YouTube wants to be the definitive live TV destination for cord cutters, and its newest “YouTube TV” platform makes a compelling argument.
For $35 a month, you and five other users can view 40 broadcast and cable channels from the comforts of the largest video sharing site in the world. The new feature is available on both mobile and desktop today in five markets: New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Philadelphia.
A few of the confirmed channels include ABC, CBS, ESPN, FX, USA, Disney, Bravo, and MSNBC. Access to YouTube Red is free, while channels like Showtime and Fox Soccer Plus will require those all-too-familiar additional fees.
YouTube is including a neat cloud-based DVR feature that lets users record as many shows as they want, and keep them for up to nine months.
If you want to watch TV on an actual TV, you’ll need to purchase from Alphabet again (or dig up an HDMI cord). For now, the only TV streaming device compatible with the new platform is its very own Chromecast. Make sure you check if your device doesn’t already have Chromecast built-in before making a purchase. The company did say it would support more streaming devices later this year but did not provide specifics.
YouTube offers a one-month free trial of YouTube TV, and you can cancel your membership at any time if you do start paying. Early adopters may be lucky enough to receive a free Chromecast after their first payment.
Here is a graphic with all confirmed and upcoming channels:
There are some notable omissions, including CNN, Adult Swim, and TBS. If you’re trying to evaluate a YouTube TV subscription versus another streaming service, our best advice is to consider the channels you watch regularly and compare the content provided by each streaming service.