That “rising cost of content” appears to be related to the addition of eight more ViacomCBS channels to the YouTube TV line starting today: BET, CMT, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Network, TV Land and VH1. So, you can see the likes of The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, RuPaul’s Drag Race and Sponge Bob Square Pants on YouTube TV. BET Her, MTV2, MTV Classic, Nick Jr., NickToons, and TeenNick will be added later.
Still, YouTube TV is infiltrating traditional cable pricing territory. It’s now more expensive than Hulu with Live TV (50+), AT&T Now Plus (45+), and the FuboTV base plan (up to 109 or so, depending on where you live), all of which cost $ 55 / mo.
The increase is somewhat understandable, as YouTube is looking to expand the features and the number of channels available on the service. It now houses more than 70 channels. But the walk can make the monthly cost too high for many people, including those who cut the cable with their cable provider to adopt TV streaming.
However, there appears to be a tiered subscription model on the way. “As the broadcast industry continues to evolve, we are working to build new flexible models for YouTube TV users so that we can continue to deliver a robust and innovative experience for everyone in your home without the compromises of traditional television.” Oestlien wrote. However, it can be difficult to configure on-demand options, given the way networks group their channels:
Most networks require us to include their entire portfolio of channels for subscribers, which increases the overall price of the service. We are committed to continuing to innovate our service and offer flexible options to members in the future.
– YouTube TV (@YouTubeTV) June 30, 2020
As for the new features, YouTube TV is launching one that will allow you to jump to different segments on some news shows. It’s a bit similar to the key games option for sports. The feature is available in TV settings now, and will arrive on mobile in the coming weeks. The service also updated its Live Guide on the desktop to include details on what’s currently streaming and what’s available to watch over the next seven days.
