible via the Help section of the CBC Gem app or website

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