What is YouTube TV?
Google's YouTube TV is a notable streaming service for live TV channels without the need for cable, particularly in the U.S. It provides access to over 100 live TV channels, unlimited DVR storage for recording shows and sports events, and various add-ons to enhance the cord-cutting experience. Additionally, YouTube TV is compatible across multiple platforms, allowing users to stream on various devices seamlessly.
- Author: Shine
- Update: Dec 11, 2024
A little about YouTube TV and how it works
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YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service available in the United States that serves as an alternative to traditional cable or satellite services. It streams content over the Internet and can be accessed on various devices, including phones, tablets, TVs, and web browsers. This allows users to watch TV as they normally would, from anywhere with an internet connection, whether at home or on the go.
When YouTube TV launched in 2017, it was initially limited to a small number of locations in the United States. However, in 2019, the service expanded significantly to cover all 210 markets and has since greatly increased its channel offerings.
YouTube TV now features over 110 channels, including the four major national broadcasters: ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox. Availability may vary based on your location, so it's advisable to check your ZIP code for specific channel access.
The distinction between YouTube TV and the main YouTube platform remains clear. While there is some shared branding and YouTube TV operates as a subdomain of YouTube, you won't find recommended YouTubers or YouTube Shorts alongside channels like ESPN and CNN.
However, you may see recommendations for movies and shows available for rent or purchase through YouTube.YouTube TV's primary competition comes from Hulu with Live TV, as both services vie for subscribers in the live streaming market.
YouTube TV cost: What's the price?
When YouTube TV launched in 2017, its monthly subscription cost was $35. Since then, the price has gradually increased as the service expanded its availability and added more live TV channels. The most recent price increase occurred in March 2023, raising the base monthly fee from $65 to $73.
YouTube TV offers new subscribers a 10-day free trial. Currently, the Base Plan is priced at $63 per month, which is a discount of $10 off the original price of $73 for the first three months, resulting in a total savings of $30. Additionally, YouTube TV provides a Spanish plan that includes over 34 channels from Spanish networks for $35 per month, also available with a one-week free trial for new users.
The Base Plan allows you to create accounts for up to six family members and supports three simultaneous streams. It also includes unlimited cloud DVR storage for recording shows, movies, and live sports without any storage limits. Any content recorded on the DVR remains available for nine months, giving you plenty of time to catch up on your favorite programs and games.
YouTube TV Plans and Add-Ons
YouTube TV provides a range of plans and add-ons to accommodate various viewing preferences, ensuring a customized television experience for its subscribers. Here’s an overview:Base Plan: The foundation of YouTube TV's offerings, the Base Plan grants access to over 100 channels, including major networks like NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, and ESPN, covering a wide array of entertainment, news, and live sports. Subscribers enjoy unlimited cloud DVR storage and can create up to six individual profiles per account. Price: $72.99/month.
Sports Plus Add-On: Ideal for sports fans, the Sports Plus add-on includes additional channels such as NFL RedZone, Fox College Sports, GOLTV, Fox Soccer Plus, MAVTV Motorsports Network, TVG, and Stadium. This add-on ensures that you won't miss any action from your favorite sports leagues. Price: $10.99/month.
Entertainment Plus Add-On: This package combines premium channels like HBO Max, Showtime, and Starz, offering a wealth of movies, original series, and exclusive content for viewers seeking more entertainment options. Price: $29.99/month.
4K Plus Add-On: The 4K Plus add-on enhances the viewing experience by providing content in ultra-high definition and allows unlimited simultaneous streams at home—perfect for households with multiple viewers. Price: $9.99/month.
Individual Premium Channels: Subscribers have the option to add individual premium channels such as HBO Max, Showtime, and Starz to their base plan.
Price: Starting at $1.99/month.
Spanish Plan: Tailored for Spanish-speaking audiences, this plan includes Spanish-language news, sports, and entertainment channels. Price: $34.99/month.Each of these plans and add-ons is designed to enhance the YouTube TV experience, providing flexibility and customization to meet individual preferences.
To sign up for YouTube TV, visit the YouTube TV website, click on "Try It Free," and follow the prompts. With a diverse range of content and a user-friendly interface, YouTube TV is an appealing choice for those looking to personalize their TV viewing experience.
YouTube TV's Channel Lineup
One of the standout features of YouTube TV is its extensive channel lineup. Users can enjoy a wide variety of content from local networks to popular cable channels. The general categories of channels available on YouTube TV include:
Local Channels: ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX affiliates for local news and programming.
News Networks: CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, CNBC, BBC News, among others.
Entertainment Channels: AMC, TNT, TBS, FX, USA Network, Bravo, HGTV, Food Network.
Sports Channels: ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, FS2, NBC Sports Network, CBS Sports Network, regional sports networks (RSNs).
Kids Channels: Cartoon Network, Disney Channel, Nickelodeon.
Movie Channels: FXM, TCM.
Educational Channels: National Geographic, Discovery Channel, History Channel.
Lifestyle Channels: TLC, Lifetime, E!, among others.
Premium Channels (available as add-ons): HBO Max, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz.
This comprehensive channel lineup makes YouTube TV a compelling option for viewers seeking diverse content options across various genres.
