YouTube TV and NBCUniversal have now agreed a deal ensuring that none of the channels included with a subscription are dropped. Over the past week, the future of a number of NBCU channels remained uncertain. However, with the new deal having now been agreed, subscribers can rest assured their subscription will not be impacted either in terms of the channel lineup or the price.
Earlier in the week, YouTube confirmed that it was in negotiations with NBCUniversal over a number of channels, including NBC, NBCSN, Bravo, Golf, Syfy, and USA, among others. At the time, YouTube made it clear that the two had been unable to reach an agreement and that the existing contract was due to come to an end at midnight on Thursday. Shortly before that deadline, they were able to agree on a short extension to avoid a channel blackout. However, it remained unclear how long the extension was for or whether it would lead to a new deal.
YouTube has confirmed that a deal is now done, bringing an end to the situation. The agreement means that subscribers won’t be impacted in any further way, with the channel lineup remaining the same. The announcement goes on to further explain that there won’t be any change to the price either, with the monthly cost of the subscription remaining at $64.99 per month.
“We’re thrilled to share that we’ve reached a deal to continue carrying the full NBCUniversal portfolio of channels. That means you won’t lose access to any of their channels, and YouTube TV will continue to offer 85+ networks for $64.99. We appreciate NBCUniversal’s willingness to work toward an agreement, and we also appreciate your patience as we negotiated with them on your behalf.”
YouTube
Previously, YouTube had suggested that the inability to agree a new deal was the result of an increase in pricing to what YouTube viewed as an unfair level. The company had also previously stated that if the channels were removed, the cost of the subscription would be reduced by $10 to $54.99 per month. While further details on the agreement were not provided, it seems the two were eventually able to agree to a deal which doesn’t force YouTube TV to increase the price subscribers pay each month. Likewise, force subscribers to consider switching live TV services to keep access to the channels they want.
