Streaming TV websites and online networks

In such a vast country, it is little wonder that the United States of America has arguably the most powerful TV market in the world (there is currently estimated to be over 325 million active TV sets in the country), though their operations are different from many other nations to accommodate for their wide reach.

Major TV networks are generally just a collection of many 'regional networks' (either 'affiliated' or 'owned and operated' (O&O)), which broadcast an often-fixed schedule with alterations where local shows might be preferred (e.g. news & sport).

Four of these networks clearly stand out from the rest when it comes to ratings, with Fox, ABC, NBC, and CBS the best-known of those that reach all markets in the country, where services offer channels through a range of terrestrial, cable, satellite, digital, and online platforms (amongst others).

With a long-standing history in broadcasting, the USA is notable for several records and innovations, including the world's first colour TV broadcast in 1950, first permanent 3D channel (n3D in 2010), and the large volume of advertising seen on networks. The current record for a TV program audience in the USA is the 111 million average that tuned in to see Super Bowl XLV in 2011.