Arizona Television Stations
Complete Guide to Broadcast Television in the Grand Canyon State
50+
Television Stations
3
Major Markets
2.2M
Phoenix TV Households
#12
Phoenix DMA Ranking
📺 Table of Contents
Phoenix (Prescott) DMA Market Overview
The Phoenix (Prescott) designated market area (DMA) is the 12th largest television market in the United States, serving 2,198,200 TV households as of the 2024-2025 season, representing a 1% increase from the previous year. The market comprises 11 counties: Apache South, Coconino, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave, Navajo, Pinal, and Yavapai.
- DMA Ranking: #12 nationally
- TV Households: 2,198,200 (2024-2025 season)
- Geographic Coverage: 11 counties across central and northern Arizona
- Population Centers: Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Glendale, Chandler, Prescott, Flagstaff
- Weekly Reach: Over 2.2 million people served by major stations
Market History and Significance
Television broadcasting began in Arizona on December 4, 1949, when KPHO-TV Channel 5 became the state's first television station. Broadcasting from a small building next to the Hotel Westward Ho in Phoenix, KPHO remained the only television station in Arizona for over three years during the FCC's freeze on new station construction permits.
Today, the Phoenix market is recognized as a leader in broadcast innovation, serving as the first ATSC 3.0 "Model Market" in the nation. Phoenix was selected by the Pearl consortium in 2017 to test NextGen TV technology, with 11 stations now broadcasting in the advanced format.
Major Broadcast Groups in Phoenix
- Gray Television: KPHO (CBS), KTVK (3TV Independent), KPHE-LD (Arizona's Family Sports)
- Tegna Inc.: KPNX (NBC), KNAZ (NBC Flagstaff)
- E.W. Scripps Company: KNXV (ABC), KASW (CW)
- Fox Television Stations: KSAZ (FOX), KUTP (MyNetworkTV)
- TelevisaUnivision: KTVW (Univision), KFPH (UniMás)
- NBCUniversal: KTAZ (Telemundo)
- Arizona State University: KAET (Arizona PBS)
Phoenix Television Stations - Complete Listing
Major Network Affiliates
| Call Letters | Channel | Network | Owner | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KPNX | 12 (VHF) | NBC | Tegna Inc. | 12news.com |
| KPHO-TV | 5 (VHF) | CBS | Gray Television | azfamily.com |
| KNXV | 15 (VHF) | ABC | E.W. Scripps Company | abc15.com |
| KSAZ | 10 (VHF) | FOX | Fox Television Stations | fox10phoenix.com |
| KTVK | 3 (VHF) | Independent | Gray Television | azfamily.com |
| KAET | 8 (VHF) | PBS | Arizona State University | azpbs.org |
KTVK 3TV - Arizona's Iconic Independent Station
KTVK is one of the most successful independent television stations in the United States. After losing its ABC affiliation in 1995, KTVK has thrived as an independent, with its evening newscast regularly outperforming national network broadcasts. Founded in 1955 by former U.S. Senator and Arizona Governor Ernest McFarland, the station remained family-owned until 1999, making it one of the last family-owned major-market TV stations in America.
Secondary Network Affiliates
| Call Letters | Channel | Network | Owner | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KASW | 61 (UHF) | The CW | E.W. Scripps Company | cwtv.com |
| KUTP | 45 (UHF) | MyNetworkTV | Fox Television Stations | fox10phoenix.com |
| KAZT-TV | 7 (VHF) | The CW (secondary) | Londen Family / Nexstar (TBA) | cwtv.com |
| KPPX | 51 (UHF) | ION Television | Ion Media Networks | iontelevision.com |
| KPHE-LD | 44 (UHF) | Arizona's Family Sports | Gray Television | azfamily.com |
KAZT-TV - Arizona's Only Locally Owned Station
KAZT-TV (channel 7), licensed to Prescott, is the only locally owned and operated broadcast station in the Phoenix DMA. The station maintains studio locations in both Phoenix and Prescott, serving as a unique voice in Arizona's broadcasting landscape.
Ownership and History Highlights
📺 KPNX (NBC 12) - Tegna
Licensed to Mesa, serving Phoenix since 1953. Originally KTAR-TV, the station changed call letters to KPNX in 1979 when Gannett Company (now Tegna) acquired the station but sold the radio properties. The station has been owned by Tegna and its predecessor Gannett since 1979. KPNX reaches more than 2.2 million people weekly.
📺 KPHO-TV (CBS 5) - Gray Television
Arizona's first television station, beginning broadcasts on December 4, 1949. Originally owned by Meredith Corporation from 1952-2021, Gray Television acquired KPHO and sister station KTVK in December 2021 for $2.7 billion as part of Meredith's Local Media division sale. The station celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2024.
