YouTube TV is predicted to become the largest pay-TV operator in the United States by 2027. If proven correct, this will see YouTube TV overtake Charter and Comcast in the process.
Key Takeaways
- Omdia predicts YouTube TV will surpass Charter and Comcast to become the largest U.S. pay-TV operator by 2027.
- This would mark the first time a virtual pay-TV provider, rather than a traditional cable company, holds the top position.
- The prediction is based on YouTube TV’s continual subscriber growth combined with the expectation Charter and Comcast will continue to lose subscribers.
YouTube TV is set to redefine the US television landscape, according to the latest forecasts from Omdia. The technology research and advisory group expects YouTube TV to become the largest pay-TV operator in the U.S. by as soon as 2027.
This would not only mark a major milestone for YouTube TV but it would also mark the first time that a virtual pay-TV provider has claimed the top position in the market.
“For the first time in US television history, the largest pay-TV operator will be a virtual provider,” said Maria Rua Aguete, Head of Media and Entertainment at Omdia.
Omdia is basing its prediction on YouTube TV’s rapid growth so far coupled with the expectation that Charter and Comcast will continue to lose subscribers.
Although YouTube itself has only reported surpassing eight million subscribers, that was back in early 2024. Since then, multiple third parties have suggested the current number of YouTube TV members is more than 10 million.
According to Omdia‘s own analysis, the number of YouTube TV subscribers currently (end of 2025) stands at 9.3 million. Also according to the company, this compares to 11.4 million Charter subscribers and 10.6 million Comcast subscribers.
By 2017, Omdia expects YouTube TV’s subscriber base to have increased to around 10.4 million. By the same time, Charter’s subscriber base is expected to have declined to 10 million, and Comcast’s to have dropped to 9.2 million subscribers.
Another reason Omdia expects YouTube TV to rise to the top is its newer and more premium approach to streaming in general.
“YouTube TV has evolved into a full pay-TV bundle, integrating linear channels, premium networks, and marquee sports properties such as NFL Sunday Ticket. This is not just another streaming service; it is the new face of US pay TV,” added Maria Rua Aguete.
The prediction follows confirmation earlier this week that YouTube TV plans to roll out more than 10 genre-themed plans early next year, including a dedicated sports package.
The arrival of these new, skinnier live TV packages are likely to further help YouTube TV attract new members and grow its overall subscriber base.
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