YouTube TV is shaking up the live streaming landscape by moving away from its “one-size-fits-all” model. This week, the service began rolling out more than 10 new genre-specific streaming packages designed to give viewers more control over their channel lineups and their monthly bills.
For years, YouTube TV offered a single primary base plan. While comprehensive, the rising cost—now $82.99 per month, has led many consumers to seek leaner, more affordable options. These new “slimmed-down” plans aim to fill that gap, with prices starting as low as $55 a month.
The New Plan Lineup
The new offerings are grouped by interest, allowing you to pay for the types of content you actually watch. Here are the primary packages currently being introduced:
-
Sports Plan ($64.99/month): Aimed at die-hard fans, this plan is $18 cheaper than the main base plan. It includes major broadcasters and key sports networks like ESPN, FS1, and NBC Sports Network. YouTube also teased the addition of “ESPN Unlimited” coming later this fall. New users can get an introductory rate of $54.99 for the first year.
-
Entertainment Plan ($54.99/month): This is the most affordable entry point, saving subscribers $28 compared to the full plan. It features a mix of lifestyle and scripted content from networks like FX, AMC, Bravo, Food Network, HGTV, Hallmark, and Comedy Central. New users can sign up for $44.99 for the first three months.
-
Sports + News Plan ($71.99/month): This bundle combines the full Sports Plan with national news staples like CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, CNBC, Bloomberg, and BBC News. New users can access this for $56.99 for the first three months.
-
News + Entertainment + Family ($69.99/month): Designed for households with diverse needs, this package adds family-friendly programming—including Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, PBS Kids, and Cartoon Network—to the news and entertainment lineup. New users pay $59.99 for the first three months.
What Stays the Same?
Despite the lower price points and smaller channel counts, these new plans do not skimp on the features that made YouTube TV popular. All subscribers, regardless of the plan they choose, will still receive:
-
Unlimited DVR: Store as many recordings as you want for up to nine months.
-
6 Accounts per Household: Each family member gets their own personal login and recommendations.
-
Advanced Features: Access to “Key Plays,” “Multiview,” and 4K capability (as an add-on).
-
Premium Add-ons: You can still customize any plan with extras like NFL Sunday Ticket, Max, or NBA League Pass.
The Strategy: Combatting “Cable Bloat”
The move marks a significant shift in strategy for Google. By offering “skinny bundles,” YouTube TV is positioning itself against competitors like Sling TV and Philo, which have long attracted budget-conscious cord-cutters.
While the $82.99 Base Plan remains the most comprehensive option for those who want “everything,” these new tiers provide a much-needed middle ground for users who are tired of paying for dozens of channels they never flip to.
The rollout is expected to continue over the next several weeks. Current subscribers and interested cord-cutters can check their account settings or the YouTube TV website to see which specific configurations are available in their area.
Feeling lost in the digital world? Dr. Tom is here to help!
Join Dr. Tom every week in his column, Dr. Tom’s Cyber Bits and Tips, for byte-sized advice on all things cyber and tech. Whether you’re concerned about online safety, curious about the latest cybercrime trends, or simply want to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape, Dr. Tom has you covered.
From practical cybersecurity tips to insightful breakdowns of current threats, Dr. Tom’s column empowers you to stay informed and protect yourself online. So, dive in and get savvy with the web – with Dr. Tom as your guide!
Sign up for our Sunday Spectator. Delivered to your inbox every Sunday, with all the news from the week.