📺 KNXV (ABC 15) - Scripps
E.W. Scripps Company acquired KNXV in January 1985 from New Television Corp. for $30 million. The purchase marked Scripps' expansion into the Phoenix market. In 2019, Scripps added KASW (CW 61) in a $580 million acquisition from Nexstar/Tribune, creating a duopoly.
📺 KSAZ (FOX 10) - Fox Television Stations
Owned and operated by Fox Corporation's Fox Television Stations division. News Corporation acquired KSAZ in January 1997 as part of a $2.48 billion stock deal with New World Communications, converting it to a Fox owned-and-operated station. Forms duopoly with KUTP (MyNetworkTV 45).
Spanish-Language Television in Arizona
Arizona has a robust Spanish-language television presence, reflecting the state's significant Hispanic population. The Phoenix market features full-power stations from both major Spanish-language networks.
| Call Letters | Channel | Network | Market | Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KTVW-DT | 33 (VHF) | Univision | Phoenix | TelevisaUnivision |
| KFPH-DT | 13 (VHF) | UniMás | Flagstaff (Phoenix) | TelevisaUnivision |
| KTAZ | 39 (UHF) | Telemundo | Phoenix | NBCUniversal |
| KPDF | 58 (UHF) | Azteca América | Phoenix | HC2 Network |
| KHRR | 40 (UHF) | Telemundo | Tucson | NBCUniversal |
KTVW Univision Arizona - Market Leader
KTVW-DT (Channel 33) launched on September 2, 1979, as Arizona's first full-time Spanish-language television station. For 27 years, KTVW was the only full-power Spanish-language station in Phoenix, giving it considerable market dominance.
Current Status: KTVW is described as the most-watched television station in the Phoenix DMA, regardless of language. The station is owned and operated by TelevisaUnivision alongside Flagstaff-licensed UniMás outlet KFPH-DT.
Telemundo's Complex History in Phoenix
Telemundo's broadcast history in Phoenix is notably complex. The network first appeared in 1989 on low-power station K64DR (later KDRX-LP and KDRX-CA). Despite being low-power, KDRX began airing local newscasts in 1997 and was sold to the Telemundo network in 2002.
In 2005, Telemundo and Daystar Television Network executed an unusual license and facility swap. Telemundo traded a full-power station in Holbrook (KPHZ) and the low-power channel 48 for Daystar's full-power KDTP (channel 39). This allowed Telemundo to compete more effectively when the station relaunched as KTAZ on July 6, 2006.
Prior to full-power status, Univision cornered 89% of Spanish-language ratings in Phoenix in 2005—the last major market where Univision enjoyed such an overwhelming advantage. The transition to full-power significantly improved Telemundo's competitive position.
Noticiero Telemundo Arizona
KTAZ produces statewide newscasts for both Phoenix (KTAZ) and Tucson (KHRR semi-satellite), branded as Noticiero Telemundo Arizona. Production facilities are located at studios on South 33rd Place in Phoenix.
Arizona PBS (KAET Channel 8)
KAET (Channel 8), branded as Arizona PBS, is the PBS member television station for Phoenix, owned by Arizona State University and operated by the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. The station began broadcasting from the ASU campus on January 30, 1961.
Digital Channels
| Channel | Programming | How to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| 8.1 Arizona PBS | Main PBS programming | Antenna, Cox 8, DirecTV 8, Dish 8, CenturyLink 1008 |
| 8.2 PBS Life | Lifestyle programming | Antenna 8.2, Cox 80, CenturyLink 9, Suddenlink 142 |
| 8.3 PBS World | Documentary and world news | Antenna 8.3, Cox 88, CenturyLink 20, Suddenlink 143 |
| 8.4 PBS KIDS | Children's programming 24/7 | Antenna 8.4, Cox 81, CenturyLink 22, DirecTV 288, Suddenlink 144 |
Streaming Options
- YouTube TV: Dedicated live channels for Arizona PBS and Arizona PBS KIDS, plus on-demand content
- Hulu + Live TV: Access to PBS's award-winning content and locally-produced shows
- DIRECTV STREAM: Dedicated live channel for Arizona PBS
- Official Website: azpbs.org/schedule for complete programming schedule
Special Programming Features
- Classical Music: 5.1 channels of surround sound featuring Phoenix Symphony, Phoenix Chorale, ASU School of Music, and local arts organizations
- Educational Content: High-quality dramas, science programs, documentaries, and public affairs broadcasts
- Local Productions: Arizona-focused programming showcasing state history, culture, and communities
- Historical Milestone: In 1989, Arizona PBS televised Arizona Supreme Court oral arguments—a national first
- NextGen TV Pioneer: First public television station in the country to launch NextGen TV ATSC 3.0 programming (January 2019)
Tucson-Sierra Vista Television Market
The Tucson-Sierra Vista DMA ranks #65 nationally with 497,660 TV households as of the 2024-25 season. The market serves southern Arizona, encompassing Pima County and extending to Santa Cruz, Cochise, and Graham counties.
