In recent years, the entertainment industry has changed significantly. The COVID-19 pandemic sped up the shift to streaming platforms as theaters closed. People turned to home entertainment. While streaming apps are safer and more convenient, they can also be costly and frustrating. This is mainly due to the need for multiple subscriptions to access exclusive titles scattered across different platforms.
Crave offers a smart solution to this problem. It combines content from sources like HBO, Starz, and SUPER ÉCRAN. With Crave, you get a wide range of exclusive offerings through a single subscription. Its vast library of shows and films makes the Crave TV app your ultimate entertainment companion. It simplifies viewing and enhances enjoyment.
What is Crave?
Crave is a Canadian streaming service with a subscription model. It offers TV shows, movies, documentaries, and original content.
Crave, owned by Bell Media, is a Canadian subscription streaming service. It launched as Crave TV in 2014, originally named “Project Latte.” The name changed to CraveTV in December 2014.
Crave was inspired by Netflix’s 2010 launch in Canada. This prompted local media and cinema companies to explore streaming. They introduced platforms like Cineplex Store and the now-defunct Shomi.
CraveTV started with a low monthly subscription of $4, roughly the price of a latte in Canada then. Since then, Crave has adjusted its prices, improved its platform, and expanded its library to meet viewer needs.
Key Features of Crave:
- HBO Content: Crave provides access to a vast library of HBO’s shows, including popular series like Game of Thrones, Succession, and Euphoria.
- Showtime: It also features Showtime series such as Billions, Dexter, and Homeland.
- Starz Add-on: Subscribers can get Starz shows and movies as an add-on package.
- Crave Originals: Crave produces original content exclusive to the platform, including series, films, and documentaries.
- Movies: The platform has a vast selection of movies, including Hollywood blockbusters, indie films, and documentaries.
- Compatibility: Crave is available on various platforms such as smart TVs, gaming consoles, mobile apps, and browsers, making it accessible across devices.
Crave offers high-quality programming from premium networks. It caters to users seeking an alternative to global streaming services like Netflix or Disney+.
Crave Availability
As a Shaw Direct customer, you can subscribe to Crave and enjoy your favorite shows and movies. Please note that a Crave subscription requires an active TV service subscription with Shaw Direct.
Benefits of Subscribing to Crave:
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Once subscribed, you can access Crave via your web browser, the Crave mobile app, On-Demand, or the Ignite TV app. You can also watch it on your TV’s linear channels.
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Crave subscribers will get all four live Crave channels and two HBO channels. They will also have access to the vast on-demand content in the service.
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Also, you’ll get access to four Super Écran channels and their on-demand content via your receiver and the Crave app.
Features of the Crave App
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Live Streaming | Watch live TV channels directly from the app. |
Key Premieres | Key premieres are added to the app after airing on live channels. |
Parental Controls | Allows setting restrictions for content based on maturity levels. |
Download to Go | Download shows and movies to watch offline. |
Screen to Screen | Seamlessly switch between devices (e.g., start on phone, continue on computer). |
Watch Lists | Create lists to keep track of your favorite shows and movies. |
Up to 5 Profiles | Allows up to 5 individual profiles with personalized content preferences. |
Register up to 5 Devices | You can register and stream on up to 5 devices. |
Crave Features
Feature | Included in Crave |
Crave Mobile App | ✓ |
BlueCurve TV (On Demand only) | ✓ |
Video On Demand | ✓ |
Crave.ca Website access | ✓ |
Live Channels | ✓ |
First Run Hollywood Movies | ✓ |
HBO Current Seasons | ✓ |
HBO Past Seasons | ✓ |
HBO Library Seasons
(i.e. The Sopranos or Entourage) |
✓ |
Showtime Current, Past, and Library Seasons
(i.e. Billions, The Affair, Dexter) |
✓ |
Crave Original Series (i.e. Letterkenny) |
✓ |
New and Past seasons of highly popular hit television series
(i.e. The Handmaid’s Tale, The Big Bang Theory, Star Trek: Discovery) |
✓ |
Family and Kids content | ✓ |
Crave TV Subscription Plans and Pricing
Plan | Price (CAD/month) | Features |
---|---|---|
Crave Basic with Ads | $9.99 | Ad-supported access to most Crave content, limited number of titles unavailable, 1 stream at a time, 720p video |
Crave Standard with Ads | $14.99 | Ad-supported access to most Crave content, limited number of titles unavailable, 4 streams at a time, up to 4K video |
