Google launched YouTube TV in a select few U.S. cities for $35 per month back in 2017. Every year since then, the company has added more channels while also increasing the monthly subscription price. The first price increase bumped the cost to $40 per month, and the second price increase raised prices to $50 per month last year. Now, the service is seeing its biggest price hike yet: Up $15/month to now $65 per month.

As with every other price bump, Google is adding a bunch of new channels to YouTube TV. Whether you like these channels or not, you will now be paying for them. The channels include Viacom channels such as BET, CMT, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Network, TV Land, and VH1. BET Her, MTV2, MTV Classic, Nick Jr., NickToons, and TeenNick will be added later as well.

YouTube TV launched with around 50 channels and the list has grown to over 85. It's not unreasonable to raise the prices for more content, but the price hikes only feel acceptable when the channels that have been added are ones that people have been asking for, are part of an optional package, or undercut competition live TV packages. With this price change, YouTube TV is starting to feel like just another cable TV package. People don't like to pay for channels they won't watch, and the more channels that are added the more people feel they're paying too much. $65 per month is tough to swallow if you only care about a handful of channels.

The new price goes into effect today for new YouTube TV subscribers and existing customers will see the new price on bills after July 30th. Google did acknowledge that this is a considerable price jump and it's “working to build new flexible models for YouTube TV users, so we can continue to provide a robust and innovative experience for everyone in your household without the commitments of traditional TV.” No further details were given, though.

Hulu with Live TV costs $55/month, AT&T TV Now starts at $55/month, Sling TV costs $45/month, and FuboTV costs $55/month, so there are definitely other options out there. Will you be paying $65 per month for YouTube TV?


Source: Google | Via: 9to5Google