- DMA Ranking: #65 nationally
- TV Households: 497,660 (2024-2025 season)
- Major Markets: Tucson, Sierra Vista, Nogales
- NextGen TV: Six stations launched ATSC 3.0 on May 28, 2024
- First PBS Station: KUAT-TV signed on March 8, 1959 (first public TV in Arizona)
Tucson Television Stations
Major Network Affiliates
| Call Letters | Channel | Network | Owner | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KVOA | 4 (VHF) | NBC | Allen Media Broadcasting | kvoa.com |
| KOLD-TV | 13 (VHF) | CBS | Gray Television | kold.com |
| KGUN-TV | 9 (VHF) | ABC | E.W. Scripps Company | kgun9.com |
| KMSB-TV | 11 (VHF) | FOX | Tegna Inc. | fox11az.com |
| KUAT-TV | 6 (VHF) | PBS | University of Arizona | azpm.org |
| KWBA | 58 (UHF) | The CW | KWBA License Partnership | cwtv.com |
| KHRR | 40 (UHF) | Telemundo | NBCUniversal | telemundo.com |
KUAT-TV - Arizona's First Public Television Station
In 1959, the University of Arizona built KUAT-TV, the first public television station in Arizona. The station began regular programming on March 8, 1959, initially broadcasting to the immediate Tucson area. Regional coverage became a reality on October 1, 1968, with the activation of a transmitter atop Mount Bigelow.
Today, KUAT-TV operates as Arizona Public Media, serving southern Arizona with PBS programming, local productions, and educational content from the University of Arizona campus.
NextGen TV Launch in Tucson (2024)
On May 28, 2024, six Tucson television stations launched NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) broadcasts, bringing enhanced digital television capabilities to southern Arizona:
- KHRR (Telemundo)
- KVOA (NBC)
- KOLD (CBS)
- KUAT (PBS)
- KGUN (ABC)
- KMSB (FOX)
2024 Programming Updates
Recent changes to Tucson station multicast channels:
- KVOA: Added MeTV Toons (4.4), dropped Grit (4.5), added KHRR's American Crimes stream (40.3)
- KMSB: Dropped Movies! (11.2), moved Quest to 11.2, added Nosey on 11.4
- KOLD-TV: Replaced Defy TV with Ion Plus (13.4), hosting KHRR's Oxygen True Crime (40.4)
Yuma-El Centro Television Market
The Yuma-El Centro DMA ranks #164 nationally with 124,660 TV households as of the 2024-25 season. The market spans Yuma County in Arizona and Imperial County in California, featuring a significant Hispanic population exceeding 60% in Yuma County.
- DMA Ranking: #164 nationally (smallest Arizona market)
- Coverage Area: Yuma County, AZ + Imperial County, CA
- Hispanic Population: Over 60% in Yuma County
- Programming: Prominent bilingual and Spanish-language content
- First Broadcast: KECC-TV (now KECY) signed on December 11, 1968
Yuma-El Centro Stations
| Call Letters | Channel | Networks | Owner | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KYMA-DT | 11/13 | NBC & CBS | Rincon Broadcasting (SSA with NPG) | kyma.com |
| KECY-TV | 9 | FOX, ABC, CW+, MyNetworkTV | News-Press & Gazette Company | kyma.com |
| KESE-LD | 35 | Telemundo | News-Press & Gazette Company | — |
Unique Market Structure
The Yuma-El Centro market has an unusual consolidated structure. On July 2, 2014, News-Press & Gazette Company (NPG) announced a resource sharing agreement with Blackhawk Broadcasting (owner of KSWT and KYMA-DT), giving NPG control of all "Big Four" network affiliates in the market.
The three main stations share studios on South 4th Avenue in downtown Yuma, with an advertising sales office on West Main Street in El Centro. KECY-TV's transmitter is located in the Chocolate Mountains.
KSWT/KYMA Call Letter Switch (2020)
On January 13, 2020, an unusual call letter swap occurred in the Yuma market. Following regulatory requirements from Apollo Global Management's acquisition of Northwest Broadcasting and Cox Media Group, the market needed to divest one license.
The two stations switched call letters: KSWT became KYMA-DT, and the KYMA-DT license (selected for surrender) became KSWT. The KSWT call letters were also removed from all branding for the CBS subchannel. This consolidated operation continues to serve the Yuma-El Centro market efficiently.
