What channels are included in a standard YouTube TV subscription, and are there any differences in channel availability based on location (like different local channels in different cities)? Also, does YouTube TV offer any add-on packages with additional channels, and if so, what are some examples of those add-on packages and the channels they include, including pricing for those add-ons? Finally, are there any major channels that are noticeably absent from YouTube TV compared to other live TV streaming services like Hulu + Live TV or Sling TV?
Answer
YouTube TV offers a comprehensive channel lineup that caters to a wide range of interests, including news, sports, entertainment, and family programming. The exact channels available can vary slightly depending on your location, as local network affiliates (like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC) are market-specific.
Core Channels (Generally Available in Most Areas):
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Broadcast Networks: ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, The CW, PBS (in many markets). Telemundo and Univision are sometimes included for Spanish-language broadcast.
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News: CNN, MSNBC, Fox News Channel, BBC World News, CNBC, HLN, NewsNation, Cheddar.
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Sports: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, ESPNU, FS1 (Fox Sports 1), FS2 (Fox Sports 2), NBC Sports Network (often includes regional NBC Sports channels), CBS Sports Network, Golf Channel, MLB Network, NBA TV, NFL Network, Olympic Channel, Tennis Channel, SEC Network, ACC Network, Big Ten Network.
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Entertainment & Lifestyle: AMC, BBC America, Bravo, Cartoon Network, Comedy Central, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, E!, FX, FXX, Freeform, FXM, HGTV, Investigation Discovery (ID), MotorTrend, National Geographic, Nat Geo Wild, Oxygen, Paramount Network, Pop, Smithsonian Channel, Syfy, TBS, TLC, TNT, Travel Channel, truTV, USA Network, VH1, WE tv, IFC, SundanceTV.
- Family & Kids: PBS Kids, Universal Kids, Nick Jr., Nickelodeon, TeenNick.
Add-on Channels (Available for an Additional Fee):
YouTube TV offers a variety of add-on channel packages to further customize your viewing experience. These add-ons typically focus on specific interests and include channels like:
- Sports Plus: NFL RedZone, beIN SPORTS, VSiN, Stadium, GOLTV, Billiard TV, SportsGrid, Outside TV.
- Entertainment Plus: Includes HBO Max, SHOWTIME, and STARZ.
- Spanish Plus: Includes a range of Spanish-language sports, news, and entertainment channels.
- Other Add-ons: Hallmark Movies Now, Cinemax, Acorn TV, ALLBLK, AMC+, CuriosityStream, Dove Channel, EPIX, Law & Crime, MHz Choice, Pantaya, Shudder, ScreenPix, Topic, and more. The availability of these add-ons can change.
Local Channels:
YouTube TV aims to provide access to local broadcast channels, but the availability depends on your location. Use the YouTube TV website or app to check which local channels are offered in your specific area by entering your zip code.