Over the weekend, Disney and YouTube TV finally ended the two-week blackout returning ESPN, ABC and other Disney-owned channels to Google’s streaming service. The deal not only gets ESPN back on YTTV but also hints at a future where Google offers specific package offerings.
Disney’s announcement of the multiyear distribution agreement included a very curious line:
“Select networks to be included in various genre-specific packages.”
“Select networks to be included in various genre-specific packages.”
Disney announcement on YouTube TV deal
Earlier this year, 9to5Google reported that YTTV was considering a “Sports & Broadcast” package during negotiations with Fox Media.. At the time, it would have directly affected Fox and its media channels, including FS1 and Fox News.
Disney suggesting or wanting channel packages is a surprising switch, considering the company sued Sling TV over its “Passes” that offer access to live channels for a short period of time over monthly subscriptions. Though the YTTV blackout may have changed the media giant’s mind, with one Fox Business report claiming it was losing $30 million a week as the blackout continued.
Channels packages
YouTube TV is pricey, currently costing $82.99, so a series of “genre-specific” channel packages could be a way for subscribers to pay a little less, especially for sports fans. Currently, the service offers access to a lot of broadcast sports channels like ESPN, FS1, and NBC.
The service also offers a few add-ons; it’s the only way to watch NFL Sunday Ticket games, for example. Starting this week, it will be the first way to watch the new NBC Sports Network channel.
Tom’s Guide has reached out to Google for comment and were told that the company has nothing to share at this time.
Meanwhile, YouTube TV began offering a $20 credit during the blackout to affected customers. Existing subscribers can still claim it through December 9.
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