Arizona Sports Broadcasting
Arizona's professional sports teams have diverse broadcasting arrangements across local television stations, with recent shifts toward over-the-air broadcasts providing free access to fans.
Phoenix Suns & Phoenix Mercury (NBA/WNBA)
📺 Arizona's Family (KTVK/KPHE-LD)
On April 28, 2023, Gray Media and Arizona's Family announced a groundbreaking media rights deal bringing the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury to local broadcast television. 70 games are broadcast free over-the-air with statewide distribution across Arizona.
Coverage: Available in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Yuma. Fans can watch with a digital TV antenna—no cable or streaming subscription required. Additional streaming available through the Kiswe platform.
Arizona Cardinals (NFL)
📺 KPHO-TV (CBS 5) & Arizona's Family
In June 2024, Arizona's Family became the official television partner of the Arizona Cardinals Football Club. Gray Television's partnership includes:
- KPHO-TV & KOLD-TV: Broadcast preseason games
- Arizona's Family: Team-related programming, behind-the-scenes content, Cardinals-focused shows
- High School Football: Arizona Interscholastic Association coverage
- Flag Football: Emerging sport coverage
Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB)
📺 12News (KPNX) - Over-the-Air Games
In 2025, the Arizona Diamondbacks broadcast 10 over-the-air games in partnership with 12News (KPNX). These Friday night games mark the first time in Diamondbacks history that a series of games will be televised on a local network affiliate.
Coverage extends beyond Phoenix: Tucson, Salt Lake, Las Vegas, Albuquerque-Santa Fe, and Yuma-El Centro markets receive broadcasts.
Primary Streaming: MLB platforms continue to stream games via D-backs.TV, with additional availability on the ESPN App starting in 2026.
📺 FOX National Broadcasts
FOX Sports announced eight Arizona Diamondbacks games on its 2025 MLB broadcast schedule: six on FS1 and two on main FOX network, including a National League West matchup with the San Diego Padres on June 14 at Chase Field.
Arizona Coyotes (NHL) - Historical Note
📺 ABC15 & Scripps Sports (Through 2024)
ABC15 (KNXV) and Scripps Sports served as the official broadcast partner of the Arizona Coyotes. Following the team's relocation in 2024, Arizona no longer has an NHL franchise, but historical broadcasts showcased Scripps' sports production capabilities.
Phoenix Rising FC (USL Championship)
📺 Arizona's Family Sports Network
Arizona's Family is the exclusive local broadcasting home of Phoenix Rising FC professional soccer. The Arizona's Family Sports network is available statewide over-the-air, cable, satellite, and on Fubo TV.
Arizona Sports Radio
Arizona Sports 98.7 FM serves as the flagship radio station for the Arizona Cardinals, Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and Arizona State Sun Devils. Fans can live stream games through the Arizona Sports app (available on iOS and Android).
The station provides comprehensive sports coverage including news, analysis, talk shows, and play-by-play broadcasts for Arizona's professional and collegiate teams.
Native American Broadcasting in Arizona
Arizona is home to significant Native American broadcasting initiatives, particularly serving the Navajo Nation and other tribal communities across the state.
NNTV5 - Navajo Nation Television
NNTV5 is the Navajo Nation's low-power, non-commercial television station and the only tribally owned, funded, and operated television station in the United States.
The Navajo Nation TV & Film has existed since the early 1990s, initially as the Navajo Office of Broadcast Services. Following a relaunch in June 2018, the program refocused with a vision to establish a media industry on the Navajo Nation through collaboration with invested partners.
Programming Focus: NNTV5 showcases the Navajo land, people, culture, and language. The station connects with the community through the digital spectrum and builds relationships with industry partners to broaden its native digital network.
FNX - First Nations Experience
FNX (First Nations Experience) is the first and only national broadcast television network in the United States exclusively devoted to Native American and World Indigenous content.
Currently, FNX is carried by 29 affiliate stations broadcasting into 34 states from Alaska to New York, with a potential viewing audience of more than 84.5 million households across the United States. While not based in Arizona, FNX content reaches Arizona viewers through various distribution platforms.
PBS Partnership with Navajo Nation
New Mexico PBS's signal reaches all but one of the more than 20 tribes and pueblos in the state. PBS has signed an agreement with the Navajo Nation allowing the tribe to carry PBS signal and programming on the Navajo Nation Television network, extending educational and cultural programming to tribal communities in Arizona.
KTNN Radio - Voice of the Navajo Nation
📻 KTNN 660 AM - Window Rock
KTNN (660 AM) is a Navajo-language radio station in Window Rock, Arizona (seat of Navajo Nation government). The station was established in 1985 and commenced its first broadcast in February 1986.
