Can You Add ESPN+ to YouTube TV? The Straight Dope from a Streaming Veteran

The short answer, delivered with the authority of someone who’s seen it all in the streaming wars? No, you cannot directly add ESPN+ as an add-on subscription within YouTube TV. They are separate, competing services, and their business models don’t currently allow for such bundling.

Understanding the Landscape: Why No ESPN+ on YouTube TV?

Let’s be clear: The streaming world is a battlefield. Big players vie for your eyeballs and your subscription dollars. While bundling might seem logical from a consumer perspective (one bill, one app, less hassle), the reality is often dictated by competition and control. Here’s a breakdown of why adding ESPN+ directly to YouTube TV isn’t in the cards right now:

• Direct Competition: YouTube TV and ESPN+ both offer live sports, although with significant differences in content. YouTube TV carries major broadcast networks like ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU, offering access to flagship events. ESPN+, on the other hand, provides a broader, more niche selection of sports, including exclusive college games, international competitions, and original content. Allowing seamless integration essentially cannibalizes each other’s potential subscribers.

• Control of the Customer Relationship: Both Disney (which owns ESPN+) and Google (which owns YouTube TV) want to own the direct relationship with you, the subscriber. Integration means ceding some control over billing, data, and marketing opportunities. They prefer you subscribe directly through their platforms.

• Revenue Sharing Complexities: Bundling would require complex revenue-sharing agreements, which can be difficult to negotiate and potentially less profitable for one or both parties. Who gets what cut when a subscriber uses both platforms? That becomes a legal and financial quagmire.

• Strategic Differentiation: ESPN+ is positioned as a supplemental streaming service, designed to complement traditional cable or streaming packages like YouTube TV. This allows ESPN to reach a wider audience without disrupting its existing broadcast partnerships.

The Alternatives: How to Get Both ESPN+ and YouTube TV

While direct integration is a no-go, you can absolutely enjoy both services. Here’s the game plan:

• Separate Subscriptions: The most straightforward approach. Simply subscribe to both YouTube TV and ESPN+ independently. This gives you full access to both platforms.

• The Disney Bundle: Consider the Disney Bundle, which includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ at a discounted rate. If you’re already interested in Disney+ or Hulu, this is a cost-effective way to add ESPN+ to your entertainment arsenal. Keep in mind that you would still subscribe to YouTube TV separately.

• Accessing ESPN+ Through the ESPN App: Regardless of how you subscribe to ESPN+, you’ll primarily access its content through the ESPN app. This app is available on most streaming devices, smart TVs, and mobile devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ESPN+ and YouTube TV

Here are some common questions that people have regarding ESPN+ and YouTube TV, answered with the wisdom of a seasoned streaming enthusiast:

1. What Channels Are Included with YouTube TV?

YouTube TV typically includes major broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, as well as popular cable channels like ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, TNT, TBS, CNN, MSNBC, and more. Channel lineups can vary by location, so check the official YouTube TV website for your specific area.

2. What Kind of Content Does ESPN+ Offer That Isn’t on YouTube TV?

This is where ESPN+ shines. It offers a deep dive into specific sports and events. Think exclusive college games (across various conferences), international soccer (like Bundesliga, La Liga), UFC Fight Nights, Top Rank Boxing, PGA Tour Live coverage, Grand Slam tennis events, and a wealth of original documentaries and studio shows. YouTube TV offers the main ESPN channels, but ESPN+ gives you more.

3. How Much Does ESPN+ Cost?

ESPN+ typically costs around $10.99 per month, or $109.99 per year. Pricing is subject to change, so always confirm the current price on the ESPN+ website. The Disney Bundle, which includes ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu, is usually a better value if you’re interested in all three services.

4. Can I Watch ESPN+ on My TV?

Absolutely. The ESPN app is available on most smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV), and game consoles (like PlayStation and Xbox). You can also stream it on your computer or mobile device.

5. Does YouTube TV Have 4K Streaming?

Yes, YouTube TV offers 4K streaming for some live and on-demand content, but it requires an additional add-on subscription, or you can purchase the Entertainment Plus add-on which also includes HBO Max and SHOWTIME in addition to 4K. The availability of 4K content is constantly expanding.

6. Can I Record Games on YouTube TV?

Yes, one of the best features of YouTube TV is its unlimited cloud DVR. You can record as many shows and games as you want, and they’ll be stored for up to nine months.

7. Does YouTube TV Offer a Free Trial?

YouTube TV often offers free trials to new subscribers. The length of the trial period can vary, so check the YouTube TV website for the latest offers.

8. Is YouTube TV Available Everywhere?

YouTube TV is available throughout the United States. However, local channel availability may vary depending on your location.

9. Can I Cancel YouTube TV or ESPN+ Anytime?

Yes, both YouTube TV and ESPN+ are subscription services that can be canceled at any time without penalty. You’ll typically retain access until the end of your current billing cycle.

10. What Internet Speed Do I Need for YouTube TV and ESPN+?

For a smooth streaming experience, it’s recommended to have an internet speed of at least 25 Mbps. For 4K streaming, a faster connection (40 Mbps or more) is ideal.

11. Are There Any Other Streaming Services That Include ESPN+?

Currently, there are no other streaming services that directly integrate ESPN+ as an add-on in the same way that you might add HBO or Showtime. The Disney Bundle remains the primary way to get ESPN+ at a discounted rate alongside other Disney-owned services.

12. Will YouTube TV Ever Add ESPN+?

Never say never, but it’s unlikely in the foreseeable future. Given the competitive landscape and the strategic positioning of both services, a direct integration seems improbable. However, the streaming landscape is constantly evolving, so things could always change. Keep an eye on future announcements from both companies.

The Verdict: Separate But Still Accessible

While the dream of adding ESPN+ directly to your YouTube TV subscription remains just that – a dream – it doesn’t prevent you from enjoying both services. By subscribing separately or opting for the Disney Bundle, you can access a wealth of sports content and entertainment. Just remember to navigate between the YouTube TV and ESPN apps to get the full experience. Happy streaming!