YouTube TV and NBCUniversal have agreed to a “short extension” that will keep more than a dozen channels on the streaming platform while talks continue.
Earlier this week, YouTube said it was on the verge of losing NBCU content over a carriage dispute. The deadline was September 30. The companies are now saying they have agreed to a short extension, one that will keep NBCU’s content on YouTube TV while negations continue.
NBCU gave a statement to Protocol outlining the decision.
YouTube TV, one of the biggest streaming TV platforms, is on the verge of losing NBCUniversal programming if a deal isn’t reached.
It’s not uncommon for streaming platforms to lose channels over disputes with the networks. The networks raise prices, or want streaming platforms to carry certain bundles, and negotiations often reach the breaking point.
According to DigitalTrends, YouTube TV could lose NBC, Bravo, CNBC, E!, Golf Channel, MSNBC, Oxygen, SYFY, Telemundo, The Olympic Channel, Universal Kids, Universo and USA Network if a deal isn’t reached by September 30.
YouTube says it is trying to reach an equitable agreement, but recommended users turn to NBC’s Peacock should the deal fall through.
If NBCU offers us equitable terms, we’ll renew our agreement with them. However, if we are unable to reach a deal by Thursday, the NBCU lineup of channels will no longer be available on YouTube TV and we will decrease our monthly price by $10, from $64.99 to $54.99 (while this content remains off our platform). You can sign up for NBC’s own direct-to-consumer streaming service, Peacock, which they offer for $4.99/month to continue watching NBCU content, such as Sunday Night Football.