Programming: Navajo tribal music, audio from Navajo ceremonial (powwow) dances, Native American music, country music, and bluegrass in English. Continuous public service announcements cover Chapter News, Traditional Ceremonies, Funeral Announcements, Livestock and Rodeo Reports, and Local/Regional News and Weather.
Community Impact: The Navajo Nation regards KTNN Radio as their main source for information, and in many cases, the only source for information affecting them personally.
Native Public Media Network
Flagstaff, Arizona-based Native Public Media supports a network of 59 radio stations and three television stations serving tribal nations across the country. The tribal stations reach more than 1.5 million people.
According to CEO Loris Taylor, Native Public Media stations "may be the only source of locally relevant news, emergency alerts, public safety announcements, language preservation, health information, and election coverage" for many Native American communities.
Religious Broadcasting in Arizona
Arizona features several prominent religious television broadcasters, providing faith-based programming to viewers across the state.
Major Religious Broadcasters
| Call Letters | Channel | Network | Market | Owner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KPAZ-TV | 21 (UHF) | TBN (Trinity Broadcasting) | Phoenix | Trinity Broadcasting Network |
| KDTP | 11 (VHF) | Daystar | Holbrook (Phoenix) | Daystar Television Network |
| KDPH-LD | 48 (UHF) | Daystar | Phoenix | Daystar Television Network |
| KDTP-LP | 58 (UHF) | Daystar | Phoenix | Daystar Television Network |
KPAZ-TV - Trinity Broadcasting Network
Channel 21 Phoenix
KPAZ-TV (Channel 21) is owned and operated by Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), one of the world's largest religious broadcasters. The station signed on September 16, 1967, as the first UHF station in Arizona, initially featuring specialty sports, automated news, Spanish-language programming, and local content.
TBN purchased KPAZ-TV in 1977, making it the network's second television station property. The station's transmitter is located atop South Mountain.
Digital Subchannels: 21.1 KPAZ/TBN (main), 21.2 Church Channel, 21.3 JCTV, 21.4 Enlace USA, 21.5 Smile of a Child. The station operates with 500 kilowatts of power.
Daystar Television Network in Arizona
Multiple Broadcast Facilities
Daystar maintains a multi-station presence in Arizona:
- KDTP (Channel 11): Digital Educational Full-Power station in Holbrook (160 kW)
- KDPH-LD (Channel 48): Low-Power station in Phoenix (150 kW) - formerly KDRX
- KDTP-LP (Channel 58): Low-Power station in Phoenix (23.6 kW)
The Daystar presence in Phoenix originated with K39BI Ch. 39 (1995-1998), then became KDTP-LP Ch. 39. The network expanded through the 2005-2006 license swap with Telemundo, acquiring full-power capabilities.
2005-2006 TBN/Daystar Transaction
During 2010, citing economic problems and a lack of donations, TBN closed down and sold many of its low-powered television repeaters. Of those, 17 were sold to Daystar, expanding Daystar's national reach including additional presence in Arizona markets.
Flagstaff & Northern Arizona Broadcasting
Northern Arizona receives television service primarily through translators and satellite stations of Phoenix-based broadcasters, plus one NBC affiliate licensed to Flagstaff.
KNAZ-TV (NBC Channel 2, Flagstaff)
KNAZ-TV (Channel 2) is licensed to Flagstaff and affiliated with NBC. Owned by Tegna Inc., KNAZ maintains a news bureau on the campus of Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, with its transmitter located southeast of the city in rural Coconino County.
KNAZ-TV operates as a full-time satellite of Phoenix-based KPNX (Channel 12). On August 15, 2008, KNAZ ceased production of local newscasts and became a full satellite of KPNX, citing inadequate advertising revenues and lack of satellite carriage.
Translator: KNAZ operates K06AE-D (Channel 6) in Prescott. Historical translators included Woodruff and Sanders.
Broadcasting Challenges in Northern Arizona
Northern Arizona stations face unique economic challenges. The region's smaller population and dispersed communities make it difficult for independent stations to generate sufficient advertising revenue.
Current Reality: Northern Arizona stations cannot survive independently. KNAZ is a satellite of KPNX (NBC Phoenix), KFPH-DT is a full-power satellite of KFPH-CA (UniMás), and KAZT-TV essentially operates as a full-power satellite of KAZT-CD (CW). Phoenix stations also operate translators in Prescott, Cottonwood, and Flagstaff to extend coverage.
Historical Context
As early as July 1967, plans emerged for a new television station in Flagstaff. At that time, the area was only served by two UHF translators of KTVK and KOOL-TV from Phoenix. In January 1997, Gannett Company (which owned KPNX in Phoenix) acquired KNAZ-TV, leading to the eventual satellite relationship that continues today.
NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) in Arizona
Arizona, particularly the Phoenix market, is a national leader in NextGen TV deployment. Phoenix was selected as the first ATSC 3.0 "Model Market" in the United States, with Tucson following in 2024.
Phoenix - Nation's First ATSC 3.0 Model Market
On November 14, 2017, the Pearl consortium (comprising major broadcasting groups including Cox Media Group, Graham Media Group, Hearst Television, Gray Television, Nexstar Media Group, E.W. Scripps Company, and Tegna Inc.) announced it would use Phoenix as a test market for ATSC 3.0 transition in 2018.
As part of trials, Univision's KFPH-CD in Phoenix was converted to ATSC 3.0 on April 9, 2018, marking one of the first commercial ATSC 3.0 broadcasts in the United States.
11 Phoenix Stations Broadcasting NextGen TV
E.W. Scripps Company
- KASW (CW, Channel 61)
- KNXV (ABC, Channel 15)
Fox Television Stations
- KSAZ (Fox, Channel 10)
- KUTP (Fox10 Xtra, Channel 45)
Gray Television (Meredith)
- KPHO (CBS, Channel 5)
- KTVK (Independent, Channel 3)
TelevisaUnivision
- KFPH-CD (UniMás, Channel 35)
- KTVW (Univision, Channel 33)
Tegna Inc.
- KPNX (NBC, Channel 12)
NBCUniversal
- KTAZ (Telemundo, Channel 39)
Arizona State University
- KAET (Arizona PBS, Channel 8)
Arizona PBS - First Public TV with NextGen TV
Arizona PBS became the first public television station in the country to launch NextGen TV ATSC 3.0 programming beginning in January 2019, demonstrating leadership in broadcast innovation and commitment to serving Arizona viewers with cutting-edge technology.
Phoenix Model Market - Two Transmission Towers
Phoenix now has two ATSC 3.0 transmission towers with FCC-approved licenses, programming legal agreements in place, and facilities on-air. KASW-TV (CW) became the second TV transmission source in the nation's 12th largest TV market.
According to Pearl TV Managing Director Anne Schelle: "What we learn in Phoenix will be critical for a successful deployment of NextGen TV across the country." The model market collaboration was designed to help broadcasters develop commercial launch profiles, station configurations, interoperability with cable retransmission, and support requirements for basic ATSC 3.0 TV service.
Tucson NextGen TV Launch (May 2024)
On May 28, 2024, six Tucson television stations launched NextGen TV broadcasts, making southern Arizona the second region in the state with ATSC 3.0 capabilities:
- KHRR (Telemundo)
- KVOA (NBC)
- KOLD (CBS)
- KUAT (PBS)
- KGUN (ABC)
- KMSB (FOX)
What is NextGen TV?
NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) is a free digital broadcast technology that utilizes internet connectivity and digital applications to present viewers with more news and entertainment choices, while providing broadcasters with a more compelling and interactive way to deliver content.
Benefits for Viewers: Enhanced picture quality (4K Ultra HD), immersive audio, interactive features, on-demand content, enhanced emergency alerts, and improved mobile reception. NextGen TV is free over-the-air, requiring only a compatible TV or converter box.
Arizona Television Broadcasting History
Key Milestones in Arizona Broadcasting
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| December 4, 1949 | KPHO-TV Channel 5 signs on as Arizona's first television station, broadcasting from a building next to Hotel Westward Ho in Phoenix |
| 1949-1952 | KPHO-TV remains the only television station in Arizona during FCC's freeze on new station construction permits. Originally carried all four networks (CBS, NBC, ABC, DuMont) |
| 1953 | Channel 12 (later KPNX) signs on as second TV station in Phoenix area, originally established in Mesa |
| February 28, 1955 | KTVK signs on as Phoenix's fourth television station, becoming an ABC affiliate. Founded by U.S. Senator Ernest McFarland, who authored the GI Bill |
| March 8, 1959 | KUAT-TV begins broadcasting from University of Arizona—first public television station in Arizona |
| January 30, 1961 | KAET (Arizona PBS) begins broadcasting from Arizona State University campus |
| September 16, 1967 | KPAZ-TV (Channel 21) signs on as first UHF station in Arizona, initially featuring Spanish-language programming |
| 1968 | Arizona PBS uses color studio cameras for the first time |
| December 11, 1968 | KECC-TV (now KECY) signs on in El Centro/Yuma as ABC affiliate, becoming third station in that market |
