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Does YouTube TV Have Paramount+? The Definitive Answer

The short, sweet, and to-the-point answer is: No, YouTube TV does not directly include Paramount+ in its base subscription package. You won’t find Paramount+ content seamlessly integrated within the YouTube TV interface. However, don’t despair! There are still ways to access the mountain of entertainment that Paramount+ offers while enjoying the convenience of YouTube TV. We’ll explore these options in detail.

Unpacking the Streaming Landscape: YouTube TV and Paramount+

To understand why this is the case, it’s important to recognize the competitive landscape of the streaming world. YouTube TV, owned by Google, is a live TV streaming service aiming to replace traditional cable. Paramount+, owned by Paramount Global, is a dedicated streaming service focusing on on-demand content from Paramount’s vast library, including CBS, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, and Paramount Pictures.

These are distinct entities with their own subscription models. Think of it like buying groceries: YouTube TV provides the “staples” of live TV channels, while Paramount+ offers a specialized “spice rack” of on-demand entertainment. You can certainly enjoy both, but you need to acquire them separately.

Bridging the Gap: How to Watch Paramount+ with YouTube TV

While not directly included, there are practical ways to access Paramount+ alongside your YouTube TV subscription:

Subscribe Separately: The most straightforward method is to subscribe to Paramount+ independently of YouTube TV. You can do this directly through the Paramount+ website or app. This gives you full access to all Paramount+ content, accessible through its dedicated app.
Bundle with Other Services: Keep an eye out for bundle deals! Sometimes, wireless providers or other services offer promotions that include Paramount+ at a discounted rate. This can be a cost-effective way to access both YouTube TV and Paramount+.
Utilize Free Trials: Paramount+ frequently offers free trial periods for new subscribers. Take advantage of these trials to explore the platform’s content and see if a subscription is right for you. This allows you to dip your toes in the water without committing to a full subscription immediately.

Exploring the Content Powerhouses: What Each Platform Offers

Understanding the strengths of both platforms will help you make an informed decision about how to combine them.

YouTube TV: Live TV Reimagined

YouTube TV shines in its live TV offerings. It provides a comprehensive selection of popular cable channels, including news, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. Its key features include:

Live Sports: A major draw for many, offering access to networks like ESPN, Fox Sports, CBS Sports, and more, depending on your local affiliate.
Unlimited DVR: A significant advantage, allowing you to record an unlimited amount of content and watch it later.
Multiple Streams: Supports simultaneous streaming on multiple devices, perfect for households with diverse viewing habits.
Local Channels: Offers access to local broadcast channels like ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox, depending on your location.

Paramount+: On-Demand Entertainment Galore

Paramount+ focuses on on-demand content from Paramount’s iconic brands. It boasts a library of:

Original Series: High-quality original shows like “Star Trek: Picard,” “Halo,” “1923,” and “Mayor of Kingstown.”
Movies: A vast library of films from Paramount Pictures, including classics and recent releases.
Live Sports (Select Plans): Some Paramount+ plans include live CBS sports events, such as NFL games and Champions League soccer.
Children’s Programming: A wealth of content for kids from Nickelodeon and other children’s networks.

Making the Right Choice: Is Paramount+ Worth Adding?

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to subscribe to Paramount+ alongside YouTube TV depends on your individual viewing preferences. If you’re a fan of Star Trek, CBS dramas, Nickelodeon shows, or Paramount movies, then Paramount+ is likely a valuable addition. Consider the cost and weigh it against the content you’ll actually watch. Free trials are an excellent way to test the waters!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to help you better understand the relationship between YouTube TV and Paramount+:

1. Can I bundle YouTube TV and Paramount+ together for a discounted price?

No, currently there is no official bundled discount directly offered by YouTube TV for subscribing to Paramount+. You’ll need to subscribe to each service separately. Keep an eye out for third-party bundle deals from other providers that might include both.

2. Does the YouTube TV “Sports Plus” add-on include any Paramount+ content?

No, the “Sports Plus” add-on for YouTube TV focuses exclusively on sports channels and does not include any content from Paramount+. It typically includes channels like NFL RedZone, beIN SPORTS, and others.

3. Is there a way to watch live CBS through YouTube TV without Paramount+?

Yes, YouTube TV includes access to your local CBS affiliate (where available), allowing you to watch live CBS broadcasts. However, this is different from the on-demand content and exclusive programming available on Paramount+.

4. Can I access Paramount+ through the YouTube TV interface?

No, you cannot directly access Paramount+ content through the YouTube TV app or website. You’ll need to use the dedicated Paramount+ app.

5. Does YouTube TV offer a free trial of Paramount+?

YouTube TV itself doesn’t typically offer a free trial of Paramount+. However, Paramount+ often provides free trials for new subscribers directly through their website or app. Check the Paramount+ website for current promotions.

6. What devices are compatible with both YouTube TV and Paramount+?

Both YouTube TV and Paramount+ are widely compatible with a variety of devices, including smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Roku, etc.), streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast), smartphones (iOS and Android), tablets, and computers.

7. If I subscribe to Paramount+ through my Google account, does that mean it’s integrated with YouTube TV?

No, subscribing to Paramount+ through your Google account only simplifies the billing process. It doesn’t automatically integrate Paramount+ with your YouTube TV account. You’ll still need to access Paramount+ through its dedicated app.

8. Does YouTube TV have plans to include Paramount+ in the future?

While anything is possible, there are no current announcements or indications that YouTube TV will include Paramount+ in its base package in the near future. The streaming landscape is constantly evolving, so it’s worth staying informed about potential future partnerships.

9. What are the different Paramount+ subscription plans available?

Paramount+ offers various subscription plans, typically with different tiers based on ad-supported viewing and access to live CBS. Check the Paramount+ website for the most up-to-date pricing and features of each plan.

10. Can I watch Paramount+ offline?

Yes, the Paramount+ Premium plan allows you to download select content for offline viewing. This is a great feature for travel or situations with limited internet access.

11. How do I cancel my Paramount+ subscription?

You can cancel your Paramount+ subscription through the platform you used to subscribe, whether it’s directly through the Paramount+ website, the Google Play Store, or the Apple App Store. The process will vary slightly depending on the platform.

12. Are there any parental control options for Paramount+?

Yes, Paramount+ offers parental control features that allow you to restrict content based on ratings. You can create profiles for different users and set viewing restrictions accordingly.

In conclusion, while YouTube TV doesn’t directly include Paramount+, accessing both is entirely feasible and can significantly expand your entertainment options. By understanding the strengths of each platform and exploring the different subscription methods, you can create a streaming setup that perfectly suits your needs.