YouTube TV plans to introduce compact selections of live television channels in 2026, featuring a dedicated sports option that encompasses all ESPN networks.
Over 10 such specialized, category-focused packages will arrive on the platform next year. Currently, however, the company has shared limited specifics on the sports option, with no information disclosed on the remaining packages or their costs.
In addition to ESPN, ESPN Unlimited, and various other ESPN outlets, the YouTube TV Sports Plan will include channels like FS1 and NBC Sports Network.
Users can opt for extras such as NFL Sunday Ticket and RedZone, similar to options available on the standard YouTube TV plan. Features including unlimited DVR storage, multiview capabilities, key plays highlights, and fantasy sports integration will remain accessible.
"Television viewing ought to be straightforward, empowering audiences to decide their preferred content. We aim to provide subscribers with enhanced customization through additional choices," stated Christian Oestlien, executive for YouTube TV subscriptions, in an official remark. "Options range from the core YouTube TV subscription offering over 100 channels, to sports-centric selections, blends of sports and news, or family-oriented entertainment plans, enabling members to select the most suitable configuration effortlessly."
Oestlien indicated that further announcements on these streamlined offerings will follow shortly, emphasizing that "numerous enhancements await YouTube TV users in the coming year."
Although no costs have been specified for the new compact packages, they are expected to undercut the $82.99 monthly fee of the primary YouTube TV subscription.
This expansion into targeted bundles aligns with the growing demand for affordable, streamlined streaming options. Providers like DirecTV, Fubo, and Sling already deliver customized packages incorporating local stations, sports channels, news outlets, and entertainment networks, letting customers decide which groupings to subscribe to.
A notable development this summer involved the debut of ESPN Unlimited, aggregating every ESPN sports channel into tiers beginning at $30 per month. Concurrently, Fox introduced its Fox One assortment covering sports, news, and entertainment programming.
One proposed sports-focused package that failed to launch was Venu Sports, a collaboration between Disney, Fox, and Warner Brothers, intended to combine ESPN, FS1, BTN, TNT, TBS, and additional leading sports channels.
Venu Sports encountered significant obstacles, such as litigation from Fubo and a court-ordered block, prompting its creators to abandon the project prior to its rollout.
This report forms part of TechHive's comprehensive analysis of premier live TV streaming platforms.