| September 2, 1979 | KTVW launches as Arizona's first full-time Spanish-language television station, affiliated with Spanish International Network (later Univision) |
| 1989 | Arizona Supreme Court oral arguments televised—a national first in judicial broadcasting |
| January 9, 1995 | KTVK becomes independent after losing ABC affiliation to KNXV, beginning its successful run as one of America's premier independent stations |
| January 22, 1997 | News Corporation acquires KSAZ-TV, converting it to Fox owned-and-operated station |
| July 6, 2006 | KTAZ launches as full-power Telemundo affiliate after license swap with Daystar, ending KTVW's 27-year monopoly as only Spanish full-power station |
| August 15, 2008 | KNAZ-TV (Flagstaff) ceases local newscasts, becomes full satellite of Phoenix's KPNX |
| April 9, 2018 | KFPH-CD converts to ATSC 3.0, becoming one of first commercial NextGen TV broadcasts in United States |
| January 2019 | Arizona PBS launches NextGen TV—first public television station in country to broadcast ATSC 3.0 |
| January 13, 2020 | Unusual call letter swap in Yuma market: KSWT becomes KYMA-DT, and KYMA-DT becomes KSWT |
| December 1, 2021 | Gray Television completes $2.7 billion acquisition of Meredith's Local Media division, including Phoenix's KPHO and KTVK |
| April 28, 2023 | Arizona's Family announces media rights deal with Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury—70 games broadcast free over-the-air |
| May 28, 2024 | Six Tucson stations launch NextGen TV, expanding ATSC 3.0 coverage to southern Arizona |
| June 2024 | Arizona's Family becomes official television partner of Arizona Cardinals Football Club |
| December 3, 2024 | KPHO-TV celebrates 75 years of Arizona television broadcast history |
Frequently Asked Questions
Arizona Cardinals: KPHO-TV (CBS 5) and KOLD-TV broadcast preseason games, while Arizona's Family offers team-related programming, behind-the-scenes content, and high school football coverage.
Arizona Diamondbacks: 12News (KPNX) broadcasts 10 Friday night games over-the-air in 2025, reaching Phoenix, Tucson, Salt Lake, Las Vegas, Albuquerque-Santa Fe, and Yuma-El Centro markets.
Phoenix (11 stations broadcasting NextGen TV): KPNX (NBC), KPHO (CBS), KNXV (ABC), KSAZ (FOX), KTVK (3TV), KAET (PBS), KASW (CW), KUTP (MyNetworkTV), KTVW (Univision), KFPH (UniMás), and KTAZ (Telemundo).
Tucson (6 stations, launched May 2024): KVOA (NBC), KOLD (CBS), KGUN (ABC), KMSB (FOX), KUAT (PBS), and KHRR (Telemundo).
Phoenix was selected as the nation's first ATSC 3.0 "Model Market" in 2017, with Arizona PBS becoming the first public TV station in America to launch NextGen TV programming in January 2019.
Phoenix Market:
- KTVW-DT (Channel 33) - Univision: Launched 1979 as Arizona's first full-time Spanish station. Described as the most-watched TV station in Phoenix DMA regardless of language
- KFPH-DT (Channel 13) - UniMás: Sister station to KTVW, both owned by TelevisaUnivision
- KTAZ (Channel 39) - Telemundo: Full-power since 2006, owned by NBCUniversal, produces statewide newscasts
- KPDF (Channel 58) - Azteca América: Additional Spanish-language option
- KHRR (Channel 40) - Telemundo: Semi-satellite of Phoenix KTAZ with local advertising
Keys to Success:
- Strong Local News: Evening newscast regularly outperforms national network broadcasts by large ratings margins
- Local Focus: McFarland wanted it to be "a family corporation, all Arizonans, to keep it local"—decisions made in Phoenix, not New York
- Family Ownership Legacy: Remained family-owned until 1999, one of last family-owned major-market TV stations in America
- Community Connection: Maintained popularity even after losing network affiliation through strong local identity
- Sports Programming: Now part of Arizona's Family (with KPHO and KPHE-LD), broadcasting Phoenix Suns, Cardinals, and local sports
8.1 Arizona PBS (Main): Watch on antenna 8.1, Cox 8, DirecTV 8, Dish 8, CenturyLink 1008, Orbitel Maricopa 8 or 808
8.2 PBS Life: Lifestyle programming on antenna 8.2, Cox 80, CenturyLink 9, Suddenlink 142, Orbitel 211
8.3 PBS World: Documentaries and world news on antenna 8.3, Cox 88, CenturyLink 20, Suddenlink 143, Orbitel 212
8.4 PBS KIDS: 24/7 children's programming on antenna 8.4, Cox 81, CenturyLink 22, DirecTV 288, Suddenlink 144
Streaming Options: YouTube TV (dedicated live channels), Hulu + Live TV, DIRECTV STREAM, and azpbs.org/schedule for complete programming.
