Learn how to use the Sling video player, including fast-forwarding, using the mini player, and more.

TVs and gaming consoles

• Pause and play: Press the center select button on your remote. You can pause live TV for up to an hour before it automatically resumes playing.
  

• Fast-forward or rewind: Use the directional left and right buttons to quickly skip through a video timeline. It’s typically not possible to fast forward through live programming, and the ability to skip commercials is sometimes limited.
  

• Previous channel: Press and hold the center select button on your remote to jump to the last channel you were watching.
  

• Record a show: Press down to see recording options, then choose what you’d like to record. Learn more about recording and using your DVR >
  

• Closed captions: Press down, then select CC to turn closed captions on or off. 

   

Mobile devices and tablets

Download the Sling app to watch live TV and all your recordings on the go. Tap you screen to reveal the controls, then you can:

• Watch in mini player: Tap the down arrow in the top left corner of the screen to minimize what you’re watching. You can then return to your device home screen while Sling keeps playing on a mini screen.
  

• Fast-forward or rewind: Drag the progress bar to exactly where you want to start watching, or tap the screen to skip forwards or back by 10 seconds.
  

• Pause and play: Use the center button to pause or resume your show.
  

• Cast: Tap the cast icon in the top right to transfer your content to a compatible smart TV.
  

• Turn on closed captions: Tap the CC icon to toggle subtitles on or off.
  

• Change video quality: Tap the gear icon to adjust your player settings for streaming quality. Decreasing the streaming quality can be useful when you’re trying to watch with a slower internet connection.
  

• Switch to fullscreen: Tap the fullscreen icon to expand the video.
  

• Record a show: Tap More options, then select Record.

Frequently Asked Questions
 

Can I skip ads?

The ability to skip ads varies by channel and is based upon agreements with our channel providers.
You can fast-forward through ads on content you have recorded to your DVR!
 

Can I use player controls on local channels?

If you receive ABC, NBC or FOX as a part of your Sling Blue subscription, you will be able to use player controls on those channels.

Any local channels you receive through an over the air antenna or AirTV device will not be able to use player controls.
Learn more about local channels

What channels can I use player controls on?

Player controls are available on 99% of channels. If you don't see player controls like pause or record, that channel is only available to watch live.