YouTube TV and Paramount Global have agreed a new deal, avoiding the loss of more than 20 national channels, in addition to a selection of local stations, and premium add-ons.
On Wednesday, it became clear that a dispute between YouTube and Paramount had surfaced. The dispute raised the possibility that YouTube TV subscribers could lose access to a number of popular channels, including BET, CBS, CBS Sports, Comedy Central, MTV and Paramount, and as early as Thursday.
While a temporary extension was agreed before the deadline, YouTube has now confirmed that a permanent deal has been agreed as well. The new deal ensures YouTube TV subscribers won’t lose access to any of the disputed channels.
Under the new deal, the Paramount+ and BET+ add-ons will also continue to be available through YouTube TV.
“We’re happy to share that we’ve reached a deal to continue carrying Paramount channels, including CBS, CBS Sports, Nickelodeon, and more. With this agreement, YouTube TV will continue to offer 100+ channels and add-ons including Paramount+ and will enable more user choice in the future. To our subscribers, we appreciate your patience while we negotiated on your behalf,” YouTube said in a statement.
An interesting addition here is that the statement says the deal “will enable more user choice in the future.” While it is unclear what exactly is meant by this, it is possible that YouTube TV may offer new plans/options in the future.
One of the purported hurdles in agreeing a deal was the price, with YouTube previously suggesting that a new agreement would likely result in higher costs for consumers. It currently remains unclear whether consumers can now expect any additional costs as a result of the new agreement.
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