What are the channels being dropped from YouTube TV? All you need to know

YouTube TV, the subscription-based service that started out as a pocket-friendly solution to cable service, is reportedly facing a bit of difficulty with increasing costs and problematic network conflicts. As original programming has created a persistent struggle between networks and platforms, YouTube TV is facing difficulties in maintaining and running a streaming service.

According to Android Police, as cited by Tech Times, Netflix, which once depended on licensed content, shifted to investing in original content, which freed the platform from the grip of the big studios that controlled the entertainment industry, helping Netflix maintain ownership of its library. Eventually, the model that Netflix created was followed by the platform's rivals, such as Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Apple TV+.

While early programming is always crucial, streaming services still need to have access to well-established networks, and that is when services like YouTube TV face immense difficulties. YouTube TV has lately been dealing with negotiation challenges, first with Fox and now with NBCUniversal.

NBCUniversal's contract with YouTube TV will end on September 30, 2025, after which the network might have to remove its content from YouTube TV. While it has nothing to do with access, the primary question is in regard to pricing. As network licensing fees have risen radically, YouTube TV will try to reduce renewal prices. Depending on how the negotiations turn out, there could be a possibility that subscribers might lose certain NBCUniversal channels.

As things are not confirmed yet, NBCUniversal channels such as Bravo, USA Network, and NBC could be dropped from YouTube TV. While NBCUniversal's contract with YouTube TV will run out in September, Disney's contract is ending in October 2025. It could be a difficult moment for Disney, as they recently announced another price increase for their own service.

YouTube TV and NBCUniversal continue negotiations

Negotiations continue between NBCUniversal and YouTube TV so that channels like Bravo, NBC, and USA Network continue to be a part of the service. An NBCUniversal spokesperson, in a recent statement, said:

"YouTube TV has refused the best rates and terms in the market, demanding preferential treatment and seeking an unfair advantage over competitors to dominate the video marketplace - all under the false pretense of fighting for the consumer."

While YouTube, in a statement, said:

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"NBCUniversal is asking us to pay more than what they charge consumers for the same content on Peacock, which would mean less flexibility and higher prices for our subscribers."

YouTube stated that it would provide a $10-a-month credit in case subscribers lose NBC channels.

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