Cord-cutters, rejoice! Google is starting its own subscription-based streaming service this spring called YouTube TV, offering more than 40 channels of premium content. According to the website, users will be able to stream content from ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN and other regional sports and cable networks, along with access to YouTube Red programming. At $35 per month, users will be able to watch their favorite shows live, or use a cloud DVR system to save and watch recorded programs on-demand. It also offers up to six profiles per account, similar to Netflix.
YouTube TV / GoogleYouTube TV comes in a wave of recent cable alternatives like Netflix and Sling TV which offer convenience and personalization that traditional TV and cable subscriptions can’t provide. With the option to watch what you want, when you want, on any screen you want, younger users especially are finding more value in these new providers and are often paying less. For content providers, this is yet another opportunity for exposure.
The Good: YouTube’s big advantage here is that a slew of free content is already on the platform, and most people already use the YouTube app. So adding Netflix-like premium services will make it even more valuable and can truly compete with Netflix and Hulu streaming services. The $35 price tag is well worth it, considering all the grade-A programming provided.
The Bad: Some programming, such as Showtime and soccer is available for an additional fee. And some content comes with restrictions. For example, professional football games can not be watched from a mobile device due to Verizon’s deal with the NFL. Also, you can bet Google will throw some ads in the form of pre-roll or mid-show commercials.
Google says the service will be available in the “coming weeks and months,” so be on the lookout!
I’ve been using SelectTV (https://goo.gl/9lH053) lately. They have many of the channels listed in this article and then some, not to mention the cost per year is practically the same as the cost per month for YouTube TV. It may not have all of the bells and whistles Google will be incorporating, but the price gap is significant and SelectTV stands strong on its own with an intuitive interface and a wide spectrum of quality content. It may be inexpensive, but it’s certainly not “cheap.”