NBCUniversal’s New Deal Brings YouTube TV, Peacock and Sports Together
▼ Summary
– NBCUniversal and YouTube TV have reached a multi-year agreement to carry NBCUniversal’s full portfolio of networks, including NBC, Bravo, and MSNBC.
– The NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) will relaunch later this fall and be available on YouTube TV, offering a range of sports programming.
– Peacock will become available as a subscription through YouTube Primetime Channels in the coming months.
– The deal includes a long-term agreement for NBCUniversal’s short-form clips, highlights, and shows on YouTube.
– Universal Pictures films and NBCUniversal TV shows will remain available for purchase or rental on Google TV, YouTube TV, and YouTube.
Navigating the future of television requires strategic partnerships, and a new multi-year agreement between NBCUniversal and YouTube TV represents a significant step in bundling live sports, entertainment, and streaming services. This collaboration ensures subscribers won’t lose access to popular channels while expanding the reach of NBCUniversal’s content across Google’s ecosystem.
While the financial specifics remain confidential, the arrangement encompasses several key components. A multi-year carriage deal guarantees that YouTube TV will continue offering NBCUniversal’s entire network lineup. This includes flagship channels like NBC, Telemundo, Bravo, CNBC, and MSNBC, alongside entertainment staples such as USA Network, Syfy, and E!.
A major development is the planned revival of the NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) later this autumn. After being shuttered for four years, the channel will make a comeback on YouTube TV, providing a dedicated home for a wide array of sports programming. This relaunched network will work in tandem with the sports content already broadcast on the main NBC channel, offering fans more comprehensive coverage.
The partnership also significantly boosts the presence of NBCUniversal’s streaming service. Peacock will soon be available as a subscription option directly within YouTube’s Primetime Channels, making it more accessible to a broader audience. Furthermore, a multi-year extension ensures Peacock remains available on Google’s Android platforms, including Google Play and Google TV.
Content sharing extends to the YouTube platform itself, with a long-term agreement for short-form clips, highlights, and shows from NBCUniversal’s premium programming. Additionally, films and TV shows from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment will remain available for purchase or rental on Google TV, YouTube TV, and YouTube. Iconic library titles from NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution will also be accessible for streaming, available through YouTube Premium via subscription and on the free, ad-supported YouTube platform.
Industry analysis suggests this move allows NBCUniversal to monetize its sports content beyond its own Peacock streaming service. By reintroducing NBCSN within broader subscription packages like YouTube TV, the company can generate revenue from viewers who may not subscribe directly to Peacock, especially as it reorganizes its other cable network holdings.
(Source: The Verge)
