YouTube TV is launching more than ten genre-specific channel packages in early 2026. The Google-owned company announced the move on Wednesday. This will mark the first time YouTube TV breaks up its cable-like channel bundle. The new packages are designed to give consumers more flexibility over the content they pay for.
The upcoming lineup includes a dedicated sports bundle. This package will provide access to all the major broadcasters, along with sports networks like FS1, NBC Sports Network, and all of the ESPN networks, including ESPN Unlimited. Customers will also be able to include add-ons such as NFL Sunday Ticket and RedZone. YouTube notes that users will still get access to popular features like unlimited DVR, multiview, key plays, and fantasy view.
While YouTube did not share the full list of upcoming bundles, the company confirmed there will be news, family, and entertainment packages. By adding these genre-specific plans, YouTube TV likely hopes to attract users who do not want to pay the full monthly price for content they do not watch. The current base plan costs $82.99 per month for live and on-demand content from major broadcasters and networks. Although the new smaller bundles will cost less, the company has not detailed specific pricing.
This move may also help retain subscribers who are tired of continuous price increases, as they could save money by selecting a more tailored subscription.
Christian Oestlien, YouTube VP and head of subscriptions, stated in a blog post that TV should be easy and give viewers greater control. He explained the goal is to let subscribers tailor their subscription with more options, whether they stick with the main plan, focus on sports, combine sports and news, or select a plan centered on family and entertainment.
The shift comes as other TV providers have launched lower-cost streaming packages focused on specific genres. For example, DirecTV offers genre packs for sports, entertainment, news, and kids’ content. Fubo TV launched a sports package in August. Sling TV has long advocated for and offered a la carte bundles as well.