YouTube TV is making a subtle but important move to keep subscribers interested. This week, YouTube TV added new channels to its official channel list to include several popular networks from Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group.
This update is the first clear sign of a new agreement between Google and Allen Media Group, signed earlier this spring. It adds more content to YouTube TV without raising prices right now.
What new channels are on the way?
Several new channels have just appeared on YouTube TV’s public channel list. This means a full launch is likely coming soon for subscribers.
The new channels cover a wide range of interests, from lifestyle shows to car entertainment and local culture.
The main networks about to go live are:
- HBCU Go: This network focuses on the culture, sports, and academic life at America’s historically Black colleges and universities.
- TheGrio: A news and entertainment network centered on Black culture, with movies, talk shows, and original series.
- Cars.TV: A channel made for car fans and collectors.
- Comedy.TV: This station features stand-up specials, comedy series, and fun talk shows.
Other channels from Allen Media Group, like JusticeCentral.TV, Recipe.TV, Pets.TV, and ES.TV, are also expected to launch soon.
No price hike for YouTube TV new channels
These channels used to be available only with YouTube TV’s standard base package, which costs $83 per month. Now, there’s good news for people on Google’s newer, budget-friendly plans.
The new agreement adds The Weather Channel and Comedy.TV to cheaper, genre-based bundles. Comedy.TV is now part of the $55 per month Entertainment Plan, and The Weather Channel is included in the affordable News Plan add-on.
Google’s head of TV and film partnerships, Emily Washkowitz, said the goal of the partnership is to keep a “consistent and diverse lineup” for subscribers without making them pay for the most expensive tiers. Byron Allen agreed, saying he is excited to keep bringing lifestyle and weather programming to YouTube TV’s millions of households.
How to find your new channels
If you already subscribe, you do not have to pay extra for these channels. They will be added to your plan automatically.
If you use a custom Live Guide on your TV or phone, the new channels will not show up at the top automatically. To see them, open your YouTube TV settings on the web or app, go to Live Guide, and check the boxes next to the new channels.
With these new channels, YouTube TV is working to stay ahead in the streaming market and give users more value. By quietly handling channel deals and adding to its packages, the service is offering a real benefit for viewers.