Key Takeaways
- Deal Secured: Google’s YouTube TV and TelevisaUnivision have finalized a new multi-year distribution agreement.
- Channels Return: Popular Spanish-language networks, including Univision and UniMás, are being restored for all YouTube TV subscribers.
- Dispute Resolved: The deal ends a carriage dispute that caused the channels to go dark for subscribers at the end of September.
- Expanded Access: The networks will be available on both the standard YouTube TV base plan and the dedicated Spanish plan.
After a brief blackout that left viewers without access, YouTube TV and TelevisaUnivision have announced a new multi-year agreement, immediately restoring popular Spanish-language channels to the streaming platform.
The deal resolves a recent carriage dispute that saw key networks like Univision and UniMás disappear from the service at the end of September. The successful negotiations mean that subscribers can once again enjoy the broadcaster’s full portfolio of news, entertainment, and sports programming.
An End to the Standoff
Carriage disputes are common in the media industry, typically arising when distributors and content providers cannot agree on the fees paid to carry specific channels. When negotiations fail, it often results in a “blackout,” where channels are temporarily removed from a service, leaving subscribers caught in the middle.
This was the case for YouTube TV customers who lost access to TelevisaUnivision’s U.S. networks. The resolution brings relief to many households, particularly those who rely on the broadcaster for essential news and culturally relevant entertainment.
What’s Included in the New Deal
Under the terms of the new pact, TelevisaUnivision’s entire suite of U.S. channels will be reinstated. This includes flagship networks such as:
- Univision
- UniMás
- Galavisión
- TUDN
A significant aspect of the agreement is the expanded access for subscribers. The channels will now be part of both the standard English-language base plan and the dedicated “Spanish Plan,” ensuring the content reaches the widest possible audience on the platform.
A Win for Spanish-Language Media
The swift resolution underscores the importance of Spanish-language content in the competitive U.S. streaming market. For YouTube TV, restoring TelevisaUnivision’s programming is crucial for retaining and attracting a large segment of the viewing public. For TelevisaUnivision, the deal ensures its content remains accessible on one of the country’s largest live TV streaming services.
Ultimately, the renewed partnership is a positive development for viewers, who can now resume watching their favorite novelas, news broadcasts, and live soccer matches without interruption.
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