YouTube TV slammed as a 'scam' after rumors over 20 major channels are being removed
YouTube TV announced plans to drop 20+ channels, despite the platform's prices increasing.
More and more people have been ditching cable TV for streaming services like Netflix, Amazon and Disney to watch their favourite shows and sports.
And YouTube TV has become a popular choice for people looking to customise their viewing preferences without the hassle of handling several different subscriptions.
However, as we entered 2025, the Google-owned platform hit its eight million subscribers with quite an unreasonable price hike.
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The base plan for YouTube TV is jumping from $72.99 to $82.99 per month.
But higher prices could mean more watch options, right? Wrong.
YouTube TV is removing more than 20 channels due to a contractual dispute with Paramount+.
As a result, popular channels like MTV, CBS, Comedy Central, BET, and Nickelodeon will no longer be accessible on YouTube TV. Check out the full list below:
"YouTube TV is removing 20+ channels, including BET, Comedy Central, MTV, and CBS Sports, a month before March Madness due to a Paramount+ dispute," one X user announced.
"They’re also raising prices from $73 to $83/month."
Unsurprisingly, a lot of people are calling YouTube TV out for the decision.
“YouTube TV launched in 2017 for $35. Adjusted for inflation, that would presently be worth about $45. If you are a subscriber, you are being ripped off,” one said.
The streaming giant put out a statement saying they’ve reached a 'short-term extension' to keep Paramount channels on while they keep negotiating.
“YouTube TV subscribers continue to have access to Paramount channels, including CBS, and any recordings that are in their Library. We appreciate your patience as we continue to negotiate on your behalf,” the video-sharing platform said.
Justifying the price hike, the Google platform claimed: "We’ve been working hard to reach a fair agreement with Paramount that allows us to keep their channels, including CBS and CBS Sports, on YouTube TV without passing on additional costs to our subscribers.
"Unfortunately, despite our good faith negotiations, we haven’t been successful yet.”
Regardless, some X users are completely outraged, writing: "It’s such a scam. All of these companies suck".
Another added: "It’s way too expensive and offers little" and someone else sarcastically remarked: "$10 dollars more and I lose options??! Sign me up!"
But if a deal doesn’t happen soon, YouTube says they’ll offer subscribers 'an $8 credit' - which, let’s be honest, doesn’t really make up for losing major channels.
YouTube continued: “We’re still actively negotiating with Paramount and will keep you updated on our progress[..]
"You can still watch Paramount shows and movies by signing up for their streaming service, Paramount+, starting at $7.99 a month."