Crave Premium Ad-Free | $22.00 | Ad-free access to all Crave content, 4 streams at a time, up to 4K video, downloads available, live channels |
Comparison of Crave TV Pricing with Competitors
Feature | Crave TV | Netflix | Amazon Prime | Disney+ |
---|---|---|---|---|
Base Plan Price (CAD/month) | $9.99 (with ads) | $10.99 (with ads) | $8.99 (with ads) | $11.99 |
Ad-Free Plan Price (CAD/month) | $22.00 | $16.49 | N/A | $15.99 |
Number of Streams | 1-4 | 1-4 | 3 | 4 |
Video Quality | Up to 4K | Up to 4K | Up to 4K | Up to 4K |
Downloads | Available with Premium plan | Available with most plans | Available with most plans | Available with most plans |
Live Channels | Included with Premium plan | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Original Content | Extensive | Extensive | Extensive | Extensive |
Crave Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Access to premium content from HBO, Showtime, and Starz | Available only in Canada |
Large selection of movies, series, and documentaries | Subscription can be more expensive with add-ons |
Crave Originals with exclusive programming | Not all content is available for download |
Live streaming of Crave and HBO channels | Limited international content compared to other platforms |
Download-to-go feature for offline viewing | Lacks some features like 4K streaming on all devices |
Multiple profiles (up to 5) and watchlists | Some delays in adding key premieres after live airing |
Parental controls for managing family viewing | Device registration limited to 5 devices |
Seamless switching between devices | User interface can be less intuitive compared to competitors |
Content available on various devices and apps | Not as many original shows as some other platforms |
How to access Crave on your receiver
For Fibe TV Customers
You have several options to locate Crave content:
For English Content:
- Press the On Demand button on your remote (or navigate to the On Demand section in the menu), then go to the Crave & More category and select Crave™.
- Tune into channel 1310 (HD) or 310 (SD) and press SELECT on your remote.
- Press the Apps button on your remote (or navigate to the Apps section in the menu), find the Crave app, and select it.
- The first time you use the Crave app, you’ll need to log in with your MyBell username and password.
- Don’t have a username? Register for MyBell.
For French Content:
- Press the On Demand button on your remote (or navigate to the On Demand section in the menu), then go to the French – Crave & More category and select Crave FR.
- Press the Apps button on your remote (or navigate to the Apps section in the menu), find the Crave app, and select it.
- Log in with your MyBell username and password for the first time.
For Satellite TV Customers
Crave™ is available on receiver models 9241, 9400, 9500, or 7500 (check the front of your receiver for the model number) and requires a high-speed Internet connection (2 Mbps download speed or faster). Customers with a 9241 or 9400 receiver will need an Internet connector to access on-demand content. Learn more about Internet connectors.
If you don’t have one of the compatible receivers, you can access Crave using the Fibe TV app.
To locate Crave content on your receiver:
For English Content:
- Launch the On Demand service using one of the following methods:
- Press the On Demand or Movies button on your remote (or iTV on older remotes).
- Tune into channel 1000 (HD) on the on-screen guide.
- Press Menu on your remote and select On Demand.
- Navigate to the Crave & More category and select Crave™.
For French Content:
- Launch the On Demand store using one of the following methods:
- Press the On Demand or Movies button on your remote (or iTV on older remotes).
- Tune into channel 1800 (HD) on the on-screen guide.
- Press Menu on your remote and select On Demand.
- Navigate to the French – Crave & More category and select Crave FR.
How to access Crave™ on other devices
To easily access all your content, use the Fibe TV app, which is compatible with various devices. Here’s how to find Crave content within the app:
1. Log in using your MyBell username and password.
2. Click on Menu in the upper left corner to open the side navigation panel.
3. Select On Demand.
4. Click on the Crave logo in either the English or French section, depending on your language preference.
If you don’t have a MyBell username, you can register for one.
You can also access Crave content through the Crave™ app.
Note: Streaming Crave™ over Wi-Fi or a mobile network will contribute to your monthly Internet or mobile data usage.
How to access Crave™ on your computer
You can access Crave™ on your computer through most web browsers by visiting tv.bell.ca. Here’s how to get started:
- Log in to the app using your MyBell username and password.
