Alphabet (formerly Google) owns one of the most popular live TV streaming services in the US.It’s called YouTube TV. It provides access to cable channels and sports networks, offers DVR and account sharing, and works across a range of devices. It even has original programming.
Here is everything you need to know about it, including how much it costs and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash.
What is YouTube TV?
YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service. It provides access to live TV from over 85 broadcast, cable, and regional sports networks. It also offers unlimited DVR space, up to six accounts for one price, and the ability to watch on all of your devices (like your phone, tablet, computer, or TV) YouTube TV also includes YouTube Originals and trending YouTube videos. It’s a direct competitor to Sling TV andHuluwith Live TV.
How much does YouTube TV cost?
YouTube TV requires a paid membership. The Base Plan costs $64.99 (plus tax) per month. In return, you get to watch content from major broadcast networks, popular cable networks, and premium networks, along with popular shows from YouTube creators. For instance, you can access your local CBS and FOX regional sports networks. The base plan allows up to six different profiles and includes free unlimited cloud DVR storage space. Alphabet said there are “no hidden fees, equipment rentals, or installation appointments required”. There is also no commitment - you can cancel at any time.
You can also add on sports and premium networks for an additional monthly charge. For instance, you can get access to Fox Soccer Plus, Showtime, and Starz, and you can unlock additional features such as the “4K Plus” add-on for an additional charge. 4K Plus includes better video quality on available content, the ability to watch recordings offline, and usage of unlimited streams at home, according to Alphabet.
Do you subscribe to YouTube Premium?
Which channels does YouTube TV offer?
To see which channels are available in your home area, enter your home zip code attv.youtube.com/welcome.
Want more sports?
No worries. With NFL RedZone, and over 10 sports networks in one add-on, you can get Sports Plus and watch game day from the comfort of your couch.
Which devices support YouTube TV?
YouTube TV is available on many supported devices, including mobile devices, the web, smart TVs, streaming media players, and gaming consoles.
To see a full list of supported devices,go here.
Mobile device
Note:Download the YouTube TV app in your device’s app store by searching “YouTube TV”.
Note:Download the latest version of Chrome or Firefox to ensure you’re able to watch YouTube TV from the web.
Television
Note:Download the YouTube TV app on your device (search YouTube TV" in your device’s app store.) Supported devices include select Amazon Fire TV devices, Roku players and TVs, Apple TV, Vizio SmartCast TVs, Samsung and LG smart TVs, HiSense TVs, Xbox One,Google Chromecast, TVs with Chromecast built-in likeAndroid TV,AirPlayfor Apple TV, and Google Smart Displays.
Does YouTube TV support 4K?
Yes. The 4K Plus add-on lets you add extra viewing options to your YouTube TV Base Plan. With 4K Plus, you get 4K Ultra High Definition playback for certain live and on-demand programs on YouTube TV. You can also watch unlimited simultaneous streams at home, and use the YouTube TV mobile app to view your recordings offline using your phone or tablet.
Note:4K playback is only available oncompatible devices.It’s also only available on select live and on-demand content with the 4K Plus add-on.
Does YouTube TV have ads?
Yes, many of the networks included have ads. Like with traditional TV, you can’t fast forward through ads while watching live TV. But if yu pause a show, you can fast-forward until you catch up to the live version.Note:You can learn more about ads on YouTube TV on thisGoogle Support page.
Where is YouTube TV available?
YouTube TV is available in the US (to over 99.5 per cent of households, Alphabet claims). There is no word yet when it will come to the UK or other countries.
It’s easy: Go to theYouTube TV sign-up pagefrom your browser and click the “Try it free” button to get started.
Want to know more?
See Pocket-lint’s guide to the bestUS video streaming servicesto see how YouTube TV compares to its competition.