Special Features: Classical music in 5.1 surround sound, local arts programming (Phoenix Symphony, Phoenix Chorale, ASU School of Music), and Arizona-focused content.
NNTV5 (Navajo Nation TV): The only tribally owned, funded, and operated television station in the United States. Low-power, non-commercial station showcasing Navajo land, people, culture, and language. Relaunched in June 2018 with vision to establish media industry on Navajo Nation.
KTNN Radio (660 AM): Navajo-language radio station in Window Rock, established 1985. Broadcasts Navajo tribal music, ceremonial (powwow) dances, country music, and bluegrass. Provides continuous public service announcements including Chapter News, Traditional Ceremonies, Funeral Announcements, Livestock and Rodeo Reports, and Local/Regional News and Weather. Regarded as main source of information for Navajo Nation.
FNX (First Nations Experience): First and only national broadcast network exclusively devoted to Native American and World Indigenous content. Carried by 29 affiliates reaching 84.5 million households across 34 states.
Native Public Media: Flagstaff-based organization supports 59 radio stations and three TV stations serving tribal nations across America, reaching 1.5 million people.
Gray Television (Phoenix): KPHO-TV (CBS 5), KTVK (3TV Independent), KPHE-LD (Arizona's Family Sports). Acquired from Meredith in December 2021 for $2.7 billion. Produces 100+ hours of live programming weekly—largest TV news organization in Arizona.
Tegna Inc. (Phoenix & Tucson): KPNX (NBC 12 Phoenix), KNAZ (NBC 2 Flagstaff), KMSB (FOX 11 Tucson). Successor to Gannett Company, owned KPNX since 1979.
E.W. Scripps Company (Phoenix & Tucson): KNXV (ABC 15 Phoenix), KASW (CW 61 Phoenix), KGUN (ABC 9 Tucson). Acquired KNXV in 1985 for $30 million, added KASW in 2019 for $580 million.
Fox Television Stations (Phoenix): KSAZ (FOX 10), KUTP (MyNetworkTV 45). Owned by Fox Corporation, acquired KSAZ in 1997 for $2.48 billion stock deal.
TelevisaUnivision (Phoenix): KTVW (Univision 33), KFPH (UniMás 13). KTVW launched 1979 as first Spanish station, most-watched station in Phoenix DMA.
NBCUniversal (Phoenix & Tucson): KTAZ (Telemundo 39 Phoenix), KHRR (Telemundo 40 Tucson). Full-power since 2006 license swap.
Educational Institutions: KAET (Arizona PBS) owned by Arizona State University, KUAT (Arizona Public Media) owned by University of Arizona.
KNAZ-TV (NBC Channel 2, Flagstaff): Licensed to Flagstaff, owned by Tegna. Operates as full-time satellite of Phoenix's KPNX (NBC 12). News bureau on Northern Arizona University campus, transmitter southeast of Flagstaff. KNAZ ceased local newscast production on August 15, 2008, citing inadequate advertising revenues. Operates translator K06AE-D (Channel 6) in Prescott.
Phoenix Station Translators: Phoenix-based stations (KPNX, KPHO, KNXV, KSAZ, KTVK, KAET) operate translators in Prescott, Cottonwood, and Flagstaff to extend coverage throughout northern Arizona.
Economic Reality: Northern Arizona stations cannot survive independently due to smaller population and dispersed communities making it difficult to generate sufficient advertising revenue. KNAZ is satellite of KPNX, KFPH-DT is satellite of KFPH-CA (UniMás), and KAZT-TV essentially operates as satellite of KAZT-CD (CW).
Viewing Options: Over-the-air antenna, cable (Suddenlink in northern Arizona), satellite (DirecTV, Dish Network), and streaming services (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, fuboTV).
Related Resources
Television Industry Resources
- Television Associations - Industry organizations and professional groups
- Broadcasting Networks - National network information
- Broadcasting Groups - Major station ownership groups
- Cable Companies (MSOs) - Multi-system cable operators
- Cable Networks - Complete A-Z cable channel directory
- TV Guides & Magazines - Programming guides and related sites
Arizona Media & Broadcasting
- USA Media Directory - Complete media resources guide
- Arizona State Guide - Comprehensive Arizona information
- Radio Stations - Arizona radio broadcasting
- Newspapers - Arizona print and digital news
Major Station Websites
- 12News (KPNX NBC) - Phoenix NBC affiliate
- Arizona's Family (KPHO/KTVK) - CBS 5 and 3TV
- ABC15 (KNXV) - Phoenix ABC affiliate
- FOX 10 Phoenix (KSAZ) - Phoenix FOX affiliate
- Arizona PBS (KAET) - Public television
Last updated on November 27, 2025