- Click on the Menu in the upper left corner to open the side navigation panel.
- Select On Demand.
- Click on the Crave logo in either the English or French section, depending on your language preference.
Who is Crave a Good Choice For?
Crave aims to serve a diverse Canadian audience. It offers unique content and features that set it apart from other streaming platforms.
Who Crave Appeals To:
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The Homegrown Content Enthusiast: Crave is a Canadian streaming service that highlights local talent and stories. It’s perfect for those wanting to support and explore Canadian narratives. Unlike Netflix, which aims for a global audience, Crave focuses on Canadian content. This makes it the top choice for fans of local entertainment.
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The HBO Fan: Crave’s partnership with HBO and Max offers Canadians exclusive access to a variety of HBO content. They can enjoy both classic and new HBO shows without needing a Max subscription. This gives Crave an edge for fans of premium shows like Game of Thrones, Succession, and The Last of Us.
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The Live TV Traditionalist: Crave offers live streaming of channels like Crave, HBO, and Super Écran. This is ideal for fans of live TV, especially those used to cable or satellite. They can easily channel surf. Unlike Netflix, which only has on-demand content, Crave combines live TV with a vast on-demand library. This makes it a flexible choice for different viewing preferences.
When You Might Consider Other Options:
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If You Prefer Ad-Free Viewing: Crave’s basic plans include ads, interrupting binge-watching. To watch without ads, you need the Premium plan, which is pricier. This is a drawback for budget-conscious viewers who dislike ads.
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If You Want More Global Content: Crave excels in Canadian content and exclusive HBO shows. However, its international selection is limited compared to Netflix or Disney Plus. So, if you prefer a wider range of global shows and movies, Crave might not satisfy you.
What Should You Know About the Crave Subscription?
Does Crave offer a free trial?
No, Crave no longer provides a 7-day free trial for new users.
How can I pay for my Crave subscription?
Crave accepts payments via Canada-issued credit and debit cards. You can also opt to add Crave to your existing TV provider bill, making your payments part of a consolidated statement.
Does Crave offer gift cards?
Yes, Crave offers gift cards that can be used to pay for subscriptions or given as gifts to friends and family. To redeem a gift card, visit https://www.crave.ca/subscribe.
How does Crave’s billing cycle work?
Your billing period starts on the day you subscribe. For instance, if you sign up for Crave on the 14th, your next charge will be on the 14th of the following month. Annual plans follow the same cycle but renew yearly.
Can I cancel my Crave subscription anytime?
Yes, you can cancel your Crave subscription at any time. After canceling, you will retain access to Crave content until the end of your current billing cycle. Once your billing date passes, your streaming access will end.
Steps to cancel your Crave subscription:
- Go to the Crave website and sign in.
- Click on the user icon in the top right corner and navigate to “Manage Account.”
- Select “Subscriptions.”
- Click “Cancel Subscription” in the top right corner.
To cancel an add-on:
- Sign in to your Crave account.
- Go to “Manage Account” through the user icon.
- Select “Subscriptions.”
- Click “Cancel Add-on.”
Canceling your standalone Crave subscription cancels any add-ons. But, canceling an add-on does not cancel your main subscription. You will still be billed for it.
What Can I Watch on Crave?
Crave boasts a vast streaming library with top TV shows and movies from HBO, STARZ, and Max, plus French content from Super Écran. It offers a seamless experience, featuring full seasons and movie franchises.
Subscribers can watch all episodes of iconic HBO series like Sex and the City, Game of Thrones, and The Sopranos.
Crave also produces original hits like Letterkenny, Shoresy, and Canada’s Drag Race. Despite a smaller selection than Netflix or Disney Plus, these shows are award-winning and popular.
The movie collection includes franchises such as John Wick, Harry Potter, and The Dark Knight. It also features classics and modern hits like Parasite, Barbie, and Dune.
For French-speaking Canadians, Crave offers films like Mommy and Une Femme Respectable.
In short, Crave combines premium series, original content, popular movies, and French programming, appealing to a wide audience.
Does Crave Offer Kids’ Content and Parental Controls?
Crave has a special section for kids, making it perfect for families. It features popular shows like Peppa Pig, Paw Patrol, and Pokemon. Plus, it offers movies such as Rio and Shrek.
Crave also prioritizes safety with strong parental controls. Parents can create PIN-protected profiles to block mature content. They can also customize profiles to control what their kids watch. This makes Crave a top choice for family entertainment.
Can I Watch Crave Outside Canada?
Crave is only available in Canada due to geo-restrictions. However, you can access it from other countries using a VPN. Just subscribe to a VPN and connect to a Canadian server. ExpressVPN is a great option, known for its speed and security.
Be aware, though, that Crave tries to block VPN IP addresses. Using a VPN also breaks Crave’s Terms of Service. This could lead to account suspension or termination. So, while a VPN might offer temporary access, it’s risky for your account.
What Are Crave’s Key Features?
Crave’s key features are multi-device streaming, high-quality video, offline viewing, a user-friendly interface, and broad device compatibility.
What Streaming Quality Does Crave Offer?
Crave provides two streaming resolutions: High Definition (HD) and 4K. To enjoy content in 4K resolution, ensure that your device meets the necessary compatibility requirements and is updated with the latest technology.
On Which Devices Can I Watch Crave?
You can access Crave on a variety of internet-connected devices, including:
Smart TVs:
- Samsung Smart TVs (Models with Samsung Smart Hub from 2017 to 2023)
- Sony Android TV
- LG Smart TVs (OLED, NanoCell, and UHD models from 2017 and newer)
- RCA TVs (Powered by webOS TV)
- Roku Smart TVs (Brands like TCL, Sharp, RCA, Hisense, Sanyo, Westinghouse)
- Hisense & Toshiba Smart TVs (Using VIDAA U6+ OS)
Computers/Laptops:
- PC: Windows desktop running version 8.1 or later
- Mac: macOS 10.11 or later
- Web Browsers:
- PC: Firefox 88+, Chrome 68+, Edge 16+
- Mac: Safari 10+, Firefox 88+, Chrome 68+
Mobile Phones/Tablets:
- Android devices: Tablets and smartphones running version 7.0 or later
- Apple devices: iPads, iPods, and iPhones running iOS 13 or later with AirPlay
- Windows devices: Tablets and smartphones running version 8.1 or later
Gaming Consoles (Not compatible with the Basic plan):
- PS4 and PS4 Slim
- PS5 and PS5 Slim
- Xbox One, Xbox One S, Xbox One X
- Xbox Series X
Media Players:
- Amazon Fire TV
- Android TV (OS 7.0+ devices)
- Apple TV: Apple TV 4K or Apple TV HD with OS Version 14.0+
- Bell Streamer
- Bell Fibe (VIP7802 model)
- Bell Fibe HD1, 2
- 4K Boxes (VIP5562 model)
- Chromecast
- Roku devices (Not compatible with the Basic plan)
Does Crave have a user-friendly interface?
Yes, Crave has a simple interface that’s effective but less advanced than some competitors. Its layout is clear, with categories for content by genre, release date, and popularity. Moreover, the search function is easy, helping users find shows and movies quickly.
However, the visual design needs work. Compared to other streaming services with modern, attractive interfaces, Crave’s design seems a bit outdated.
Can I Download Shows and Movies for Offline Viewing?
Yes, Crave allows subscribers to download shows and movies for offline viewing. You can download up to 20 titles per device. This lets you enjoy your favorite content offline.
Is Crave Worth the Money?
Absolutely! Crave is a great value for fans of HBO shows, Canadian content, and a mix of classic and modern films. It’s also a top choice for those moving away from traditional cable TV.
Crave FAQ
1. Is Crave’s ad-supported plan available on Roku?
No, Crave’s ad-supported plans are not compatible with Roku devices. Additionally, the service is not supported on AirPlay or PlayStation 4 and 5.
2. Is Crave available in other countries?
No, Crave is exclusive to Canada. However, you can access the platform from outside the country by using a VPN.
3. Is the Crave Mobile plan still available?
No, Crave has discontinued its mobile plan. However, existing subscribers to the Crave Mobile plan can continue to access their subscriptions.
4. What happened to the Crave Total plan?
The Crave Total plan has been rebranded as the Premium ad-free plan. It offers the same features and benefits as the previous plan but at a lower price.
5. Does Crave still offer Showtime content?
No, Crave has stopped licensing content from Showtime as of January 2023. Most Showtime series have been removed. A few popular shows, like “Yellowjackets” and “Billions,” remain available for streaming on the platform.